Wendover News APR 26TH 2016 http://www.wendovernews.co.uk/news/queens-honour-classroom-assistant

"The Queen has honoured retired learning support assistant Lynne Pullinger for her work with children who have special educational needs.

Lynne, from Amersham, was presented with the British Empire Medal (BEM) by Buckinghamshire's Lord Lieutenant, Sir Henry Aubrey-Fletcher, at a special investiture attended by family and friends.

Countess Elizabeth Howe, who read the Honours Citation, said that in her role as learning support assistant Lynne had demonstrated selfless commitment to providing pupils with the best quality support.

'What differentiates Lynne from other learning support assistants is her total focus on a holistic approach to improving a child's quality of life, and her dedication and willingness to make personal sacrifices,' said Countess Howe.

She said Lynne had designed bespoke games and exercises to suit the needs of individual children, and had helped them behaviourally with social integration.

Lynne, who retired in 2014 from her role at Burford School, Marlow Bottom, was praised for her leadership of a county-wide forum for learning support assistants working with autistic pupils.

Sir Henry said: 'Lynne is one of Buckinghamshire's unsung heroes, and it's always a delight to honour local residents who serve our community unstintingly.'

He said the recently reinstated BEM had made a national honour more accessible to local people, and encouraged Buckinghamshire residents to nominate their local unsung heroes"