SQA congratulates former Director Dr. Gill Stewart on OBE Honour

Tuesday 17 June 2025

SQA offers its warmest congratulations to our former Director of Qualifications Development, Dr. Gill Stewart, who has been named an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the King's Birthday Honours list. 
 
The honour is in recognition of Dr. Stewart’s outstanding and sustained contribution to education in Scotland. 
 
During her distinguished career at SQA, Gill’s leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to learners left a lasting and positive impact.

As Director of Qualifications Development, Gill was instrumental in shaping and developing Scotland's qualifications landscape, championing the principles of quality and fairness to support the success of countless individuals and centres across the country. 

Gill, who retired last September after 35 years of service with SQA and our predecessor, SCOTVEC, said: "I am delighted to have been awarded an OBE in the King’s Birthday Honours list for services to education. This was totally unexpected, but I am so proud and honoured. I have been privileged to work in Scottish education for over 30 years with so many dedicated and professional colleagues both internally and externally. I have always tried to focus on the learners, but also the practicalities of delivery for centres and SQA. I know the future of Scottish education is in good hands."

John Booth, Interim Chief Executive at SQA, said: "We are all incredibly proud to see Gill’s immense contribution to Scottish education recognised in this way. She was a passionate and dedicated leader whose work has benefited so many. This honour is thoroughly deserved. On behalf of everyone at SQA, I send her our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for her continued happy retirement."