‘Through her dedication and care, she has supported generations of children, helping shape the warm, nurturing ethos the school is known for’
Wendy Clayden retires from Dunswell Academy after 25 years at the Primary School(Image: Donna Clifford/Hull Live)
An East Riding primary school has said goodbye to one of its longest-serving teaching assistants, who is retiring after 25 years of employment at Dunswell Academy. Wendy Clayden, 66, was described as a “very special lady” and a “lovely friend” by colleagues.
Mrs Clayden’s last day at the Beverley Road school was on Wednesday, March 25. As pupils and staff said farewell and wished her a happy retirement, she was thanked for her long service and contribution to pupils’ education.
As a teaching assistant, Mrs Clayden’s role changed a lot over the years, and she taught whole classes of children, small groups, and 1.1 interventions. She was particularly renown for her ability at teaching CLIC, a fast-past maths session.
Colleagues noted how she would take new staff under her wing, and they “can’t imagine the school without her”. In another goodbye message, someone said: “Wendy taught my son over 17 years ago and she has been a friend ever since. I will miss her dearly.”
One colleague described the “passion and love” Mrs Clayden had for the children as “inspiring”. Another added: “Dunswell will miss having a ‘Mrs Clayden’ around the school.”
Chris Huscroft, CEO of Edukos Trust, which runs the school, said: “Wendy has been a constant in the life of Dunswell Academy for 25 years.
“Through her dedication and care, she has supported generations of children, helping shape the warm, nurturing ethos the school is known for.
“We are incredibly grateful for her service and wish her every happiness in her well-deserved retirement. For 25 years, Wendy has touched the lives of so many children.
“Her contribution to our school has been truly exceptional, and I thank her for everything she has given and the dedication she has shown.”
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