A much-loved deputy headteacher described as the “Queen” of her school received a surprise send-off as she retired after 32 years in Halewood.
Children and staff at Holy Family Primary School lined Arncliffe Road to cheer Angela Rigby as she paraded down the street in a horse and cart on Thursday (July 15).
Mrs Rigby, wearing a tiara and cape, looked overjoyed with her send-off from a school where she has taught several generations of the same family.
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One of her former pupils, Louise Olley, said: “When I think back of any teacher who had the most impact on me during school and university I think of Mrs Rigby in primary school. She shaped my future and now has shaped my children’s.
“I sent my son and daughter to Holy Family because I had attended myself, I knew it was a lovely school and fantastic that Mrs Rigby was still teaching there.
"I thought it was amazing that she could teach me and my children. I wanted them to experience what I did. She’s firm but fair with a fantastic sense of humour.
“She has influenced so many children. She should know how much everyone appreciates her.”
Ms Olley’s daughter Oona, who is currently a Year 6 pupil at Holy Family, agreed, saying: “I was excited that Mrs Rigby was going to be my teacher this year because my mum had told me so much about her when I was younger.
“Then I got to know Mrs Rigby myself as she knows every child’s name in the school and makes them feel like they are a part of the school. She is an amazing person who knows everyone and their families.
“She makes everyone try their hardest and do their very best. Every single morning on the way to school she has stood outside saying ‘Good morning’ to everyone and it makes the day start with a smile.”
Praising his deputy as she retired, headteacher Kevin Quigley said: “Every school needs a Mrs Rigby. She has made a huge impact on the children and families at Holy Family school over her 32 years in post.
“She is a passionate, fun and energetic teacher who seeks only the best in all that she does.
“She has been a great leader in the school too and has maintained our high expectations and standards by setting an excellent example for others to follow. She deserves this well earned retirement.”
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