Here I am on the cusp of retirement after 41 special years at Gateacre School and you can’t imagine how surprising this is!

I have spent 29 of those years teaching French and 12 working in the world of exams and data.

It has been a wonderful career, full of interesting and varied work alongside amazing colleagues, some of whom have become lifelong friends.

Most of all, I’ve enjoyed the company of Gateacre’s students who still make me smile every day.

When a member of staff leaves, it is customary to have a collection but I’ve chosen a JustGiving page instead.

I looked for a local charity for young people which relies upon donations, and Oakleaf (part of the Liverpool Bereavement Service) was highly recommended by staff here.  Many of our students have already accessed the fantastic support which Oakleaf provides ….

… ‘We offer young people a safe environment to have the time to  understand why they feel as they do, and how loss can impact on their behaviours and emotions.  We can also support the family throughout the grieving process.’

I would love it if you would like to acknowledge my retirement by contributing to this amazing charity which is so appreciated by our school and community.

Thanks and au revoir 🤗 X