THE headteacher of a village school hopes to sail into the sunset when he retires this week.

Robert Collins has been a teacher for 39 years, and for the last ten has been at the helm at Alresford Primary School.

Keen sailor Mr Collins said he intends to take a break from education and hopes to spend more time on his boat after his last lesson tomorrow.

“I am taking some time to rest and reflect before making a decision about what to do with the rest of my life,” said Mr Collins, 60.

Mr Collins said: “I will miss the village community at Alresford School. It’s a small school , we know everybody and all the children, and I will miss seeing them grow, develop and be successful.

“I want to thank everybody who has supported the school and myself over the years, and wish them all the best for the future.”