A SHATTERFORD woman received an honorary doctorate from Birmingham City University on Wednesday, September 3.

Dame Christine Braddock, chairman of Birmingham Children’s Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, received the award at the Symphony Hall in England’s second city.

She said: “I am delighted and honoured to be presented this honorary doctorate by Birmingham City University.

“It is recognition for all the staff teams I have worked with over the years, who have brought about the success for thousands of students and now patients.”

The health boss has more than 30 years of experience in senior leadership of further education colleges and was made a Dame in the 2013 New Year’s Honours list in recognition of her commitment to improving and upholding teaching excellence.

Her time as principal and chief executive of Birmingham Metropolitan College saw her bring together three institutions to create what is now one of the largest and successful colleges in the country.

Before moving into further education leadership, she worked as a senior education adviser for the Home Office, managing and coordinating education policy and provision in 43 prison establishments in collaboration with local authorities.

Dame Braddock has also served as president of the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Group and was the first female member of the Birmingham Local Enterprise Partnership.

In 2012 she became High Sheriff of the West Midlands and in 2013 was appointed as Deputy Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands, while in 2008 she was awarded a CBE for her services to further education and in 2013 a DBE for services to business and education.