A long serving headteacher at a local primary school will be retiring at Christmas.

Jo Luxon has led St George’s Primary School on Portland for the last 12 years but has served the school for 46 years, initially starting as a games teacher.

Originally from Croydon, Mrs Luxon met her husband on the Isle of Wight and moved back to his hometown, Weymouth, where she began her teacher training.

After doing supply work for several schools, she felt a strong affinity for the Portland area and for this particular primary school.

She said she was driven by a strong desire to leave a lasting impact on the school and to equip pupils with the skills they need as they progress into higher education.

“I wanted to nurture my school as a place with traditional values of respect and manners while also recognising that time moves on and recognising new developments in education.

“It’s been a lifelong ambition of mine that all children who left my care have those foundation stones for life. Making a child a whole person and ready to go into the world as confident learners.”

Mrs Luxon has decided the time is right to retire, feeling reassured that she’d be leaving on a high with pupils and staff feeling happy and contented.

“I think the time to finish is when you’re on top of the game. I’ve exceeded far more years than most head teachers would do, and I think the right time is when you know it couldn’t be any better.

“You’re leaving the school in the very best way, prepared for the best future. Instead of going when you’re worn out, you should go when it’s the right time for you and the school. I’m looking forward to the other side of life.”

Fellow staff members have praised the departing headteacher for her 'immense dedication' to the school community and her 'warm nature'.

Matt Taylor, year 3 teacher, said: “It’s not going to be the same without her. She’s been a pillar of the school for many years now. She’s always got the kids' best interest at heart and is always up for a laugh and a joke.”

Kim Hughes, Mrs Luxon’s PA, said: “I think the staff will miss her massively. She’s a fantastic headteacher who really cares not just for the pupils but for the staff and community. She’s got a very warm heart and thinks an awful lot of everybody.”