TWO LONG-SERVING TEACHERS RETIRE FROM NORTH WALSHAM HIGH SCHOOL
Two long-serving teachers with 40 years’ service between them have retired from North Walsham High School at the end of the summer term. Assistant head teacher Dominic James and head of induction Ros Fretwell said goodbye to colleagues and students today (Wednesday 20th July).
Drama and English teacher Mr James has been assistant head at the school for 15 years, during which time he was instrumental in winning arts specialist status for the school, which led directly to the building of The Atrium building. Prior to joining NWHS he taught at Sprowston High School. In retirement he is moving to the US with his American wife.
“The biggest change in my time here has been the building itself,” said Mr James. “Fifteen years ago there were 15 mobile classrooms; now we have some of the best facilities of any school in Norfolk, and that has had a hugely positive impact on the students.”
Mrs Fretwell retires after 25 years at the school, where she has performed a number of roles including head of Key Stage 4, head of Year 11 and head of induction. She has also taught A-levels at Paston College during her time at the school. Originally from Kings Lynn, she started her teaching career in Worcestershire before moving back to her home county.
“I have loved every minute of my time at North Walsham,” she said. “I have now seen two generations of students go through, and have taught the children of some of my earlier students. It’s a great community here.”
Thanking the pair for their long service, and wishing them a happy retirement, NWHS head teacher Neil Powell said, “Dominic and Ros have between them given many years service to the school, and have played a part in making it the school it is today. They have both seen many changes, and it’s good to hear them proclaim those changes as positive.
“We wish them both a long and happy retirement.”