HEADTEACHER Deborah Northin has closed the school gates behind her for the last time.

Mrs Northin has retired after five years as head of Beech House, the infant department of Bolton School.

She said: “As head of Beech House I have enjoyed leading a talented and committed staff team at the infant school, and as line manager for Bolton School Nursery and Kidzone, Bolton School's holiday and wrap around care.

"Being part of the larger Bolton School Foundation has been a very important element for me and I am proud to have ended my teaching career within this prestigious organisation.

"Throughout my teaching career I have aimed to make a difference for children and part of the job I will dearly miss as I approach a life without daily contact with those bright eyed and lively pupils.”

Mrs Northin, who lives in Clitheroe, studied at Bath University and started working in comprehensive schools in Hampshire.

She later moved to Lancashire with husband Steve and spent time at home bringing up her daughters Emily and Abigail.

Mrs Northin said: "Once they were at school I decided to return to my career — retraining as a primary teacher.

"An opportunity to teach year six at Westholme followed and after a few years there I was asked to lead their infant and nursery department at Billinge House.

"After 13 years at Westholme, ten as head of infants and nursery I moved to Bolton School."

Miss Sue Hincks, headmistress of the Bolton School girls' division, said: "It is impossible to do justice to Debbie’s devotion and commitment to the children and staff under her care; we all owe her a huge debt of gratitude."

Mrs Northin was given a fitting send-off by pupils and teachers in a special leaving assembly which saw the nursery, reception, year one and year two classes gather to perform tribute song and dance routines for her, while she enjoyed afternoon tea and cakes.