A FOREST school said farewell to two people who between them have given more than 60 years of service.

When Jane Ford started teaching, Harold Wilson was Prime Minister and Slade were topping the charts.

In 42 years at Dene Magna School, and its predecessor Abenhall, she has taught a number of subjects including history, humanities, maths and geography.

Danny Haines was persuaded to join the governing body when the then headteacher, Barry Howell, visited Rank Xerox where Danny was a manager.

Mr Haines has stepped down from the governing body as chairman after 19 years.

Headteacher Steve Brady said: “Both Jane and Danny have given incredible service to the school for which we are very grateful.”

Mrs Ford, who is looking forward to the birth of her first grandchild, said: “I knew I’d stay in teaching but I had no idea I’d still be here.

“Everything has chan-ged: the way students learn, the expectations of staff, the opportunities of young people but the kids have stayed the same and I’ve loved it.”

Mr Haines said: “The bar has been raised slowly but the ethos of the school has remained absolutely spot on.

“The key thing is the absolute emphasis on teaching and learning.

“You need an excellent leadership team, excellent teaching and learning and excellent governors – if you fail on any one you are down the tubes.”

Mr Haines, who has four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, is a keen golfer and artist.

The school also held its annual awards evening which recognised effort and achievement acoss the school with special guest Dame Janet Trotter, the Lord Lieutenant of Gloucestershire.

Maddie Worgan was named student of the year for her continued effort and dedication and being a role model for younger pupils.