Long-serving teacher retires after 37 years at Sheffield school

A long-serving Sheffield teacher is retiring after devoting her entire career to the same school.
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Helen Davies, 58, joined Phillimore Community Primary School in September 1983 as a newly qualified teacher after studying at Sheffield City Polytechnic, now known at Sheffield Hallam University.

After over three decades at the school in Darnall, she is now retiring and will be sorely missed by pupils and their families alike.

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Helen Davies is retiring after 37 years at Phillimore Community Primary SchoolHelen Davies is retiring after 37 years at Phillimore Community Primary School
Helen Davies is retiring after 37 years at Phillimore Community Primary School
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Helen said: “Phillimore School has always been unique. The range of cultures and religions has made Phillimore diverse in so many different ways. The children and parents of Phillimore are always welcoming and friendly so I’ve never wanted to go anywhere else.

"Also, the staff are a team and I have made some great friends who are always there for each other.”

Teaching was always a dream job for Helen, who was inspired to work with children after helping out in the special educational needs (SEN) unit while in Sixth Form at High Storrs School.

She has fond memories of the last 37 years – which includes her class being selected for two events at Don Valley Stadium, singing alongside Michael Jackson in 1997 and dancing at the Bollywood opening ceremony in 2007.

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When asked about her retirement plans, Helen said that she is going to sort out her garden, go travelling with her niece, and do more archery which is her new hobby.

Her son is also getting married so she hopes to welcome grandchildren in the not too distant future.

Headteacher Gillian Briggs said: “If there is anybody committed to the children and families at Phillimore it is Helen Davies. In her 37 years at school, Helen has taught over 1,100 children – 1,100 very lucky children. Her proactive approach and her willingness to make a difference to those around her is truly commendable.

"Helen is Phillimore. She is like a stick of rock – if you were to cut her in half she would have Phillimore written through her! Everyone at school, staff, children, mums and dads, will miss Helen very much.

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"I wish her all the very best in her retirement and want to personally thank her for all her support, hard work and unwavering commitment.”

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