A RECENTLY-retired headteacher received an award which celebrates those who have had a positive impact on young people’s lives.

Julie Allen MBE, the former head at Birkwood Primary in Cudworth, was presented with the Brian W Hicks shield for services to youth at a special concert held at the school.

Birkwood Brass Band’s performance at the event was a ‘dress rehearsal’ for the their entry into the National Youth Brass Band Championships, which were held in Corby last weekend.

Julie retired last year having overseen the band’s formation and the school rise to the top of education watchdog Ofsted’s ratings, having bagged an ‘outstanding’ inspection.

A spokesperson from the school said: “Mrs Allen has put music at the heart of Birkwood Primary School and believed passionately about the positive impact it can make to both school life and the local community.

“She encouraged and funded pupils to continue to play, paid for musical exams and started a school brass band with the support of the local music service, school staff and Grimethorpe Colliery Band.

“She has the respect of the school and the local community, leading Birkwood to become an outstanding school and championing the impact music has made and leaves a lasting legacy of outstanding music making in school.”