STAFF and pupils in Redditch and Studley bade fond farewells to headteachers and teachers who have dedicated years to education.

Ipsley Middle School said goodbye to headteacher Phil Mitchell, who has worked within the schools pyramid for 29 years.

He was formerly the head of St Peter's Middle before becoming head of Ipsley when it opened in September 2001.

A school spokesman said he had been an inspiration to many pupils over the years.

"Many parents who were taught by him now send their children to the school.

''He has helped many families overcome personal and social issues.

"He worked tirelessly for high standards of respect, behaviour and achievement."

The spokesman added: "Mr Mitchell has gained the respect of all who work and have worked for him - we will miss him greatly but wish him a wonderful retirement."

Meanwhile, St Mary's Junior School in Studley waved farewell to Judy Bowley, who has taught at the school for 34 years and is taking early retirement.

The Pool Road school was her first teaching post after leaving Christ Church College in Canterbury in 1972 and has worked there ever since.

She has taken on various responsibilities including numeracy, computers and more recently the school's choir.

She also spent a year as acting deputy headteacher.

Mrs Bowley said: ''I've had wonderful opportunities and challenges in and out of school and feel I have grown in the job.''

A school spokesman said: "The remarkable thing about Judy is the enthusiasm and commitment she has maintained and which has become her hallmark.

"She will be sorely missed by the school and the community."