THE headteacher of Radcliffe High School is leaving at the end of the summer term after seven years at the helm.

Mrs Glenda Parker (50) is leaving the Abden Street school because teachers are now unable to access their pensions until the age of 60.

She explained: "I decided to take a career break in order that, in my last ten years, I can look at a change of direction."

Originally from Stafford, she graduated from Warwick University with a BEd (Hons) in 1971.

During her time at university she met Mr Peter Parker whom she married in 1972. He became headteacher of Greenmount County Primary School.

Mrs Parker's first teaching job was at Walton High School in Stafford.

In 1972 she became head of religious education at what was Radcliffe County Secondary.

Comprehensive school reorganisation in 1979 saw her move to Philips High, Whitefield, where she was head of humanities.

In 1984 she was made deputy headteacher of Radcliffe High and made headteacher in 1992.

Mrs Parker's specialist subject is RE and she maintained a keen interest in the development and teaching of the subject.

She was on the LEA's Standing Advisory Committee for Religious Education since its inception in 1989. Mrs Parker was also a chairman of the Bury Association of Secondary Headteachers.

She said she has no idea yet as to what career change she will choose, but is looking forward to spending the first two months relaxing and catching up on reading while planning her future.

"I will leave the school with mixed feelings and will miss the staff who are not only colleagues, but friends too. I will also miss the pupils who have helped me make the 28 years worthwhile." She said she looked forward to the future with optimism and wished the school and everyone connected with it every success in the future.

School spokesman Mrs Liz Oliver said: "Glenda's caring nature and friendly outgoing personality, coupled with her obvious commitment to the education of all pupils, irrespective of ability, will be greatly missed by staff and pupils, past and present."

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