Sybil Hanson - June
For over 50 years Sybil has made a significant contribution to education in Coventry. Having begun her teaching career in 1961, she came to the City in 1972 where she spent 25 years at Blue Coat CE School, initially as Head of Mathematics before being appointed Deputy Head in 1977.
Since her retirement in 1997, Sybil has continued to make a significant contribution to education in the City, including, but not limited, to her appointment on the Board of Directors for the Inspire Education Trust. A Multi-Academy Trust covering local primary schools within Coventry, it aims to ensure each child receives a first-class education, in order to identify their capabilities and talents so that they can strive for excellence and succeed in the next stages of education and the world of work.
Sybil was also a well-respected member of the Diocesan Board of Education, having only recently stepped down as its Vice Chair. She represented the DBE as a co-opted member on Coventry City Council’s Education & Children’s Services Scrutiny Board 2 for over 15 years, to which she has contributed fully, including being on several task and finish groups, most recently on Partnership Working in Children’s Services and another on Autism, which have identified recommendations to improve the lives of children and their families in the city. Additionally, she continues to chair The Coventry Schools Forum which she has done for many years.
In 2020, Sybil turned 80 and she continues to be a significant contributor to the education debate in Coventry. She has given a huge amount of her time, experience and knowledge over the years and her contribution is highly valued by the many organisations with which she works, including the City Council. Her actions truly reflect her character, and she is a worthy recipient of this Coventry Good Citizen Award.