North Tyneside’s Virtual Headteacher has been recognised in the New Year Honours list for the difference she has made to the lives of children in care.
Jane Pickthall, Head of The Virtual School for Education, Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing in North Tyneside, is awarded an MBE
Jane has led the Virtual School, which champions the education and wellbeing of children in care, for 18 years.
During this time, she has developed a highly effective one-stop-shop service, that not only achieves outstanding academic results, but also supports young people with their physical health, mental health and emotional well-being.
The HIVE team, which stands for 'Health, Information and advice, Virtual School, and Emotional well-being' includes nurses, teachers, counsellors, educational psychologist, occupational therapist and a team of administrators who support with appointments, data systems and finance - providing holistic support for children in care, care leavers, previously looked after children and most recently having an oversight role with all children who have a social worker.
Jane has also played a key role in the National Association of Virtual School Heads (NAVSH) where her work has had national impact in helping to improve outcomes for all children in care.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, she ensured the school was quick to respond to the impact of lockdown on children in care - coming up with creative solutions to help and support.
This included developing a Recovery School model that acts as a bridge to getting children and young people who have experienced trauma and abuse back into school in a much more supported way.
Recently, Jane also led on the launch of ambitious new plans to transform mental health support for all young people in the borough – including new specialist teams for schools that will benefit thousands of pupils.
Jacqui Old, Director of Children’s and Adult Services, North Tyneside Council, said: “The energy Jane puts into driving success at all levels and across all areas of a child’s life is second to none.
“The model she has created is a national exemplar but most importantly, the children she has worked with over the last 18 years, without exception, speak fondly of their memories of Jane, the care and affection she showed them and the difference she has made to their lives.”
