A DEPUTY head teacher took part in morning assembly for the last time before retiring after 27 years at the same primary school.

John Williams has been a popular deputy head teacher at Ysgol y Waun, Gwernaffield but decided the time was right to start a new chapter of his life.

He now plans to spend more time watching his beloved Liverpool Football Club which won’t be easy as his wife and two sons are Man United fans.

Hafod Federation head teacher Louise Ankers presented Mr Williams with an array of retirement gifts at an emotional leaver’s assembly at the school on the last day of term.

She praised Mr Williams’ contribution to the school over more than a quarter of a century.

She said: “Mr Williams has taught hundreds of pupils over his 27 years at this school. In fact he taught many people who now have children of their own at the school who have also benefited from his wonderful style of teaching.

“His retirement is a loss to the school but I can understand his desire to take things in a different direction.

“He has been a devoted and highly professional teacher at Ysgol Y Waun and everyone, pupils, parents and staff wish him well for a long, healthy and happy retirement.”

She added: “We are also saying goodbye to eight Year 6 pupils who are moving on to a new challenge as they end their primary school education and start a new chapter of their lives at secondary school.

“All eight have really done well and I know their parents, the school and teachers are proud of them and know they are as well equipped as they possibly could be for the new challenges they face.”

Mr Williams, who hails from Northop but now lives in Buckley, said he had thoroughly enjoyed his time at Ysgol Y Waun but just felt the time was right to retire.

He said: “It’s such a wonderful school and I take away so many memories. It’s been such a wonderful place to work and the pupils, throughout the years, have been amazing.

“We benefit from being a small school which means pupils get opportunities they might not necessarily get in a larger school. I also think the federation between this school and Ysgol Gwernymynydd is a good thing that can only benefit both schools and both communities.”

He added: “I can’t deny I’ll miss being at school and engaging with pupils on a daily basis. However, I leave with the school in very good hands.

“I’m delighted to receive such wonderful gifts and to have a Liverpool FC photograph signed by the players wishing me well in retirement is really special – although with a wife and two sons who support Man United I might have an argument on where I can hang it!”