Pupils line up at Kirkcaldy school to say farewell to retiring janitor

Youngsters at St Marie’s RC Primary lined up outside the school on Wednesday to give a memorable send-off to janitor George Tullis who retired after more than ten years in the job.

By Debbie Clarke

Published 29th Apr 2021, 14:38 BST

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Pupils from all 14 classes lined up along a path outside the school building to pay a special tribute to George who hung up his lollipop stick on Wednesday.

Headteacher Mary Caldwell said a number of activities had taken place throughout the day to mark his retirement.

She said: "We had a really busy day for him. We wanted it to be a day of celebration and to mark all the hard work and service George has given to the school of the past ten years.

From left: St Marie's RC Primary headteacher Mary Caldwell with janitor George Tullis who retired on Wednesday along with pupils Charlene Ho (5) and Kenzi Mackie (10) with a special poster to mark George's departure.

From left: St Marie's RC Primary headteacher Mary Caldwell with janitor George Tullis who retired on Wednesday along with pupils Charlene Ho (5) and Kenzi Mackie (10) with a special poster to mark George's departure.

"He was taken round each of the classes to see the artwork the children had done for him and they also sang a song - each class did a song for George.

"We had a virtual team assembly, and he was the guest of honour. Lee Parry, chairman of the parent council, wished him well and there were presents given to George on behalf of the parent council, as well as gifts from children and the staff.

"We had a walk of honour for George and the children sang his favourite song which is 'Count on Me' by Bruno Mars.

"He has had a wonderful day."

Pupils at St Marie's RC Primary lined up with their artwork to say farewell to janitor George who retired after 10 and a half years in the job.

Pupils at St Marie's RC Primary lined up with their artwork to say farewell to janitor George who retired after 10 and a half years in the job.

His leaving gifts included: a three-course meal voucher for Balbirnie House Hotel, a bottle of whisky, a £100 cheque, a voucher for the Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh, a school sweatshirt and a basket of goodies.

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She continued: "George has a wonderful, happy personality and has a very kind and caring way he carries out his duties in the school. This has been recognised by the children, staff and parents. We will all miss him."

George added: "Today I retire– and my birthday is tomorrow! I feel sad in a way but really good in another way. I will miss all the kids and the staff who have been really good to me.

"I have been at the school for ten and a half years now - the gifts from the pupils and staff has been overwhelming.

"Sad to leave but the send-off the children gave me was lovely."

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