Last updated 19:43, Thursday, 24 July 2008

THREE Workington teachers have said goodbye to the classroom at the end of the school term.

MISS YOU, MISS: Sue Farnell, centre, who is retiring from teaching after 37 years, with her last class at Beckstone Primary School, Harrington

Sue Farnell, of Beckstone primary, Harrington, and Anne Lowes and Ginny Pegler, of St Gregory’s primary left last Friday.

Mrs Farnell, head of the reception class has spent more than 30 years in education and was originally at Garth Infants School in Salterbeck, before it merged with Harrington juniors to become the primary school. She has retired. Headteacher David Warbrick said: “Mrs Farnell will be sorely missed because she is a fantastic teacher. She is a popular member of our team and she is the kind of person who is always on hand if you need them. Mrs Farnell is the perfect member of staff.”

Mrs Farnell was made head of reception three years ago when it had 12 pupils. Now 72 youngsters attend.

Mr Warbrick said: “The nursery has come on leaps and bounds under her leadership and it is continuing to grow. We have the builders in now extending the property because next year we will have even more children.”

Children held a pirate theme party and a farewell assembly was held.

At St Gregory’s, Mrs Lowes, who has taught at the school for 19 years, has retired and Mrs Pegler has left after 12 years.

Mrs Lowes, 57, said: “I’ve loved working here because of the children. They’ve all been so extremely friendly and kind which has made my time here so enjoyable.

“I’ve loved building relationships with the children, I’ve even taught some of their parents.”

Mrs Lowes is planning on relaxing and enjoying her retirement but said she had not ruled out supply teaching in the future.

Mrs Pegler, 56, decided to leave to spend more time with her family.

She said: “I recall my first year here at the school being overwhelmed with the amount of generosity the children and parents showed me.

“I will come away with so many fond memories.

“I’ll miss the children though who have been fantastic and the parents who have given so much support; it’s a lovely atmosphere here in school.”

Headteacher Celia Holder said both teachers were well-loved by the children and would be missed.