19/12/2025
I was 21and fresh out of university when I came to look around Great Steeping, hoping for the opportunity of a job. The school was frantically preparing for an Ofsted visit the very next day, yet everyone still took the time to welcome me with smiles. I must have made an impression, as Mr Casswell and Mrs Clowsley still recall some of the things I said and did that day. The day of my interview Mrs Hodson put on a buffet and I knew this was the place I needed to be. Thanks Grandma!
I began working in Years 1 and 2, and after a year I moved into Reception to cover maternity leave – a role that truly reflected where my heart and specialism lay. I was incredibly lucky to work alongside so many supportive helpers. Mrs Hezzel, who always had so much time for the children, truly had the biggest heart. Mrs Parish visited weekly to help, support us, and fulfil her role as a governor. Mrs Mowbray supported us with crafts, art and reading, and even before Mrs Edwards worked here, she always found time to come in despite running a nursery.
We have shared so many wonderful moments over the years – from watching the Head carry the Olympic torch, to Royal weddings, coronations, pantomimes, nativity performances, and sports days. On a personal level, my work family have been a huge part of my life. They attended my wedding day, supported me as I raised my two boys, and helped me through some tough times. The Teaching Assistants at Great Steeping have been an integral part of my life, always supporting me, pushing me, and challenging me – not only in my work, but in my life. They have made my time here so enjoyable, helping me feel reassured and at ease.
Then there is my partner in crime, Miss Dunkin. I have taught her so much and I am incredibly proud of myself! Joking aside, I mentored her when she first started, and we quickly became the best of friends. We have shared countless conversations about problems and achievements, enjoyed many after work brews and made endless plans outside of work too. I’ll need a little time to adjust to not having her organising me anymore!
Mr Cooper joined us after the Covid years, and what a breath of fresh air he was. Although we didn’t see each other often at first, we soon discovered we shared a similar sense of humour and the same views in the classroom, which made working together genuinely enjoyable.
The parents have been incredibly supportive over the years, with many becoming friends as we shared life experiences and worked together to get the very best for their children.
I have thoroughly enjoyed making such a meaningful impact on children’s lives, and I will miss working with the little ones so much. I love their innocence, their imagination, and the joy we share every day. No two days are ever the same, and that is what has made this job so special.
So, after 16 incredible years, it was time for me to say goodbye. Wednesday was a very emotional and sad day and leaving was far harder than I ever imagined. This school has been such a huge part of my life, and saying farewell to a place filled with so many memories and so much love was truly overwhelming.
I am now looking forward to spending more precious time with my boys, before they grow up far too quickly, while holding close everything this school has given me.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to everyone who has been part of my journey here and for making this school such a special, caring and welcoming place. Thank you for every kind word, every hug, every thoughtful gift and every well wish — they meant more to me than I can put into words.
I won’t be a stranger. I will keep in touch and visit whenever I can.
Have a wonderful Christmas!
With lots of love,
Mrs Wilkinson x
