DESCRIBED as a "wonder woman" by teachers, colleagues and parents at Hempshill Hall Primary School, Sheila Jackman has called time on her long and productive career.
Cards, gifts and flowers were showered upon the popular teaching assistant, who fought back the tears as glowing tributes were paid to her during a surprise farewell celebration on the last day before the Christmas break, on Friday, December 21.
Mrs Jackman, 62, who lives in Armstrong Road, Bulwell, began working at Hempshill Hall Primary as a cleaner 27 years ago, and during her fulfilling career has gone on to make her mark in all aspects of school life.
As well as spending 18 years as a member of the auxiliary staff, which included being a dinner lady, Sheila graduated to become a teaching assistant, working with some of the school's youngest and most vulnerable children.
She says one of her "greatest joys" during her 27 years at Hempshill was being given the responsibility for looking after special needs pupil Yale Ellis, who died at the age of seven.
"Yale was a little star and will always have a special place in my heart," she said.
Head teacher Helen Ridge described Mrs Jackman as an "unsung hero".
She added: "She had a strong relationship with the children, staff and parents.
"Nothing was too much trouble for her and she was loved by us all."
Foundation teacher Perminda Uppal said: "Sheila has a heart of gold. She was a great role model to us all and will be sorely missed.
"She's a real wonder woman."
Married for 41 years to her husband Roy, they have two children and are expecting their first grandchild in the new year.
"Hempshill Hall Primary is a wonderful school and I feel privileged to have been part of it for 27 years," said Mrs Jackman. "My life has been enriched in many ways and there is no doubt that the friends I have made and the many memories I take with me will stay in my heart forever."
