School deputy head retires after 35-year career

Mrs Andrea Perry (58), of West Bradford, was given a “This is Your Life”-style send-off at a special assembly by staff and pupils at Christ the King Primary School, Burnley.

The deputy headteacher was presented with a host of gifts, including leisure centre vouchers, an iPad, flowers, and a personalised cake made by one of the parents, and video messages from two former colleagues were shown on the big screen.

The school also adapted the lyrics of a “Mamma Mia” song as a tribute to Mrs Perry, who worked at Christ the King for 10 years. She previously held the role of acting headteacher at Christ the King and also worked at St John’s Primary School in Burnley, St John’s in Padiham and Scared Heart Primary School in Colne.

Although Year 1 teacher Mrs Perry said she will miss the job and the children, she said she is looking forward to her retirement.

Her husband Tony retired from his role as headteacher of a school in Preston on the same day and the West Bradford couple, who have two children and two grandchildren, plan to spend more time with their family.

“We’ve got a few holidays planned and we’ve got two grandchildren aged three years and eight weeks so we’re looking forward to spending time with them.

“We’ll also be doing more walking and gardening. I’m going to miss it. When you’ve done something for so long you’re just constantly thinking of the children, resources and things to do with them.

“I’ve been proud to work at Christ the King, I’ll miss the children, they always make you smile.”