STAFF and pupils at an Earley school will soon be thanking a much-loved member of staff for his long-standing service.
Mr Godfrey will be leaving at the end of this summer term after 48 years at at Maiden Erlegh secondary school.
“He is a much valued member of the community,” said headteacher Paul Gibson.
“He’s been at the school almost since it opened, 60 years ago.
“He’s had many roles – he’s been a PE teacher, head of PE, exams officer, and he led our Tyrabad outward bounds visits for pupils.”
Tyrabad was an outside education centre in Wales.
It was part-owned by Maiden Erlegh School, Emmbrook School in Wokingham, and Charters School in Ascot.
Pupils from year seven were able to travel there to take part in various outdoor activities.
“Mr Godfrey was a fervent supporter of Tyrabad,” said Mr Gibson.
“He was the real driver of the project, and was always passionate about giving pupils a chance to do something they’d perhaps never done before.”
The school is planning to give Mr Godfrey a keepsake to remember his time at Maiden Erlegh.
“When he retires in July, there will be a Staff Oscars presentation,” continued Mr Gibson.
“We would like to present him with a collection of special memories and photos.
“If anyone has any past photos, memories, and words about him that they would be happy to share, please could they send them to the school.
“Mr Godfrey will be missed 100%, continued Mr Gibson.
“He knows how the school works, and he does so much to support the running of it that isn’t seen.
“He’s always been a real servant to the students and to the community as a whole.
“He’s part of the furniture and he leaves a very big hole.”
Anyone wishing to contribute their pictures, thoughts and stories for Mr Godfrey’s keepsake gift should email them to Mr Pringle at Maiden Erlegh School: [email protected]
