She has been fondly referred to as ‘Nana’ by a generation of schoolgirls, and is the friendly, front-of-house face for staff and visitors to Manchester High School for Girls, so it is without doubt that Receptionist Lynda Wells will be missed upon her retirement.

Mrs Wells, from Poynton, is leaving MHSG after 12 years, in which time she has played a pivotal role in the day-to-day administration of the School. Whether the problem involved illness, transport, or timetabling, MHSG pupils have been able rely on Lynda for help.

She admits that life will feel strange when September arrives and she is not preparing for the start of the new School term.

“One of the biggest joys of this role is watching the girls join in Year 7 and watching them progress and achieve so much as the months go by. I have enjoyed the interaction with the girls and the buzz that comes with having a job where no two days are the same.”

MHSG Head Girl Hannah Shackleton said the entire School wished Mrs Wells a happy retirement.

She added: “Mrs Wells has been a constant source of help to so many of us. It is little wonder that many of the girls refer to her fondly as ‘Nana,’ and she will be very much missed by us all.”

A Mother-of-two, Mrs Wells intends to treat herself to a cruise to mark her retirement and enjoy more leisure time with her family. 

• Also bowing out at the end of the Summer Term, was Head of English Mrs Lesley Witton, after 17 years at Manchester High School for Girls. Warm tributes were paid to Mrs Witton for her leadership and successes. In 2006, 100% of English Language and English Literature A-Level students achieved passes at either Grade A or Grade B (including 75% at Grade A). At GCSE, 82% of candidates achieved either a Grade A* or Grade A in their English Language examinations.