Pupils and staff of William Patten Primary School gave a fond farewell to their headteacher at a heartfelt retirement ceremony on Monday

Hackney Gazette: Headteach Kathryn Kyle, is leaving William Patten Primary school, after 15 years.Headteach Kathryn Kyle, is leaving William Patten Primary school, after 15 years. (Image: Archant)

Kathryn Kyle who was head of the school in Dynevor Road for 15 years, was sent off with waves and well wishes.

Tea and cakes were served and each class performed an ensemble piece.

The school orchestra and the steel band also provided music.

Year 3 pupil Lucia Banjo said: “Our school is the way it is because of Kathryn. It is an amazing school and we will miss her lots.

“I’m really sad she is leaving.”

Year 1 pupil Nell added: “I liked when Kathryn was getting presented with her lovely presents. Kathryn always gets lovely things for us, like Bee-bots, our great playground and lots more things”

During Ms Kyle’s tenure, she led the William Patten to an Oftsed Outstanding status as well as implementing lasting improvements.

The school now boasts a functioning library on part of the roof terrace as well as a fully landscaped playground. Craig Porteus, assistant headteacher said: “This is in addition to the positive culture she has established at the school with parents, carers, teachers and children all taking huge levels of pride in working collaboratively.

This has enabled outstanding outcomes in academic achievement through an exciting and engaging curriculum where the children enjoy their learning.”

The school also appointed deputy head teacher Karen Law as acting head from September.

She said: “It has been a real pleasure to work with Kathryn and be part of a school, that she has created, where the children achieve academic excellence and at the same time have a great deal of fun. The children, staff, parents, governors and me will all miss her.”