A POPULAR teacher received a send-off to remember as she retired after 47 years of service at a Linwood school.

Kay Cowie, 67, was greeted by well-wishers of all ages when she arrived at East Fulton Primary on Friday, June 24 as part of a leaving celebration.

There was a tribute event held in the assembly hall, followed by an afternoon tea ‘garden party’ event in the school grounds.

Kay was given a crown and sash to wear so she could be ‘Queen of the school’ for the day, with pupils bowing and curtsying as a mark of respect.

The much-loved teacher, who first started at East Fulton Primary in 1975 at the age of 20, told The Gazette: “I’m going to miss working at the school dreadfully, as I’ve been here for such a long time.

“I know some of the families so well, as I’ve now taught the grandchildren of some of my former pupils.

“I’ll miss teaching the primary ones the most. They are all such wee characters and make your day so worthwhile.

“There’s always been wonderful staff, fantastic children, supportive parents and great community involvement here, so why would you want to go anywhere else?”

The Gazette: A garden party was held in the school groundsA garden party was held in the school grounds

Kay believes the biggest change during her many years as a teacher has been the advances made in technology.

She said: “When I started, it was Banda machines and overhead projectors but now it’s photocopiers and computers.

“While in the past you had to make your own visual aids, now you can find whatever you’re looking for on the internet.

“I really appreciate that parents trusted me with their children and the support that they and all my colleagues have given me throughout the years.”

Lauren McChlery, depute head at East Fulton Primary, said: “We are devastated to be losing such an amazing teacher, as Mrs Cowie has been a huge part of our school for 47 years.

“She is so loved by us all – the staff, pupils, parents and the community – so we are gutted to see her go but delighted that she’s now got a happy time ahead of her.”

Staff at East Fulton Primary have also said a fond farewell to headteacher Gillian Ward, who has retired after 17 years of service.

Lauren added: “Gillian has been an amazing teacher and led the school to being the wonderful place that it is just now, so we really appreciate all she has done during her time here.”