A Kirkby primary school said a fond farewell to higher level teaching assistant Nichola Johnson after 22 years at the end of the summer term.

Nichola, who taught more than 1,000 nursery children during her time at Greenwood Primary and Nursery School, will be sorely missed, said deputy head teacher Sarah Gilbody.

“I have had the honour of working with Nic for 10 years and in that time she has worked so hard to support each and every Greenwood star in her care,” she added.

“She has a heart of gold and makes each child know how special they are to us. I will miss hearing her songs each day and her sunny personality.”

Nichola, who is moving to another school, said: “The children, families, and staff have been wonderful over the years. I’ve enjoyed being the start of each child’s journey, setting the foundations for their learning.”

She has seen generations of children growing up, adding: “I have even worked alongside another teaching assistant who was a former pupil! I can’t thank everyone enough for all the happy memories.”