A GARDEN will grow fond memories of two valued members of staff who are retiring from Queen Mary Avenue Infants' School after many years' service.
The first trees of a learning garden have been planted as head teacher Margaret Williams retires after ten years and Pamela Nicholson, a nursery leader, leaves after 39 years.
And to celebrate their hard-work, a time capsule was buried which included school photographs, a uniform, toys, and even a Grimsby Telegraph.
Mrs Williams said: "It feels fantastic that I am leaving the school on a high note by planting a tree for the learning copse.
"Children will learn about bio-diversity, the environment and it's a space that they can have quiet time in.
"I will especially miss the children and I am going to keep a close relationship with the school, even though I am retiring.
"I have no idea what I am going to do with my retirement, but I will definitely enjoy it.
"I have had an amazing relationship with parents, children and staff, too."
Mrs Williams said she has seen the school grow in size over the years.
She said: "We are now nearly at full capacity. We are currently developing new learning space and offices.
"I am thrilled that we have had excellent Ofsted reports and they have told us that they don't want to visit us for another two years. We are rising and improving every year and we couldn't have done it without the staff."
Nursery leader Pamela is sad and excited at the same time about her retirement – she will be going travelling.
"I have seen a lot of changes in size, families and children," she said.
"I have loved every minute of it and I will miss all the staff and children."
Deputy head teacher Pat Shuttleworth will act as head until a new one is appointed.
A wild plum and an acer tree were planted to create an entrance to the garden which will include seats, climbing plants, and shrubs. Green Futures and Twiggysticks Garden Services were there to help out.
Pete Allen of Green Futures said: "I am on the board of governors for the school and we will do anything to support this project to enable children to enjoy the outdoors.
"We will be planting dwarf apple trees, too, so the children can enjoy eating fruit."
