A DEPUTY head teacher said she will miss the ‘wonderful pupils, staff and parents’ after retiring after 28 years.

Judith Draper started at Wensley Fold Primary Academy, in Manor Road, Blackburn in 1989. During that period she has seen the school go through special measures and on to glowing Ofsted reports.

Speaking to on Friday, her final day at the school, she said: “It is a real mix of emotions. Happy to be going as retirement is part of life but sad because I will so miss the staff and children who have been amazing.

“We have a fantastic bunch of pupils and the parents have been wonderful and supportive.

“I will so miss it. Twenty-eight years I have been coming through those gates and my car will probably point its way to that direction on September 4 when the new term starts.”

Staff and pupils held a special assembly as a goodbye.

Mrs Draper said: “It has been a real rollercoaster of a journey. There have been many highs and many lows. I could not pin point one memory.

“When I had been here nine years the school was put in special measures. Gaynor Stubbs came to the school and we implemented some changes and it became a completely different school.

“From then on we have gone on from strength to strength. From special measures to a beacon school and then to an Outstanding judgement from Ofsted.

“It has been an incredible journey.”

She had this message for parents and pupils:“Wensley Fold is such a special place and I think I am very privileged to have worked here for 28 years.

"I wish all pupils well and I am sure they will all continue to reach for the highest possible achievements.”

Donna Simpson, head teacher at the school said, “The whole Wensley Fold family, past and present, who have had the opportunity to work with Mrs Draper over the past 28 years wish her lots of luck with the next step in her journey.

“We are sure she will enjoy lots of time with her family and friends and have the opportunity for wonderful holidays, trips and new hobbies.

“The times shared, friendships forged and the incredible successes which Wensley Fold has enjoyed alongside Mrs Draper have been an extraordinary part of all our lives.

“We are very proud of all that we have achieved as a school and thank Mrs Draper wholeheartedly for the part she has played in this.

“Enjoy your retirement Mrs Draper, you deserve it.”