A teaching assistant is saying goodbye to the classroom after more than 50 years with the same school.
Mary Lane has retired from Albert Primary School in Penarth after 53 years of service.
Beginning her career at the school when her own children were pupils, Ms Lane has since supported generations of students—continuing even after her grandchildren completed their time there.
Andrew Gilbert, headteacher at Albert Road Primary School, said: "Mrs Lane has been an integral part of the school community touching the lives of countless pupils and families. Her remarkable commitment and genuine love for both the school and its children has left an incredible mark.
"Thank you Mrs Lane for your years of dedication and for being an extraordinary part of our school’s journey."
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Ms Lane’s long and dedicated career began after she attended a PTA meeting at the school, and it set her on a path that would see her become one of the longest-serving teaching assistants in the area.
She outlasted two generations of her own family at Albert Primary, with both her children, Steve and Jan, and her grandchildren, Ross and Scott, passing through the school during her tenure.
In addition to her time at Albert Primary, Ms Lane was also the first learning support assistant at the Church in Wales School in Penarth.
She remained in that post until the school closed in 2011.
Her contributions were celebrated at a retirement tea, where colleagues shared fond memories from her time at the school.
Ms Lane was presented with an engraved fruit bowl by the Parent Teacher Association (SOAP) on behalf of all the children and their families.
Her daughter, Jan Dennison, said: "We are all so super proud of you, Mum."
Her grandson, Ross Dennison, said: "You'll finally get to put those feet up, Nan. We love you."
Mary has previously been described as "the jewel" in the school's crown.
She worked under several headteachers during her time at the school, including Eunice Grove and Jenny Robbins at Albert Primary, and Ken Evans at the former Church in Wales School.
Albert Primary School is located on Albert Road, Penarth, in the Vale of Glamorgan.
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