Deputy headteacher Vivien Hinde, and secretaries Jenny Doncaster and Peggy Gorman all retired at the end of term after chalking up more than 60 years at the Newgate school between them.

Headteacher Darren Redfern said: “All three women have been an asset to the school over the years they have been here and the whole community of St Joseph’s, both past and present, would like to wish them all the best for the future.”

Mr Redfern said Mrs Hinde was renowned for her boundless energy and acting deputy headteacher Hazel Wilby described the two secretaries as the heart of the school, adding: “They were always there for everyone.”

Saying goodbye to the school was particularly emotional for Mrs Hinde, who was once a pupil there herself, just like her father.

The 59-year-old began her career their as a teacher and was acting headteacher three times.

She said: “It has been a privilege and a pleasure working with a wonderful, hard-working pupils and supportive parents.”

Mrs Hinde said she has plenty to keep her busy during her retirement because she likes to keep fit and go to the gym and enjoys gardening. She added: “I might even take up sewing again.”

But she said she will always find time to pop into the school and say hello.