Education sector pays tribute to the Queen

The education sector has paid tribute to the Queen, following her passing on 7th September, at 96 years old.

Serving as head of state for more than 70 years, Queen Elizabeth II was the longest-reigning monarch, serving as for more than 70 years.

Education secretary Kit Malthouse said: "I offer my deepest condolences to The King and Royal Family upon the sad death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. The entire nation will mourn with them as we contemplate her remarkable reign.

"Throughout her long life, Her Majesty’s devotion to public service has been an inspiration, and her wisdom and strength have often provided solace to people in times of darkness, most recently during the pandemic.

“While her majesty’s passing is a source of profound sadness we should also celebrate the extraordinary period in British history over which she reigned. Like so many I feel privileged and lucky to have lived through the second Elizabethan age.

“By her grace and dignity Her Majesty touched the lives of millions and she will live on in our hearts. Long live the King.”

Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said: “The Queen’s dedication to public service has been an inspiration to children and adults alike over the past 70 years.

“We are deeply saddened by her death. She will be hugely missed by the nation, including all those in the world of education, where many people will have fond memories of the [Platinum] Jubilee and other royal events during her reign.

“Through her dignity and unswerving sense of duty, the Queen has set an extraordinary example to us all, and she has been a reassuring presence through many turbulent times. We pay tribute to her and we send our deepest sympathies to her family.”

Paul Whiteman, the general secretary of the NAHT school leaders’ union,  said: “This is a terribly sad time for the Royal Family and the nation. Queen Elizabeth has been a constant in all of our lives. Her service to the nation cannot be underestimated and will never be forgotten.”

He said: ”Throughout her long life, Her Majesty’s devotion to public service has been an inspiration, and her wisdom and strength have often provided solace to people in times of darkness, most recently during the pandemic.

“While her majesty’s passing is a source of profound sadness we should also celebrate the extraordinary period in British history over which she reigned. Like so many I feel privileged and lucky to have lived through the second Elizabethan age.

“By her grace and dignity Her Majesty touched the lives of millions and she will live on in our hearts. Long live the King.”

Leora Cruddas, chief executive of the Confederation of School Trusts, said: “A life in service. Our head of state, the monarch, a wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Our thoughts are with the Royal Family.”

The chief executive of the Chartered College of Teaching, Dame Alison Peacock, said: “So sad to hear of the passing of our wonderful Queen. What a wonderfully inspirational, warm leader. It was a total honour to meet her and to spend time with her. Bless you Ma’am.”

A statement from the Education and Training Foundation and the Society of Education and Training said: “On behalf of everyone at the Education and Training Foundation and the Society of Education and Training, we offer our deepest condolences to the whole Royal Family. Her Majesty’s contribution to the nation has been unrivalled during her lifetime, and she has been a figurehead for the UK and the Commonwealth during a period of enormous change. The ETF wishes to place on record our appreciation for the Queen’s extraordinary life of dedicated public service.”