A LONG-serving education mentor has been invited to attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace later this month.

Julie Warden, who has working with young people in education for 30 years, received the royal invitation in recognition of her service to education.

The glamorous Queen’s Garden Party takes place on Wednesday, May 15, and recognises members of the public for their services to their local communities and society in general.

Queen Elizabeth II hosts four garden parties over the summer, three at Buckingham Palace and one at Holyrood House, honouring 30,000 people from every corner of the UK.

Julie Warden has worked at Bradford College for the past five years, where she plays a key role in ensuring young people make good progress on their courses.

It is her three decades of dedication to helping young people get the most out of their education opportunities which earned Ms Warden an invitation to the palace.

She was put forward for the event by the Society for Education and Training, the membership body dedicated to professionals working across further education, vocational teaching and training.

Ms Warden said: “I feel hugely privileged to be attending and representing the Society for Education and Training, Bradford College, and all the folk who work tirelessly in education to enhance the lives of their learners.

“I am passionate about a high quality learner experience so my current role at Bradford College is a great fit.

“As Learner Progress and Cross College Tutorial Manager I set the direction of travel, expectations and content of tutorials for more than 3,000 full-time further education students.

“These are facilitated by an amazing team of Progress Coaches who also encourage students to undertake enrichment activities, provide pastoral care, monitor attendance and make referrals to the broader college services.

“I am part of SET’s Practitioner Advisory Group which involves mentoring those seeking Advanced Teacher Status or a career change in the Bradford area.”

In the beautiful grounds of Buckingham Palace Ms Warden will be treated to cups of tea, sandwiches and slices of cake.

The garden parties give the Queen an opportunity to speak to a broad range of people from all walks of life, who have all made a positive impact on their community.

Her Majesty, Prince Philip, and other members of the Royal family attend the garden parties at Buckingham Palace.

The tradition of holding parties in the palace grounds stretches back to the 1860s.