Emily Hollis MBE
Nominee Profile
Location: Kent
Emily Hollis MBE MUniv FCCT is an inspiring and passionate figure in education and charity, known for dedicating her life—both professionally and personally—to creating opportunities for those who need it most. Her work focuses on making education truly inclusive and supportive, especially for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), those in care, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Emily is currently the Headteacher of Elmley Dray School on the Isle of Sheppey—a new and ambitious special school for young people with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). The school provides a place of hope, innovation, and genuine care, offering personalised support and championing inclusive approaches for learners with additional needs and disabilities.
She’s also a Director of The Hive Thanet, a not-for-profit organisation that offers unique opportunities for the entire SEND community. It’s a place that truly reflects Emily’s belief that everyone deserves the chance to thrive and succeed.
Emily’s passion doesn’t stop there. She supports children in care through the charity First Star Scholars, helping them achieve their full potential, excellent academic outcomes and progress to university—something that’s still far too rare for care-experienced young people. Her dedication earned her an MBE in 2021, a SheInspires Lifetime Achievement Award, and an honorary master’s degree from the Open University.
She’s also a mentor, children’s book author and active volunteer. Despite dealing with her own health challenges, Emily never stops pushing for a fairer future. Her background, growing up on a council estate and overcoming personal adversity, has shaped her fierce belief that where you come from should never limit where you’re going.
Above all, Emily is someone who gets things done. She doesn’t just talk about change, she makes it happen. Her work continues to open doors, raise aspirations, and prove that with the right support, every young person can shine.
Emily is currently the Headteacher of Elmley Dray School on the Isle of Sheppey—a new and ambitious special school for young people with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). The school provides a place of hope, innovation, and genuine care, offering personalised support and championing inclusive approaches for learners with additional needs and disabilities.
She’s also a Director of The Hive Thanet, a not-for-profit organisation that offers unique opportunities for the entire SEND community. It’s a place that truly reflects Emily’s belief that everyone deserves the chance to thrive and succeed.
Emily’s passion doesn’t stop there. She supports children in care through the charity First Star Scholars, helping them achieve their full potential, excellent academic outcomes and progress to university—something that’s still far too rare for care-experienced young people. Her dedication earned her an MBE in 2021, a SheInspires Lifetime Achievement Award, and an honorary master’s degree from the Open University.
She’s also a mentor, children’s book author and active volunteer. Despite dealing with her own health challenges, Emily never stops pushing for a fairer future. Her background, growing up on a council estate and overcoming personal adversity, has shaped her fierce belief that where you come from should never limit where you’re going.
Above all, Emily is someone who gets things done. She doesn’t just talk about change, she makes it happen. Her work continues to open doors, raise aspirations, and prove that with the right support, every young person can shine.