THE HEADTEACHER at St Joseph’s Primary School in Exmouth has decided to retire.

Vincent McCloskey will leave the school, in Long Causeway, at the end of the term.

Mr McCloskey has worked at the school for 31 years. He said: “I thought it was about time to let somebody else have a go.

“It has been the best job in the world – I’ve thoroughly enjoyed myself.”

Tony Priest, head of the Exmouth Area Learning Community, paid tribute to the hard work of Mr McCloskey.

“Vincent has been a headteacher in this area for a long time. He is a man of intelligence, passion and his work has had a positive effect on countless numbers of children.

“He is held in high regard in the area for his teaching and he’s the most long-standing headteacher within the Exmouth Area Learning Community Group.”

Mr Priest added: “He is a very caring headteacher and has taken an active interest in new heads moving in the area so he can offer advice as and when needed.

“Over the years, he has invested an enormous amount in education.

“Certainly, within our learning community group, he has been a giant.

“He will be a very difficult act to follow and I wish him all the best for the future.”