Saffron Walden school bids farewell to headteacher

STAFF and pupils at a Saffron Walden school have bid a fond farewell to their headteacher, who retires this week.

Gayle Mawson, headteacher at RA Butler Schools in South Road, has been with the school for eight years, and in that time has seen over 1,000 pupils pass through its gates.

A teacher for over 40 years, Mrs Mawson has led the school from strength to strength during her time there.

Among many other achievements RA Butler now has the Gold Arts Mark and The Challenge Award, and Mrs Mawson was among a small number of headteachers invited to a reception at Downing Street with Prime Minister David Cameron.

Rated outstanding by government inspectors Ofsted, RA Butler now has academy status.

Speaking at a special assembly to mark the end of her tenure, Mrs Mawson praised the staff and pupils she has worked with since joining the school in 2003.

“It has been an absolute privilege to be the headteacher of this wonderful school”, she said.

“I have been very lucky to have worked alongside an amazing teaching and support staff, and I am very proud of all the children who come here. Proud of their confidence and their many achievements.

“It is hard to believe that the four year olds who started here when I joined are now in their second year at the County High School.”

Although retiring as a headteacher, Mrs Mawson will continue to help out in local schools, and is looking forward to being back in the classroom. She is also planning to study for another degree, this time in history, and to become a parish councillor in her local village.

“I have some wonderful memories of my time at RA Butler,” she added.

“I would like to thank all the staff, parents and pupils who have made the last eight years such a rewarding and special time.”

New headteacher Ann Keen will take up the post in September.