A CHINGFORD woman who received an award for school business management is one if the first people in the country to qualify under the new scheme.

Louise Campion, of Endlebury Road, works as a senior administration officer for Lawdale Junior School in Bethnal Green.

She picked up her certificate of school business management at a graduation ceremony at the National Institute of Education on Russell Square in April, and intends to continue her studies in November.

The course at the National College for School Leadership has had a positive effect on Miss Campion's career prospects.

She said: "I decided to take the course to further my career. As a result I have not only learned new skills but I have also got a promotion at my new school."

Miss Campion survived fierce competition to get on the course and received an international diploma.

She also received a year's membership of the Institute of Administrative Management in recognition of her achievements.