‘It’s all I ever wanted to do’: Dedicated Northampton headteacher set to retire after nearly 40 years in the industry

A Northampton headteacher who has worked in the industry for nearly 40 years is preparing to retire.

Ann Taylor has worked at Kingsley Primary School for four years - as headteacher for two, and will retire from teaching at next Friday (March 26).

Fittingly, in the run-up to her stepping down, the 59-year-old won a Rose of Northamptonshire award in recognition of her hard work as she continued to run the school and help families during the pandemic.

Now the teacher is reflecting on her long career in which she has taught and supported many children.

Mrs Taylor said: “When I left university, teaching was all I ever wanted to do.

“I did a postgraduate course and got a job. I have been teaching ever since other than during a break to have my own children.

“A lot has changed since I started teaching, some good, some probably not, but I love working with children and families and it has been a great career.”

During lockdown, Mrs Taylor and her team have delivered meals to their families, handed out iPads and laptops and even stood on doorsteps to check their children and families were coping.

It is these selfless acts that led to both the headteacher and her school winning separate awards to recognise how they have gone above and beyond for families during the pandemic.

Mrs Taylor added: “The last year has been the most challenging time since I have been teaching, but children are the same whatever is happening and they look to us.

“In that sense, it has been a good time as we have been able to help children and families who are struggling.

“That is part that I have always enjoyed - working with and being involved with children.

“The award is an amazing honour and it was such a surprise.

“So many of the adults here have done amazing things during lockdown.

“There has been so much hard work here and it’s nice that someone has recognised that.”

With just a few weeks left at school, the headteacher is sad to be saying goodbye, but also looking forward to what the future may hold.

“There is a mixture of emotions surrounding retiring,” Mrs Taylor continued.

“I’m sad to be leaving as it’s a great place to work and it’s such a nice community.

“But it is also a chance to do something different. I’m not sure what yet but I’m sure an opportunity will arise to do something different.”

Assisstant headteacher Lynne DAlessio added that Mrs Taylor will be ‘missed very much’ by all the staff and children.

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