The UK education sector mourns the loss of one of its most influential figures, Chris Robertson, who has died at the age of 76. A former colleague and friend remembers her as a warm-hearted and inspirational force, deeply committed to her students and to the principle that every child deserves the very best opportunities.
From the Classroom to National Leadership
Chris Robertson's remarkable career in education spanned decades, beginning in the 1970s. She progressed from teaching and school leadership roles to authority-wide educational leadership in Derby. Her expertise then took her to Manchester Metropolitan University, where she headed primary teacher training.
In a pivotal career move in 2002, Chris was appointed head of the Institute of Education at the University of Worcester. Under her stewardship, the institute grew to become one of the UK's largest and highest quality educators of teachers and early years professionals, working in partnership with more than 500 schools.
A Champion for Children and Social Justice
At every stage of her career, Chris was a formidable champion for the welfare and development of children. She insisted that every child mattered and deserved love and the finest opportunities in life. This commitment was evident in her 17-year role as a brilliant antenatal educator and NCT tutor.
Her influence extended to national policy. She chaired the Universities' Council for the Education of Teachers and contributed to the influential 2003 Every Child Matters green paper, which was developed in the wake of the Victoria Climbié tragedy.
Building a Lasting Legacy in Early Years Education
Around 2009, a period of significant expansion for early years education with the creation of Sure Start centres, Chris's leadership was instrumental. The University of Worcester held one of just seven national contracts with the Department for Education to develop early years foundation stage standards.
Chris assembled and led a consortium of universities and further education colleges, ensuring the delivery of outstanding education and training for early years professionals across a vast region, from Birmingham to Land's End.
In recognition of her immense contribution, she was appointed Professor of Education at Worcester in 2009. Her inaugural lecture, 'Changing Times, Changing Children: Issues of Social Justice and Education', which advocated for integrated services working in the best interests of the child, proved highly influential. Her dedicated service was formally recognised with an MBE in 2013.
Chris never wished to retire, but a diagnosis of breast cancer led to a long illness. After recovering, she chose to retire to spend precious time with her husband, Mike, following his diagnosis with advanced prostate cancer. Mike died in 2015.
Chris Robertson is survived by her four children, Bethan, Neil, Owain and Sian, and her 14 grandchildren.
