Top-class teacher nears retirement

MARY Glenn ending her 33-year career

A LONG-STANDING teacher is to retire after 33 years of serving the community through education.

Mary Glenn, head of Visual and Performing Arts at Waterhead Academy, Huddersfield Road, will leave her role next month.

The dedicated teacher joined Breezehill, the predecessor school, in 1983 and was an integral part of the formation of the academy in 2010.

Mrs Glenn said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my career and met many talented students and colleagues throughout my time at Waterhead Academy and predecessor school.

"I would like to thank everyone involved with the academy for their support over the years and to wish them well for the future."

Waterhead commended Mrs Glenn for her work in community projects across Oldham, including the opening of Gallery Oldham in 2002 and the strong relationships she has built within communities through art work.

Originally from Northern Ireland, Mrs Glenn took part in the Northern Ireland civic rights marches and believes every child in Oldham has the right to a first-class education.

Throughout her teaching career, she has seen several changes take place in the education system and has led her team to deliver results which have regularly been above the national average.

Colleagues from Waterhead Academy described the outgoing head of faculty's role as "fundamental" to the success of their visual and performing arts department.

On retiring, Mrs Glenn is looking forward to spending more time with her family and grandchildren as well as travelling.

Executive principal James Haseldine said: "Mary has been a valuable part of the academy and fundamental in the success of the visual and performing arts faculty. She will be greatly missed by students and colleagues."