I am sure that when she walked through the gates of The Willows as a bright-eyed four-year-old, Mrs Barnes never imagined that one day she would be bringing her incredible journey at the very same school full circle. What a rare and special thing to be able to say that you have spent your life dedicated to a place that has been part of you from the very beginning! Mrs Barnes has been a valued member of our school community first as a parent, then a volunteer and then as a Teaching Assistant before becoming our much-loved School Business Manager. She has worked at The Willows for 27 years. Her dedication, kindness, and commitment have touched the lives of countless children, families, and staff members and she is going to be greatly missed. Mrs Barnes has said many times that what she would miss most was the children’s singing and so it was very fitting that we finished with a Mass together where the children sang so incredibly. Her biggest joy is spending time with her family and so it was even more special that we were able to welcome her family to the Mass including her new baby grandson. It is testament to Mrs Barnes and the impact she has had on the children, staff and families of The Willows that we were able to present her with a cheque for £932 as well as cards and other gifts. The PTFA organised coffee and cakes in the hall after Mass and there was even a surprise song from the staff written by Mr Knight, What an amazing celebration we had! 

A Thank you from Mrs Barnes
Dear Mrs Barnett, Staff, Governors, PTFA, Parents and Children of The Willows School,
I just wanted to say a heartfelt thank you for your generous cards, flowers, gifts and well wishes received on my recent retirement.
I am quite humbled by the love and generosity shown by you all. I know and appreciate the hard work that went into making my final days so special and I especially treasure the magic that was created during my leaving mass. Year 6, you did make me cry leading the singing but it was happy, emotional tears, not sad tears.
Thank you to the PTFA and all who made cakes. To Mr Knight who wrote my leaving song so enthusiastically sung by all the staff. This all ensured that my final working hours were so precious.
Children, your cards and gifts especially the ones you made yourselves were beautiful and will be treasured. I have purchased a piece of jewellery with the money so generously donated by you all which will remind me dearly of my “Willows Family”.
To all of you, please don’t forget to wave or say hello if you see me out and about. I would like to know how all of you are getting on. Work hard, do your best at all times and be true to yourselves.
With much love,
Mrs Barnes xx