Teaching pair leave Copeland Road school in West Auckland after 46 years

AFTER more than 100 school terms between them, two West Auckland teachers have bid a final farewell to the classroom.

Elizabeth Jude and Carol Torano left Copeland Road Primary School last Friday after a combined 46 years of teaching.

In her 33 years at the school, Ms Jude has always taught infants as well as stepping in as acting deputy headteacher for a brief spell.

Meanwhile, Ms Torano has taught year two pupils at the school for almost 14 years.

She said: “I came for just one term in 2003 and I am still here now. It has been lovely.”

Ms Jude said: “It has been great. I have taught mums and their children but no grandchildren yet. I also taught three of our teaching assistants. It is emotional.

“It is a brilliant school with a fabulous ethos. Everyone is lovely to work with and the children are amazing. They have very supportive parents too.”

Both teachers are now looking forward to enjoying their retirement which they say will include meeting up for coffees, term-time holidays and time spent fulfilling their hobbies. Ms Torano said: “We will miss it all but it is a new start for us now. It is not the end. It is the beginning of a new chapter in our lives.”

Headteacher Robin Nodding added: “We are sad to see Elizabeth and Carol leave because they have been here for such a long time. They have both brought experience to the school.

“Over the years they have supported the development of the school. It is difficult to quantify things sometimes.

“Two long-term members of staff leaving at the same time is a big change. They will be missed by all of the pupils, staff and parents.”