Ruth’s special send-off after 32 years at Fressingfield school

A Fressingfield lunch time supervisor whose help to children has spread far beyond the dinner hall is retiring after 32 years.

Ruth Fenning, who lives in the village, has worked at Fressingfield Church of England VC School for so long that she now looks after some of the children of pupils who went to the school when she first began there. She has been involved in a variety of activities, such as helping children with their reading, school trips and nature walks, schools performances and concerts, cycling proficiency and helping run a Saturday wildlife group.

More importantly the children are fantastic. It is lovely to think I currently look after children whose parents I supervised years ago

The 71-year-old was treated to a surprise celebration last Thursday to mark her stint, and cites the school’s move to a bigger premises in 1997 among the highlights which are “too numerous to mention.”

“Fressingfield Primary is a delightful school and I have had a great time working there. Over the 32 years, I have worked with several headteachers and staff members who have all been very supportive,” she said. “More importantly the children are fantastic. It is lovely to think I currently look after children whose parents I supervised years ago.

“The school, families, children and past staff treated me to a surprise celebration last Thursday which included maypole dancing, singing and a tea party with cakes.

“The children presented me with cards and flower posies that they had made from their own gardens. I felt very special.”

Mark Taylor, headteacher at the school, added: “She is absolutely lovely and I don’t know anyone who has a bad word to say about her. The children love her to bits, as do the parents. I think she has got the magical touch. She is so loving and caring, and is a wonderful woman.”