Staff and pupils at a Basford school is sad to see two of its staff members retire after they spent close to 30 years at the school. Dinner ladies and best friends, Christine Hudson, 65, and Sandra Wallace, 72, are retiring from Heathfield Primary & Nursery School.
Christine has been at the school for 31 years, starting as a lunchtime supervisor but over the years also working in the breakfast club and the after school club. She said: "It is just like a family here My three children came here and six of my grandchildren came here. The staff here are just lovely and so are the children."
Read More: Community rally to help 'distraught' owner find lost dog
Sandra has worked as a dinner lady at the school for 28 years. She said: "It’s just a lovely little lunch time job that used to fit in with our children that went here and you just feel part of the Heathfield School family, and the children certainly make it worth while."
Christine and Sandra have been friends for almost 37 years, and have loved their time working together at the school. Sandra said: "Christine started at school before me but I used to come in and help.
"We will certainly miss it as it’s been part of our lives for all these years." The pair make their way to the school together each day and always leave together afterwards.
Christine said: "In all that time we've never had a cross word." When asked how she felt about her imminent retirement, Christine said: "The only way that I can describe it is like a bereavement.
"I know it’s the right time and everything, but it’s going to be very emotional and sad." Sandra added that she was also "nervous" and that "it’s going to be a big change."
When asked about their retirement, co-headteacher, Gareth Hicks, said: "Both Christine and Sandra have been a large part of the lives of probably thousands of children. Whenever we have children coming back to school, the things they often remember the most are Sandra and Christine, and their time with them at lunch time or in after school club.
"They will be greatly missed by everyone here." Christine and Sandra stated that they have really enjoyed their time at the school, and will miss everyone at the school.
They also wanted to thank all of the staff and pupils for being so kind and supportive over the years.
Read Next:
