A TEACHER who has spent 35 years at Swindon primary schools retired with tears in her eyes this week.

Teresa Stewart started as a reception class teacher at St Mary's Primary School, Rodbourne, in 1982.

More than three decades later, the 57-year-old teacher has bid a fond farewell to colleagues and pupils at St Mary's and St Catherine's primary schools. For the last six years she has been based at the Rodbourne and Stratton schools, working as a special educational needs co-ordinator.

"It's been a very rewarding job," Teresa said. "Especially with children who struggle some times - you see them blossom."

The teacher, who has spent 35 years teaching Swindon youngsters, said: "I'm now teaching the children of pupils I had when I started. I've seen whole families go through the school."

Colleagues at the two schools threw Teresa a barn dance for old friends last Friday. And this week she has had tears in her eyes as she was clapped by pupils at special assemblies.

"It's been a day of mixed emotions. It feels like I've had to leave twice - with two schools. But I'm sure I'll be back."

Teresa said that teaching had become harder over the three decades she'd been in the profession - with inspections and exams. "I think the pressure has grown. I see more and more young people come in and they don't stay very long, which is sad."

With her teaching days over, she plans to spend time with her four grandchildren and tour the world with her ex-teacher husband.