A DEDICATED headteacher is celebrating her retirement after spending almost 40 years at a Dorchester first school.
Jackie Clayton has worked at St Mary’s Catholic First School since 1978 but bid an emotional farewell to staff, children and parents at the end of term.
Her time at the school goes back to 1978 when she first started as a teacher.
Staff have thanked a much loved part of the school family, who is considered a friend to many of the people associated with the school.
Deputy headteacher Paula Fearn said: “She has been a fantastic head and a wonderful mentor, leader and friend to the staff, children and parents at the school. We wish her all the best with her retirement.”
Mrs Fearn will be replacing Miss Clayton as headteacher and said that she will try to carry on her good work in running the school and also continue to implement her ethos.
Mrs Fearn paid tribute to Miss Clayton, saying that she has been a big part of the school.
She said: “She’s been a massive part of our community, linking parents and staff.
“We’ll miss her at the front gates every morning.”
During her final days at the school, pupils got the chance to share their memories of her with Mrs Clayton and thank her for everything she had done and they hope that she won’t be away for long.
Mrs Fearn said: “The children have shared with her their memories and have already invited her back.
“The school is her life and her family and she’s dedicated her life to it.”
Despite the sadness at Miss Clayton's departure, Mrs Fearn said that the school is looking forward together.
Miss Clayton was presented with a cake by chairman of governors at the school Jared Parkin to celebrate the start of her retirement.
A recent inspection at the school by the Diocese of Plymouth said that it is a school which nurtures faith, hope and love.
It also said that at the heart of the school's vision is the desire that all children can grow 'knowing and learning about God's love'.
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