Pupils, staff and parents at a Swansea primary school will be saying goodbye to their popular head teacher as the doors close for the Christmas holidays.
But Eric Starkey, who has spent more than 13 years at the helm of Trallwn Primary, isn’t planning to settle down to a quiet life.
The motorcycle enthusiast hopes to spend more time on two wheels as well as fulfilling a lifelong ambition to go and see a cricket test match abroad.
Liverpool-born Eric joined the school in January 1996 and has thrown himself into school life.
He said: “My job has been about the joys of children growing up and you feel that especially at this time of year.
“I’ve had all the joys of parenthood whilst being able to send them home at 4 o’clock!
“The other fantastic thing about my work has been the variety because no two days are the same. This is sometimes a mixed blessing!”
Staff and pupils at the school along with parents, governors and other heads have arranged a number of events to celebrate his time with the school.
Cllr Mike Day, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, said: “I’d like to thank Eric Starkey for his dedication and his caring and enthusiastic approach to the school.
“I’m sure he will enjoy a fulfilling retirement.”
Richard Parry, Director of Education at Swansea Council, said: “Eric’s leadership at Trallwn School brought a sense of calm combined with high expectations within a secure learning environment which has been much valued by the whole school community.
“We wish him a long, happy and healthy retirement.”
