After an outstanding Ofsted, two beautiful grandchildren, a move to the country and retirement beckoning, what more could any Head Teacher want? Certainly not a fire!!!

However, this is exactly what happened on Sunday 14th October 2007, when fire severely damaged St Mary’s School. Mrs Sue Lemmon took it all in her stride by dealing with the situation in her usual calm, competent manner proving to be a magnificent Head Teacher and an inspiration to all.

Sue joined the staff of St Mary’s Infant School, Grangetown, Middlesbrough, after many years of teaching, as Deputy Head Teacher in September 1994 and was appointed Head Teacher just two years later. In September 2000 she successfully oversaw the amalgamation of St Mary’s Infant and Junior Schools and became Head of the new Primary School.

Mrs Lemmon has always displayed her dedication and professionalism even postponing major surgery in 2003 to see the newly-amalgamated school through its first excellent Ofsted.

In February of this year, Sue decided that the time was right for her to retire after the births of her two grandchildren, Eloise and Ben, explaining that she wanted to spend quality time with her family. After announcing her retirement, her career has culminated in an “outstanding” Ofsted in July this year.

Everyone at St Mary’s, although desperately sorry to see her go, wishes this “truly outstanding” Head Teacher a long and happy retirement.