Pupils, staff and parents at a Ruddington school bade a fond farewell this week to the man who has been their Head Teacher for the past twelve years.
After working thirty years in education, John Mapperley has retired from the post he has held at St Peter’s Junior School since January 2008 to pursue other options. A ‘farewell party’ was held for the departing Head on Thursday – whose last official day in the job was yesterday (Friday 20th December).
Mr Mapperley tells RUDDINGTON.info there have been many memorable moments during those twelve years: “Probably the biggest annual highlight has been the time every year when we gather feedback from parents and I get to sit and read of the impact the school has had for its pupils. So many parents take huge trouble to let us know how important our work has been for them and their child” he explains. “Other highlights would be some of the brilliant shows that children have put on for parents over the years, the year when our girls’ cricket and football teams made the National Finals and listening to the school’s choir – always a privilege.”
Mr Mapperley reveals his proudest achievement has been the team of very talented staff he leaves to his successor – and the St Peter’s site itself – the building and grounds: “As a staff we have developed expertise in too many ways to mention and the pupils benefit accordingly, particularly disadvantaged and Pupils with Special Needs – it is a very inclusive place with a strong emphasis on pupil wellbeing. My predecessor planted the many trees that form beautiful woodlands on the enormous site over 30 years ago now – some parents remember planting them (it was this which first attracted me to the place). In the last 12 years we have made these woodlands an integral part of our curriculum and doing so is always a highlight of the pupil experience here.” However he notes with concern that this area has been inaccessible for large parts of the last three years due both to flooding and drought – perhaps a worrying indication of ‘climate change’ being experienced even here in Ruddington?
He has overseen a good deal of investment at St Peter’s during his tenure, too. The building has had well over £1.5 million spent on it by the Local Authority, including electrical work, heating, roofing, windows, cladding and refurbishments. “It is a beautifully spacious place to work and learn” he says. “I’m not moving on as such, I’m semi-retiring. My plan is to take a bit of break and then to work 2 or 3 days a week in an educational field, possibly teacher training. Headship is the most rewarding of roles but it is also all-consuming – and there is much I would like to do with the latter end of my working career.”
Micheal Bradley has been appointed as his successor, and will begin his new role at the start of January, when the school reopens after the Christmas and New Year holidays.
Mr Mapperley adds: “I hope Mr Bradley enjoys the Ruddington community, the staff, the site and the spirit of the place as much as I have. Ruddington is a great place to live and work!”
