Shireen Razey Awarded OBE in King’s Birthday Honours 2024 for Exceptional Service to Education and Social Mobility 

Her courage, strategic vision, and operational acumen have been pivotal in the expansion of CTK, including the successful turnaround of two failing institutions in Sidcup and Brockley. Under her leadership, these institutions have transformed into thriving academic and vocational sixth forms within a diverse and inclusive community. 

Shireen’s tenure at CTK has been marked by her dedication to students from under-represented and disadvantaged backgrounds, many of whom are in receipt of free school meals and sixth form bursaries. Through her commitment and dedication, these students have consistently achieved higher education progression rates that surpass national sixth form college averages, with many being the first in their families to attend university. 

Chair of Governors, Nana Reynier, said: “I am thrilled to extend my congratulations to Shireen on being awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE). This prestigious honour is a testament to Shireen’s outstanding contributions and unwavering dedication. Her achievements have truly made a significant impact, and this recognition is well-deserved’. 

Shireen’s transformative impact extends beyond academic achievements. Shireen’s emotional intelligence and compassionate leadership have strengthened the college community, staff and student wellbeing are central to her beliefs. Her passion and commitment to community engagement and social impact is evident through numerous projects that encourage both staff and students to serve their communities, fostering strong social and moral consciences. The College’s highly successful Christmas Gift Appeal, and Acts of Charity Days are just two examples. 

In addition to her role at CTK, Shireen’s leadership is recognised through her numerous voluntary roles in education and supporting others including, Chair of Governors at Oakwood Park Grammar School and Vice-Chair of St Benedict’s Catholic Academy Trust. Her unwavering passion for educational leadership and her strategic approach to inclusivity and social mobility have left an indelible mark on the education sector. 

Shireen Razey said: “I am immensely proud and humbled to receive this award. Since studying for my A Levels in a Further Education College, teaching has been my calling. The compassion and support I was shown transformed me as an individual, my teachers had huge belief in my ability and inspired me to enter the teaching profession. I am truly honoured to receive this OBE and it is recognition of all the work that colleagues do to ensure students reach their full potential, often overcoming significant life challenges. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to work with so many fantastic students who make my job so rewarding and worthwhile every day. I have been blessed with the exceptional team of staff and colleagues that I have worked with and the great networks that have supported me. My husband and son give me huge strength and tremendous support and I know my late parents would be immensely proud of my nomination.” 

Dr. Molly Makota, Chief Financial and Resources Officer at CTK, said: “Shireen Razey’s dedication and leadership have been nothing short of inspirational. Her vision and strategic approach have transformed Christ the King Sixth Forms into a beacon of excellence and inclusivity. Shireen’s commitment to social mobility and her ability to create an environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed are truly commendable. This OBE is a well-deserved recognition of her remarkable contributions to education and her tireless efforts to uplift our community. We are immensely proud of her achievements and honored to have her leading our institution.” 

At the pinnacle of her career, this honour rightly acknowledges her significant achievements and ongoing dedication to transforming lives through education.