‘One-of-a-kind' teacher retires after 29 years in the classroom

Beloved teacher Helen O’Hara, has retired from Hadfield Infant School after 29 years, with colleagues, parents and pupils expressing their sadness at her departure.

Headteacher Mrs Dodd said “It’s a very sad occasion and not one that I thought we would see this year. Mrs O’Hara is definitely a one-of-a-kind wonderful teacher. She’s also a caring friend and a free-spirit and she’ll be missed greatly by everyone. She’s one of the most creative teachers I’ve ever met, and I hope that in her retirement she’ll be able to completely switch off, enjoy her nature walks, explore the world and continue with her artistic flair. I do also hope that she’ll return and share her fantastic talents with future generations at the school!” 

Mrs O’Hara, who has worked with five different headteachers during her time at the school, responded saying “Those words are very kind! Mrs Dodd has become a friend and she’s a great head for this school. I have mixed emotions about retiring as I’ve had nothing but love and support at Hadfield Infant School, from my fellow staff and from the children. I am excited to have another adventure though! I’m going to take some time to relax first, which is why I choose to leave at Easter so I can enjoy the springtime. I will really miss the school, but I’m ready to go.” 

Sharing more about her future plans, Helen explained how she and her husband, also a teacher who many will remember from Glossopdale School, had previously housed a family from Ukraine for over a year, and would like to visit them now that they have returned to Lviv, which is considered a safe area. 

She is however feeling spoilt for choice with the many things that she would like to do with her free time, saying, “I need to make a list! This is the first time in my life that I’m not tied to a school calendar. Whilst I’m still healthy I need to find out what else is out there.” 

Reflecting on health and her forthcoming birthday Helen said, “Teaching can be quite demanding physically, and as I’m now approaching 61 I plan on doing some strength training and getting as fit as I can.” 

The only child of a former teacher and a policeman, Helen spoke about her love of reading which she developed at an early age, and said she hopes this is her legacy with the children that she has taught, “At the start of the year you see children not necessarily valuing books, but then you watch the penny drop and see their love for reading grow and that’s magical. It’s the true joy in teaching.” 

When asked what her favourite part of the last 29 years was, Helen replied without hesitation, “Outdoor education. I haven’t been able to do as much of this as I’d have liked, but when you see children who don’t enjoy being the classroom out in woodlands, you see a different child. You can then use that rounded view of them to write their end of year report, as you’ve seen their leadership skills and the way they have supported others, which might not come out in the classroom. There is so much value in it. It’s sad that due to cutbacks we can’t do more, and in fact we’ve just discovered that the Longdendale Centre, where we were due to send some of our Year One’s, has just had to close. It’s very sad.” 

Described by Mrs Dodd as a ‘free-spirit’, Helen lights up when talking about music, singing and art, and the joy that has always brought her in the classroom. She equally remembers times of tears, specifically regarding the “time-consuming and often unnecessary paperwork which teachers have to try and find the time to do these days.” 

Musing over the one piece of advice that she would give to those new to teaching, she said “Look after your own wellbeing. No one can pour from an empty cup and your mental health is so important. Close the laptop, go for a walk, go and see your friends. Also, OFSTED isn’t as important as you worry about, schools still go on, it’s not the be-all and end-all of your career, even if you are made to feel that it’s everything.” 

As Mrs O’Hara prepared to teach one of her final classes she wanted to say thank you to all those she currently worked with, “A big thanks to Mrs Dodd who is perfect for this school as she genuinely cares, to all of my colleagues who have been so incredibly supportive as I’ve gone through births, deaths and marriages with them, and personal stresses, and I’ve received so much love and kindness. Thank you also to the lovely parents. The biggest thanks of all however, goes to every single one of the children.” 

Mrs Dodd asked former pupils to send in their well wishes for Mrs O’Hara. Here are a few: 

Mrs O’Hara, or as we knew her originally, Miss Carrington, taught all five of us children and she’s always been my mum’s favourite teacher. She inspired me to become a teacher myself. We wish her every success and happiness in her retirement after all her hard work over the years to help so many children and families.  

Honestly the best teacher I’ve ever had. I’ve never forgotten her even though I was so young. To know that my daughter also had the privilege of having her as a teacher this year made me so happy.  

The kind of teacher you will always feel safe and happy to leave your child with. 

You’ll be a great loss to Hadfield Infants, but no one deserves rest like you do after many years of hard work. Truly one of a kind. 

Helen taught my son 28 years ago, and my granddaughter a couple of years ago. An exceptionally beautiful person in nature and a truly inspirational teacher. 

What a wonderful teacher Mrs O’Hara is. She taught my daughter 27 years ago and my granddaughter this year. Such a kind, caring and nurturing teacher. As a mum I can honestly say she made me feel relaxed and took all my worries away at the classroom door. You’re simply the best Mrs O’Hara! We will miss you dearly. 

The reason I went into teaching, and I’ve now been a teacher for 10 years. Thank you. 

One of the best teachers I’ve ever met. Mrs O’Hara - you are one of a kind!