Former Ysgol Y Deri Headteacher Chris Britten Awarded MBE for Services to Education

Monday, 15 June 2026 17:05

By Nathan Spackman

A well‑known figure in the Vale’s education community has been recognised in the King’s Honours List, with former Ysgol Y Deri headteacher Chris Britten receiving an MBE for his contribution to education.

Mr Britten, who retired recently, spent four decades working across schools in the Vale of Glamorgan and Wales, holding roles in subjects ranging from mathematics and ICT to music. Over the course of his career, he worked at every level of the education system and became widely respected for his leadership and commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people.

After moving into school improvement in 1999, he became a key figure in raising standards, particularly through the use of digital technology. His expertise led to a national role in 2008 when he joined the Welsh Government as a professional adviser, helping to deliver the School Effectiveness Framework alongside international education specialists. He later chaired the National Digital Learning Council, advising Ministers on the development of ICT in schools across Wales.

Locally, Mr Britten is best known for his time as headteacher of Ysgol Y Deri, one of the UK’s largest special schools, where he served from 2009. Under his leadership, the school gained national attention, including through the BBC documentary A Special School, which highlighted the achievements of pupils with additional learning needs (ALNs).

Throughout his career, he has been a strong advocate for children and young people with ALNs, championing their potential and pushing for greater recognition of their needs.

Speaking about the honour, Mr Britten said: “This came out of the blue. I am incredibly proud and excited that my work has been recognised in this way. However, this honour is also for the astonishing people I have had the privilege of working with over the years and my heartfelt thanks go to them as well. Working with children and young people with additional learning needs has been my passion for the last 15 years and I feel that this honour also recognises the importance of this sector.”

Cllr Rhiannon Birch, Vale of Glamorgan Council Cabinet Member for Education, Art and the Welsh Language, added: “I’m sure those that have worked with Chris will join me in wishing him huge congratulations on this honour. “His dedication to education, particularly to supporting children and young people with additional learning needs, has made a profound difference to countless lives. Chris’s leadership at Ysgol Y Deri and his wider contribution to education across Wales are truly exceptional, and this recognition is richly deserved.”