CHILDREN will be missing two familiar faces next term as a pair of school stalwarts begin a well-earned retirement.Pupils, parents and staff at Chantry Infant School are saying farewell to their headteacher Sally Bishop, who is retiring after nine years in the role this week.

CHILDREN will be missing two familiar faces next term as a pair of school stalwarts begin a well-earned retirement.

Pupils, parents and staff at Chantry Infant School are saying farewell to their headteacher Sally Bishop, who is retiring after nine years in the role this week.

Under her the stewardship, the school received a 'School Improvement Award' earlier this year in recognition of academic achievement. She also oversaw the building of three new classrooms to replace the temporary huts that have been in use at the school since it was built in 1956.

Deputy head Jill Grosvenor said: "She is going to be greatly missed by us all. She is so kind and understanding towards the children and their families."

"She has earned tremendous respect, not only from them, but also from her staff. Other colleagues within the Local Education Authority all speak very highly of her."

A retirement party was held at Pipps Ford, Needham Market on Saturday that gave staff, colleagues and governors the chance to show their appreciation to Mrs Bishop, 57.

She said: "I shall miss my colleagues and the children tremendously. I have had nine wonderful years in the role. I would like to thank all the parents and the teachers for their support, particularly the parents."

"I am looking forward to being useful in other ways in my retirement, but it is a wrench to be leaving."

Also bidding a fond farewell will be Pamela Wilkinson, senior teacher at Witnesham Primary School.

Mrs Wilkinson is retiring after 13 years at the school.

"I have been overwhelmed by the kind words and gifts I have had. Everybody has been so generous. This week the children held an assembly all about the memories they had of their time with me – it was very emotional. I shall miss them all very much and it has been a very difficult decision."

Headteacher Christine Gough said she had been a wonderful member of staff.

"She has been a highly respected member of staff and had a very special relationship with the children."

Mrs Wilkinson has a close bond with the school and still lives in the village.

"I hope to keep in close contact with the school and also spend more time on the boat my husband and I have bought in Holland," she added.