The 2022 New Year Honours list was announced last week, marking the achievements and service of extraordinary people across the UK. Amongst those recognised was one of Vision RCL’s very own staff members, Schools’ Library Service Manager, Nina Simon.

Nina has worked for Vision for many years within the library service, working across Redbridge schools to provide much needed support for teachers and librarians. Nina is a champion for reading and her role involves promoting and encouraging Redbridge’s younger residents to read more books. The New Year Honours List has recognised her efforts as she received the award for services to education in the London Borough of Redbridge.

Upon receiving this recognition, Nina Simon, Schools’ Library Service Manager, said:

“I was completely surprised but very thrilled to be awarded a British Empire Medal in New Year Honours List for services to Education in Redbridge. I joined the Schools’ Library Service in 2003 as a temp for three months and 19 years later I’m still here.

I love encouraging and enthusing children to read, especially with the Redbridge Children’s Book Award as well as supporting teachers and school librarians to the best of my ability.”

Martin Solder, Chair of Vision RCL, said:

“I am delighted to hear the news that Nina Simon has been awarded a British Empire Medal in the New Year Honours. This reflects the hard work and dedication by Nina to inspire a love of books and reading in young people in Redbridge, working tirelessly with schools, teachers and librarians across the borough. On behalf of all of us at Vision RCL, I would like to say congratulations!”

For the full New Year Honours List visit Government website.