WHN 438 – Retirement party for school stalwart

EX-pupils of Westbury Leigh Primary School are being invited back to bid farewell to long-serving teacher Diane Bouault.

Diane, who retires at the end of July, has seen over 400 pupils pass through her classroom since she joined the school in 1989. Diane taught year five pupils for the first 15 years at Westbury Leigh before taking a year six class four years ago.
To mark Diane’s departure at the end of this academic term, a retirement celebration will be held at the school school on Wednesday 22nd July between 4.00pm and 6.00 pm.

Diane said, “There should be lots of past staff coming and hopefully some of the pupils I’ve taught over the last 19 years. It’s a joy to find out what they are doing; what jobs they’ve got and what they are involved in.”
Diane said that a highlight of her time at Westbury Leigh had been the construction of their “superb” new school back in 2004, which was opened by Prince Edward.
“He came along with Sophie and spent a lot of time chatting to the children. That was a very special day,” said Diane. “The Victorian building was very small and intimate but we really did outgrow it and it was not fit for purpose in the end.”
Diane said she was looking forward to concentrating on her hobbies of amateur dramatics and volunteering as a Guide leader, but would miss working with her pupils.
She said, “I’ve been teaching for 30 odd years in total and it’s the children I’ll miss the most. I won’t miss the paper work, which has steadily increased over the years!
“Taking the children away for residential trips have been special moments because that’s when children do new things and conquer their fears. To watch them going through those moments is quite special. We’ve done lot of plays and musicals over the years and those stick in my mind as happy events where children have blossomed.
“I hope that I have given the children I’ve taught the skills to take their learning forward. it’s not about learning dates and facts, it’s about giving them some independence of learning so they can apply that wherever they are.”
Those wishing to attend the leaving party should RSVP to Elaine Shobbrook on 01373 822230 or e-mail: admin@westburyleigh.wilts.sch.uk. If you would like to make a contribution towards a gift, please forward to the school for the attention of Elaine.
Pictured: Diane Bouault.