An education expert has received an OBE from Princess Anne.

Professor Rhona Stainthorp, from the University of Reading's Institute of Education, was officially appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by the Princess Royal on November 6.

She was recognised for her significant contributions to education, particularly in early reading development.

Professor Stainthorp said: "Receiving the OBE from HRH Princess Anne was a moving experience.

"Though the investiture is clothed in pomp and ceremony, it was surprisingly intimate at the same time."

At the ceremony, Princess Anne spoke with Professor Stainthorp about evidence-based approaches to teaching young children to read.

Professor Stainthorp was joined by close family members, including her husband, son, and granddaughter, who explored Windsor Castle's historic rooms.

Reflecting on her academic career, Professor Stainthorp said: "I have had the privilege to work with many colleagues and students who all share my passion for applying research findings to educational settings in order to enhance the life chances of children and young people.

"It is good to know that the Language and Literacy in Education Research Group at the University of Reading Institute of Education continues to flourish."

The appointment recognises Professor Stainthorp's lasting impact on educational research and her commitment to improving the life chances of children and young people through evidence-based teaching methods.

She is a leading expert on reading development and difficulties and has made significant contributions to reading education research and policy, particularly around the use of phonics.

Over her distinguished career, Professor Stainthorp has authored more than 100 publications on reading development, reading difficulties, and approaches to teaching reading.

Her work has shed light on the critical role of phonological and phonemic skills in learning to read.

She has been a vocal advocate for research-informed reading instruction, emphasising the importance of systematic synthetic phonics as part of a rich literacy curriculum.

In addition to her scholarly work, Professor Stainthorp has advised policymakers and practitioners on evidence-based reading instruction.

She served on the advisory group for the phonics screening check introduced in England in 2012.

Her expertise has shaped initial teacher training and professional development in reading pedagogy.

Professor Stainthorp has also advised educational media producers, including the BBC, on content that supports children’s literacy.

She said: "This is a totally unexpected honour.

"The opportunities the University has given me for engaging in applied research into the learning and teaching of reading and writing have been immeasurable.

"This award recognises how important it is that research into learning and teaching of literacy continues to be supported so that the life chances of children are enhanced."