'Dedicated' staff member Corinne Cooper retires from local primary school at age 80
A dedicated member of staff at a local primary school has retired after more than 30 years.
Corinne Cooper, 80, retired from Upton Primary School last week, where over the last three decades she has worked as a lollipop lady, cleaner, and a lunchtime supervisor.
The school showed its appreciation during an assembly held on Friday afternoon (January 16), which Mrs Cooper attended with her husband, Dave.
Headteacher Lynne Williamson, who has worked with Mrs Cooper for 32 years, described her as “amazing” and “a really lovely lady,” and praised her dedication to the community.
Mrs Williamson said: “A huge thanks for her dedication to our community and the children [...] she’ll be really missed, so a huge thank you.”
Mrs Cooper held all three job roles at one point, but gave up some roles over the years because of physical demands.
She maintained her role of lunchtime supervisor throughout her time at the school, however.
She said she had “totally enjoyed” working at the school, in particular the friends she has made.
She said: “That’s one of the biggest things, I’ve made friends and stayed friends.”
“I’ve always been looked after when anything’s been wrong.
“It’s just part of your life. I know it was only lunchtime, it’s an hour and a quarter, but it’s still a big part of your life, and it’s kept me going, and that’s a good thing,” she added.
During the assembly, Mrs Williamson said: “It’s a celebration for Mrs Cooper who has worked for our school ever since it opened.
“Her first day of work for Wakefield Council was the 1st April, 1990, and today is the very last day of Mrs Cooper’s work.
“We are proud of Mrs Cooper for working so hard for us for all of that time.”
Mrs Cooper was presented with a bouquet of flowers and a handmade card from each class, and — as an avid Doncaster Rovers supporter — was surprised by guest Mark Hughesman, marketing manager at the club.
Mrs Cooper was born in Lofthouse and attended Outwood Secondary Modern, leaving school at 15 and going to work at Wakefield’s Double Two, where she stayed for 22 years.
A number of pupils wished Mrs Cooper well in her retirement, and shared their memories of her time at the school.
Mason said: “Mrs Cooper is always smiling when she’s out on the playground, she’s so lovely.”
Zlata said: “Mrs Cooper is just such a lovely person. She’s kind to everyone and she helps people.”
Darcey said: “We’re going to miss Mrs Cooper so much.”
Alice said: “Mrs Cooper is always really nice and really helpful, you can go to her for anything.”
Albert said: “She’s worked here for 36 years, I’m going to miss her.”
Fred said: “I used to ask Mrs Cooper when her knee first started hurting if she could have a race with me.”
Although retiring, Mrs Cooper will be keeping in touch with the school and returning to help children with their reading.