A TEACHING assistant is saying goodbye to pupils after an amazing 34 years.

Liz Sweeting started at Unity Primary Academy in Colchester when it was known as St Andrew’s School.

She has progressed from a volunteer to a learning support assistant and said over the years has witnessed many positive changes.

Mrs Sweeting’s two daughters went to the school and they

inspired her to start work there.

The grandmother, from Colchester, said: “I started off as a helper and then worked full time as a learning support assistant.

“When my eldest daughter started at the school the teacher asked if anyone wanted to do some cooking.

“After a few years I got friendly with the teachers and they said the needed help with special educational needs and it prompted me to stay.”

She fell in love with the idea of supporting pupils and watching them progress. She said: “I wanted to be supportive of my own children and it seemed to be the ideal thing to do to learn how to help them at home.

“Every day is different and it still is all those years later.”

Her role has changed slightly with the times as the national curriculum has changed.

She said: “Many years ago they used to have parents come in to help with cooking and reading.

“It’s more of a teaching role now than it was in those days.

“The school has only changed for the better to adapt with modern times as the national curriculum had changed.

“It has a strong team of staff and they are really friendly.”

The school changed to Unity Primary Academy four years ago.

Mrs Sweeting will stay at the school until the end of the half term in October but has plans to relax after retirement.

She said: “I’m 65 now so I will be a lady who lunches. Most of my friends have already retired.

“I will also be there for my daughters and grandchildren.”

Lucy Williams, co-headteacher at the school, said Liz has been an asset for the past 34 years.

She said: “Thousands of children have benefited from her warm, nurturing nature and support with their learning.

“Liz has gone above and beyond, helping children new to the country learn English, giving children a safe, fun place to be at lunchtimes and being an amazing colleague to work with.

“Everyone here will miss her greatly but wish her a happy and well-deserved retirement.”

A celebration assembly will take place on October 25. Students are asked to send memories to admin@unityprimaryacademy.com.