The retired head of early years at Southend-on-Sea City Council has been awarded an MBE for Services to Education.
Elaine Hammans, 65, from Maldon, finally retired at the end of March 2023 following 23 years of service at Southend and a life-long career in childcare.
After keeping the secret since 10 May, Elaine told family and friends on Saturday (17 June) that her name would feature in the King’s Birthday Honour’s List announcement.
She said: “Sharing the news on Saturday with my family and friends was so fantastic our children could not wait to put it on Facebook they were so proud.
“I feel so honoured, proud and privileged to be awarded an MBE. I recently retired from Southend-on-Sea City Council where I held the position of head of early years. I was privileged and proud to work for a great council and to serve the children and families in Southend.
“Receiving this award is also a credit to the great early years team, many colleagues from across the council and organisations all aiming to provide the best start in life for children and their families and also my husband Les who has supported me to do the best I can.”
Elaine left school at the age of 15 with no formal qualifications. Once she had her first child, she started childminding, getting qualified under the Children Act at the same time as working and bringing up a young family.
She came to Southend-on-Sea City Council in 2000 as a development officer for early years and worked her way up. Now she’s making the most of her retirement with a slower pace of life, planning holidays and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.
Cllr Helen Boyd, cabinet member for children and learning, said: “On behalf of everyone at the council, I would like to say a huge congratulations to Elaine for her MBE. She is an example of true passion and ambition, driving the agenda for early years in Southend for so many years. She is a credit to herself, to her profession and to Southend-on-Sea City Council.”