Head teacher hangs up his duster after four decades at the chalkface

Robert O’Donnell has retired after 10 years at St Machan’s Primary School, in Lennoxtown.

The dad of two, who has nearly 40 years of teaching experience, started his teaching career at Holy Family Primary, in Kirkintilloch, then moved to nearby St Flannan’s Primary before taking up his final position.

Current deputy head Kathleen McAllister will now become acting head until the position is filled permanently.

Robert said: “I’m looking forward to my retirement, but I’m obviously sad to be leaving a place where people have been so kind to me and worked so hard.

“I’ll miss all the staff, who have been excellent, but I’ll miss the children the most.

“I’ll spend all my extra time doing all the things I enjoy - walking, reading, swimming and spending time with my family.”

He added: “I wish Kathleen all the best and know she will do a fantastic job.

“I’d like to thank everybody who organised the celebration to mark my retirement, in particular the special mass. It is a memory that will stay with me forever.”

Robert is pictured with his staff outside the school.

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