THREE teachers who have clocked up a century of experience retire this week.
Two of the teachers from Branksome School started work together on the same day in 1972 - with the third starting the year before.
Anne Poynton, Diane Jones, both assistant headteachers, and Derek McCann have seen the school drastically change since they started.
Mrs Jones said: "It was a much bigger school then, with more than 70 teachers and 1,200 pupils. I much prefer the small size now as I feel I know everyone."
As well as teaching food and textiles, Mrs Jones has been involved in the social side of the school.
Miss Poynton trained as a teacher at Darlington College of Education and was assigned to Branksome for teaching practice.
She said: "Originally I only intended to stay for a couple of years before moving on, but 34 years later I am still here, teaching the children - and probably the grandchildren - of former pupils."
Mr McCann, now head of design and technology, completed his teacher training in London.
Branksome was his second school when he joined the staff in 1971.
He said: "My intentions were to gain some experience, stay for probably two or three years and then to move on again.
"Branksome however offered many opportunities to staff as well as a brand new workshop."
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