Helen Airey, a 57-year-old teacher from Bebington, is retiring from St Joseph's Catholic Primary School in Wallasey this summer after 34 years of dedicated service. She joined the school in 1992 as a Year 2 teacher and later became the school's Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator (SENDCo), supporting children with additional needs.
A Career of Change and Dedication
Reflecting on her career, Airey noted the significant changes in education since she started. 'When I first started teaching, we didn't even have a photocopier for us to use. We didn't have computers, and I didn't even have a mobile phone. So it was very different,' she told the ECHO. Despite the technological advancements, she emphasized that the heart of the school remains unchanged: 'We're more than just a school. We love everybody who comes through the doors.'
Teaching Generations of Families
One of the most rewarding aspects of Airey's career has been teaching former pupils who later returned as parents. 'I can still remember my very first class bizarrely. I've ended up teaching their children. I've taught parents, aunties, uncles, and now their children, too. That's been really nice to see,' she said. She also recalled former pupils reaching out to say she was their inspiration, which meant a great deal to her.
Specialist Support for Additional Needs
As SENDCo, Airey helped many families navigate the education system. 'The special needs job I've done has meant I've been able to do a bit more for some children who perhaps needed it. I've helped them get to special schools or find the right support if they weren't managing in mainstream education,' she explained. She also took pride in helping children learn to read, stating, 'To me, it is so important that children don't leave primary school unable to read.'
Memorable Experiences Beyond the Classroom
Airey cherished taking children on trips, many of whom had limited life experiences. 'When we've gone on trips to museums, on the ferry or to Chester Zoo, for many of them it was their first experience. That's always been really rewarding and driven me,' she said.
Bittersweet Retirement
Airey will leave St Joseph's on July 17. Despite her mixed emotions, she believes it is the right time. 'I don't feel like I've lost that zest for learning or the children, but it just felt like the right time to go. I'm excited for new challenges, and I feel like I've still got things to give,' she said. She plans to travel, spend time with friends, and focus on herself for a change. 'I'll mostly miss the children. Every morning, they run over and give you a hug or ask how you are. I'll miss their happiness, their innocence, and all the fun with the staff and in school life. But at some point you've got to just say, 'right, I'm going now'. I think it's time for someone else to take over.'
