Staff and pupils at Burnside Primary are soon to bid a fond farewell to two “well loved” members of the school office team who have notched up a combined 40 years’ service.
Morag Skilling and Maureen McAllister, both of whom began working at Burnside Primary’s office 20 years ago, will be retiring when the school breaks up for the spring holidays.
Head teacher Helen McGarvey says that Morag and Maureen, known affectionately as ‘M&M,’ will be missed by the entire school community.
She said: “They have been the most wonderful office team a school could want – the real face of the school, welcoming to parents and visitors, pleasant to pupils, staff and parents and always so professional.
“They are so well loved by our pupils, staff and parents and will be missed hugely. I often joke with them that they run the school.
“They both have a great sense of humour and it is so clear to everyone how much they have loved their jobs.”
Head teacher Helen says that team leader Morag has been “a tremendous support” to all the school’s support staff and administrators.
Maureen, meanwhile, has been the organiser of school excursions and clubs during normal times, with responsibilities for admin and stock control.
She has also facilitated the annual visit to the school of ‘Buddy the Elf.’
“Both look after our children so well, whether that’s with some reassuring words, a sticking plaster, an ice pack or just some TLC,” continued Helen.
“They have both invested hugely in our school and pupils throughout their time here . We will still ‘see’ them I’m sure for years to come, going off to collect treats for pupils from the cash & carry or putting up our large hall Christmas tree together.
“They support our Christmas fayres, playground parties and all other school events.”
To keep the office operation ticking over, Jacquie Hale has already become part of the team and will soon be joined by a second new office staff member.
Everyone at Burnside Primary wishes Morag and Maureen a long, happy, and well deserved retirement.
