The Buchan School has paid tribute to retiring members of staff.

At the end of the autumn term, the school bade farewell to Deputy Head John Foster, who first joined the school in 1991.

John and his wife Jill were appointed to run Junior Boarding at The Buchan when it was amalgamated with King Williams College (KWC), a role that called for the pastoral care of pupils from all over the world in addition to supervision of their academic progress.

With his keen interest in people, John was involved in youth work during his early career, and this helped to develop his recreational skills and a broad understanding of the social conditions that facilitate learning. 

After a number of years spent as head of the Prep Department, John was appointed Deputy Head and has demonstrated a consistent commitment to the school and his pupils.  A farewell tribute was paid by fellow colleague Ann Cottier who said, "Many pupils have been blessed by your patience and firm but fair handling and will be the better off by your guidance." 

Now enjoying his freedom from school routines for the first time in 55 years, John has wholeheartedly embraced the idea of 2010 as his GAP year, with plans to travel and to devote time to several artistic projects.
 
Also retiring from The Buchan School after an exemplary career in education is teacher Joyce Morton.  Joyce joined College in 1985 with an original appointment for one term; the fact that she went on to teach at both College and Buchan for nearly 25 years (over 20 of them at the Buchan) is testament to both her loyalty and consistently high levels of achievement.

Colleagues describe her as a person of quiet determination, a driving force behind the scenes.  When setting up a Junior House at KWC, Joyce worked tirelessly, and she was often found backstage during performances, adding the last minute touches that would ensure everything was ready.

During her career, Joyce taught every age-group in the school, specialising in English and History, but it is her creativity and her efforts to bring a different dimension to classroom learning that pupils will remember.

Joyce will also be remembered for being an excellent listener and a true professional whose calm diplomacy was respected by pupils and colleagues alike.  Now enjoying spending time with family and friends, she is relishing the opportunity to explore new horizons.

Mrs Alison Hope Hedley, Buchan School Head Teacher, also paid tribute to John and Joyce, adding comments on their unique contributions to learning both in the classroom, and in the work they did with pupils during their many years at the Buchan School.

Alison Hope Headley said, "They will both be much missed by the whole Buchan community who have benefited from their support and advice over the years. We wish them well in their much deserved retirement".

Finally, farewells were also said to Val Chorley, who was a cook at the Buchan School for over 30 years, and whose efforts greatly contributed towards making the Buchan not only a school for its pupils but also a home.

Pictured (l-r): Joyce Morton, John Foster and Val Chorley.