A fitting send-off for teacher

HILARY Henderson with St Chad's head Peter Burnley

THE Saddleworth hills really were alive with the sound of music when popular teacher Hilary Henderson left her beloved village school.

Hilary, 25 years a member of staff at St. Chad's CE Primary School, Uppermill, is taking up post as head teacher of St. Paul's CE Primary School, Royton.

And it was a highly-charged, emotional farewell when children, parents and colleagues thronged Saddleworth Church during their annual Christmas service to pay their respects.

The service, which had a musical theme based around friendship, was a fitting tribute to Hilary's enormous contribution to music at the school.

Canon Sharon Jones, the new team rector of Saddleworth, and Peter Burnley, head teacher of St. Chad's led the service.

Dr. Eileen Bentley, retired head of the prestigious Oldham Music Centre, played the organ.

The school choir, conducted by Hilary who has developed choral music at St. Chad's during her time at the school, performed two pieces.

School head Peter Burnley, said: "Hilary has been a valued member of the school community which was reflected by the number of past members of staff, parents and friends of the school who joined the celebration. I know she will be successful in her new position at St. Paul's," he added.

During the service Hilary was presented with gifts and cards from the school, with the church giving her a gift to mark her contribution in promoting successful links between the local church and school.

And handmade decorations created by pupils on a themed based around light, were effectively displayed and heightened the overall ambience of the service.

Speaking at the service Hilary said: "I would like to thank St Chad's for teaching me to see every single person in our school can be a leader.

"The kindness children show to each other, the responsibility and initiative so many of our community display identify St.Chad's individuality. And the uniqueness makes the school a special place to be part of - and St. Chad's will always be in my heart."

She went on: "I would thank everyone at St. Chad's both past and present for all the memories, the learning, the journeys, the colleagues and friends but above all else the pleasure and honour to have taught so many wonderful children.

"My calculations probably reach closer to over hundreds of pupils over the years.

"I hope my influence and leadership will continue to do that at St. Paul's too."

She added: "St Chad's has been an extension to my own family.

"I have loved and cherished every day at this school.

"I hope if I can inspire others at St. Paul's half as much as the school has inspired me, I know we will become successful."