A retiring headteacher has won the ‘Favourite Teacher’ award in a local competition.
Peter Jenkins, of Libanus Primary School, won the competition hosted by Ystrad Mynach coffee shop Gaffaccino’s.
The award is just one of 100 cards, gifts and farewell messages he has received after retiring from working full-time at the school after more than 35 years.
Mr Jenkins taught Year 6 from 1979 to 2012, during which time he was also deputy head. For the past three years he has served as headteacher.
After teaching many of the parents who now take their children to the school, Mr Jenkins recalled the changes he has seen over his career.
He has seen additions to the 100-year-old building and the almost doubling of pupils from 230 when he started to 400 in 2015.
He said: “I have so many fantastic memories at this school. If I had to pick one it has to be the recent week-long celebration to mark the centenary of the school.
“It was a truly memorable week that was extra special for me knowing that it was my last term as headteacher.
“Education is ever evolving and it has been a pleasure to be a part of a school that has thrived in the face of changes and new challenges.
“I will be very sad to leave the school as it has been a huge part of my life.”
But Mr Jenkins, who lives just behind the school, is not planning to go far during his retirement as after a short holiday he will be returning to the school, where his grandson is now a pupil, as a supply teacher.
Cabinet Member for Education and Lifelong Learning, Cllr Rhianon Passmore, said: “Teachers play a vital role in the community, and Peter has dedicated his career to Libanus Primary School and he will be a great loss. I would like to wish him all the best for the future.”