Penny's date with the Queen

Penny was amazed to be named in this year's New Year's Honours List for her services to education.

It topped an amazing 18 months after she won the accolade of Teaching Assistant of the Year at the National Teaching Awards in October 2002.

She has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to the profession and in particular her work in raising the profile, prospects and training of teaching assistants.

Penny said after her trip to London: "Collecting the MBE from Her Majesty The Queen herself was really special. We had a fantastic time at the Palace and continued the celebrations by having lunch at the Savoy Hotel in London."

Since winning the Teaching Award Penny has acted as a consultant for educational bodies in redefining the role of the teaching assistant and creating a professional career structure for the post, as well as continuing her hard work at the High. She has also completed a degree in education.

Headteacher Mike Conn said: "We are absolutely thrilled for Penny and I cannot think of a more deserving person."

She is pictured at the Palace with proud husband Glyn and children Tegan and Bryn.