Long time Bishopmill Primary School administrator retires after 28 years of service
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A LONG time Bishopmill Primary School administrator bid an emotional farewell earlier this week after nearly three decades of service.
Joyce Rose worked at the school for 28 years but called time on her lengthy career after retiring on Tuesday. She was surprised by Bishopmill pupils and colleagues alike in the playground before being played out by two bagpipers from Elgin Academy.
"As soon as I heard the pipes that was me, I was gone," Joyce said.
"I've been trying not to greet all week. I don't even know the words to be honest. The send off was just amazing.
"I was ok all day but I thought something was up because the school was dead silent especially at lunch time. I did suspect something but I honestly didn't expect that."
Joyce has witnessed many families from the community come through the school over the years including her own and leaves with plenty of good memories.
"Some of the kids that are here now have parents who were here when I was here," said Joyce.
"That includes my daughter when she first started so I'll really miss that part of it - seeing people grow up.
"I have loads of fond memories here. I'm going to miss the kids and staff a lot. They've been so amazing.
"I've just really enjoyed it and everything that I've done here really."
Despite the emotional farewell, Joyce is welcoming retirement and is looking forward to a few well earned long lies as well as her continued involvement with New Elgin Football Club.
"It will be nice not having to get up so early to get into work I must admit," Joyce said.
"I'm looking forward to doing anything that I want to do really now.
"I'm involved with the local football club and I'm still going to be doing things with them in my retirement. One thing is for sure, I'll be kept busy so I have no worries there.
"It's just going to be different. Totally different."
