A TEACHER who has played an “integral part” over decades at a Christchurch school is set to retire.

Mrs Jennifer Sibbald, the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) at The Priory CE Primary School, will be retiring on March 29 after almost 40 years.

Mrs Sibbald, known as Jenny, is described as “a Priory School legend” whose contributions over the years are “valued enormously”.

The school’s Headteacher, Paul Ruffle, said: “For 38 and a half years, she has been an integral part of the Priory family, loved by generations of children, parents and staff team.”

Jenny’s time at The Priory began in October 1985, when she joined as a ‘'probationer’.

Since then, she has filled a number of crucial roles at the school and has taught across every year group in the school.

Bournemouth Echo: One of the first photos of Jenny at The PrioryOne of the first photos of Jenny at The Priory (Image: The Priory CE Primary School)

She is currently the school’s SENCO and has spent the last 20 years teaching early years, which is described as her “true passion”.

Jenny said: “I have loved every aspect of teaching at the Priory School and while I look forward to many new and exciting adventures, I will dearly miss the magic of seeing the children learn and develop.

“It has been such a privilege and there have been many, many highlights over the years.”

Jenny, who is now aged 60, is estimated to have taught approximately 1,000 pupils during her time at The Priory.

Rebecca Clapcott, whose four children had Jenny as a teacher, described how her son Archie had “thrived” under her care.

She said: “When our son Archie came under Mrs Sibbald’s care as a little four-year-old with a new diagnosis of autism and an unmedicated diagnosis of ADHD, she was by his side through thick and thin.

“It is no exaggeration to say she literally changed our lives for the better and I cannot thank her enough.”

Geoff Tabor, the chair of governors at The Priory, also had children taught by Jenny. He said: "Jenny has been an absolute stalwart of The Priory School for decades.

“She has nurtured children, including my own, from their first footsteps into school - treating them gently and kindly - and importantly, preparing them well for their future education.”

On Jenny’s last day, there will be a special afternoon tea at the school, followed by a Spring Gala held in her honour.

There will also be tributes made from classes throughout the day.