Garden Party Celebrates Two Much-Loved Members Of Staff

Headmaster, Joe Thackway, joined the school back in September 2017 and, under his leadership, Crescent has gone from strength to strength. The school has grown in reputation and pupil numbers, there have been major improvements to its facilities and resources, and the school has passed two ISI inspections with flying colours. Joe’s commitment and dedication to the children at Crescent School has been central to his successful approach, so it was only right that the children featured so prominently in his retirement celebrations.

Long-standing Assistant Head, Sarah Webb, is also bidding farewell to Crescent after 25 years, keen to have more time for herself and her grandchildren. Sarah has touched the lives of so many generations of Crescent families, having held so many roles over her years at the school, not least as Year 6 teacher, supporting children in their transition on to senior school. As one of our specialist teachers, she has championed her love of English and her other responsibilities have included amongst many other things educational visits, including, of course, the Year 6 Residential Trip to Slapton Sands, a rite of passage for all our leavers.

Pupils, teachers and parents, present and former, including many Old Crescentians, gathered in the sunshine to celebrate these two much loved and respected members of staff, with music, poetry, speeches, memories, presents and of course plenty of cake. The afternoon started with a fanfare welcome by Brass Group and Mr Thackway and Mrs Webb being escorted to two thrones created and decorated by the Year 6 children. After the Foundation hymn, Year 2 children came forward to present memory books lovingly put together by pupils at the school.

After a break for fun and games, conversation and refreshments, everyone came back together to enjoy original music by Flute group. The Choir then sang movingly, Year 6 sang together with Mrs Woolfenden and poems were performed by pupils from across the school. Mrs Webb and Mr Thackway’s children added their memories and thanks to two such inspirational teachers and parents. While recently retired Director of Music, Julie Barnes, had sound advice for retirement, former Headmaster, Huw Marshall, shared his warm insights.

Paying tribute to Mr Thackway and Mrs Webb, Deputy Head, Bryony Forth said: "I am not sure you realise how much you mean to us all and the impact you have had on so many here at Crescent. You are both so highly thought of; your dedication and commitment has been truly inspiring. Sarah and Joe, you will be sorely missed by the children, staff and parents alike.”

Foundation Principal, Ed Hester added his thanks, commending Joe and Sarah for their commitment to the Crescent community and, most importantly, the children.

It was a wonderful celebration of two very special people.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our garden party, sharing your memories and good wishes.