There will be more than a few tears when a headteacher who has seen whole generations pass through her school retires today (Friday).

Julie Kidner, of South Green Infants in Billericay, said she had been trying desperately to keep a hold on her emotions all week.

She has received a wealth of good wishes and gifts from pupils, staff and past students, who regularly come back to visit with their own children in tow. She said: "I'm going to be very sad to leave because I know so many people in the community.

"I have seen children of children I've taught when people bring their babies to see me and let me know how they're getting on.

"There's a very special community spirit in South Green - it's a very caring, supportive community, which is very unusual these days."

The children and staff presented their favourite headteacher with an array of gifts to let her indulge her passion for gardening.

She received a bird table, an oak leaf covered in copper and gold, a wheelbarrow, garden ornaments, wind chimes and membership of the Royal Horticultural Society.

A beautiful cake showing Mrs Kidner reclining in a chair in her garden was also specially made for a party thrown by the Friends of the school.

She began her career at Brookfield Infants School, in Hutton, in 1964 before taking seven years out to have two children. Then 18 years ago she arrived at South Green Infants in Ganels Road, initially as head of the nursery. She became headteacher six years ago.

She said: "I always wanted to teach and work with young children because it's so important to have the foundations in place. That's why I've so much enjoyed being in a school with a nursery unit. Leaving in the end of an era for me."

Her husband Colin is also about to retire as a teacher from an Epping school and they plan to spend the summer in their garden.

They also want to travel and decorate their home and have high hopes their married daughter will soon make them doting grandparents.

Playtime - Julie Kidner joins some of the children in the school playground

Picture: NICK ANSELL

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