Diane Cavanagh, 61, from Walton, is retiring after 34 years of service at Arnot St Mary CE Primary School on Arnot Street. She started on April 2, 1992, working just three mornings a week while caring for her baby son. Her first task involved a manual copying machine with a handle and carbon paper, a far cry from today's digital office.
From Photocopying to Business Manager
When the school's business manager role became available, then-headteacher Neil Shenton offered it to Diane. She accepted and never looked back. Over three decades, she supported thousands of pupils and families, worked with hundreds of colleagues, and served under four headteachers. Her own two children and two nieces attended the school and have gone on to become nurses, electricians, teachers, and business owners.
Diane told the ECHO: "I’ve loved every minute. It was really hard because you were their mum, and they couldn’t call you mum. They had to call you, Miss. But I’ve always been happy coming to work. I’ve always skipped in, and I’ve never gone to bed on a Sunday night and thought, ‘Oh, I’ve got work tomorrow’. It’s not been like a job."
A Shared Chapter with Her Husband
Diane's retirement coincides with that of her husband, Ronnie Cavanagh, who worked as the school's caretaker for 14 years. They handed in their notices together. Diane said: "When I told the rest of the staff, one of the girls, who is a really good friend of mine, got upset, and I found it so difficult."
The decision to retire was not easy, but with five grandchildren eager to spend more time with her, Diane feels the time is right. She plans to enjoy holidays outside school term dates and continue giving back through voluntary work, possibly for Liverpool and Everton football clubs.
Community Spirit and Legacy
Diane is proud of the school's community spirit. She said: "Everybody who walks in our school says how lovely we are, how friendly. The staff care for the children and they want the best for the pupils. And that’s what it’s all about. Arnot will always be a special place in my heart, always."
Headteacher Dan Paton praised Diane: "For almost 35 years, Diane has been at the heart of Arnot St Mary CofE Primary School. A true dynamo, she has worked tirelessly in our busy school office, keeping everything running smoothly while giving her heart and soul to our children, families and the wider school community. Diane’s careful oversight of the school’s finances has been exemplary. She has ensured the school’s financial stability for many years. Her dedication, loyalty and the warm welcome she extended to everyone who walked through our doors have been second to none. Diane will be greatly missed by staff, pupils, governors and families alike. We thank her for her remarkable service and wish her a long, happy and blessed retirement."
Reflecting on her career, Diane said: "It is scary. It’s the unknown and the uncertainty, but you’ve got to retire someday. I can’t always work. But it’s the next chapter of my life, and I’m looking forward to it."
