SCHOOLCHILDREN gathered in the playground to wish their head teacher a happy retirement.

Rhian Tomkins, head teacher of Sturminster Marshall First School, is retiring after 20 years of service to the school.

She joined as deputy head in January 1997 before taking on the role of head teacher in 2003.

Andy Joyce, assistant head teacher, said her “friendly manner, common sense approach and easy wit will be much missed”.

“Mrs Tomkins has devoted much of her adult teaching life to Sturminster Marshall First School and for that loyalty alone we offer our heartfelt thanks,” he added.

The school said under Rhian’s leadership it has consistently achieved excellence and is described by Ofsted as ‘Outstanding’. Just as importantly, the school added, Rhian always made sure that all the children within her care were well looked after, happy and safe.

Mr Joyce will take over the headship in the New Year.