Sir's going to knight school!

Oct 26 2006 By Steve Johnson, Birmingham Mail

A SANDWELL head teacher today told of his excitement and nervousness ahead of a ceremony to make him a knight of the realm.

Mark Grundy, head teacher of Shireland Language College and Sixth Form Centre in Smethwick, will kneel before the Queen at Buckingham Palace on November 2.

The ceremony comes after he was named in the Birthday Honours list for his contributions to education and ICT.

Since he became Shireland's head ten years ago, the proportion of GCSE students getting five or more A*-C grades has jumped from 24 per cent to 61 per cent.

Three years ago he also took up the post of chief executive of George Salter High School, in West Bromwich. The school's GCSE results have increased from 15 per cent to 65 per cent A*-C grades.

Mark, who will be accompanied by his family, said: "I am looking forward tremendously to going to the Palace but I have to admit to one or two butterflies."

"You get a couple of minutes to chat with the Queen and I'm working on what I am going to say.

"I'd love to tell her about the enthusiasm and dedication of our students, staff, governors and our very special community. The award is not just for me but for everyone I have worked with to raise standards and give children the best possible start in life."

He will be supported by a group of staff and students on his trip to London.

Sandwell Council's cabinet member for schools and lifelong learning, Coun Ian Jones, said "I congratulate Mark on his tremendous achievement. It is an honour for the entire borough."

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