On Wednesday 15 July, staff and friends gathered at St. John’s C of E Primary School in Shildon to celebrate a truly momentous occasion!
For over 50 years, Mrs Maureen McKimm has worked at St. John’s Primary School as a cleaner, and later, as school caretaker. After many years of service, Maureen has finally retired from working at the school.
She is well-known around school and in the local community. Maureen has dedicated her whole life to school – to the children, staff and families – always wanting the best for them. She has many happy memories of her time at St. John’s.
Without doubt, Maureen loved making a difference in school. Her kind and caring nature was always focused towards the children. She went above and beyond in everything she did.
Celebrations continued with refreshments and cream scones, sharing stories together and reminiscing about the past. Maureen was presented with a substantial chocolate hamper as she is a self-confessed chocaholic!
The staff each chose a word to describe Maureen and it was made into a word cloud. Words such as: strong, dedicated, feisty, authentic, generous, caring and kind, were all included. As Maureen very much likes cats, she was also given a decorative porcelain cat as part of her leaving gift.
Maureen spoke about how she is already enjoying her time away from work, sitting outside in her garden with her cat. Staff at St. John’s wish Maureen all the best, hoping she will have a long and happy retirement.
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
