Wirral teaching assistant retires after 40 years at Ladymount

Sheena Manley began her career in 1984 at Ladymount Catholic Primary School in Pensby, when many of the current serving staff weren’t even born and has become an 'irreplaceable' member of staff who is said to have worn more ‘hats’ than a crowd at Ascot races.

Colleagues and pupils made sure their 'wonderful' teacher got the send-off she deserved as she retired on Thursday (March 28) after an astonishing 40 year dedication to the school.

Ladymount has a reputation for being a very musical school, and Mrs Manley’s celebration certainly had plenty of upbeat tracks that had been subtly altered to fit the occasion such as Eye of the Tiger and I’m Still Standing.

The assembly was described as a very fitting celebration for a teacher that has given 40 years of her life to so many children.

Mrs Manley said: "It's been a very emotional goodbye, I am going to miss everybody."

Sheena Manley (Image: Craig Manning / Newsquest)

Looking back on her time at the school, Sheena continued: "I've seen so many changes at the school, I couldn't possibly pick out any highlights, but what I would say is that I have really enjoyed my time here.

"My advice to staff and pupils is 'keep smiling and being wonderful."

 Looking ahead to retirement, she joked: "I'm planning to do as little as possible."

Headteacher Nicola Turner said: "We just can’t imagine Ladymount without Mrs Manley,

“The children and staff rely on her for so many things.

"She is so much more than a teacher to us. She is the one we all look for to help us. A parent to us all. She will be so sorely missed, but it is time for her to enjoy a much-deserved rest."

Her celebration included visits from past headteachers, staff members, parents and pupils and even had a special message from Hogwarts itself.