It is with mixed emotions that we announce the departure of our beloved Mrs. Turnbull at the end of this term. I had the pleasure of sitting down with her to learn more about her time here at Mayfield School and what makes her tick.

Mrs. Turnbull joined Mayfield School in February 2022 to teach a class of Year 3 children on a three-week fixed-term basis, which quickly turned into a full-time role. In August of that year, she even applied for a job as a funeral director! Thankfully, fate kept her with us a bit longer. When asked about this surprising career consideration, she explained that a series of personal losses led her to explore new directions. This willingness to embrace change is a hallmark of Mrs. Turnbull's character.

Before joining Mayfield, Mrs. Turnbull was known to our staff as an RTLB (Resource Teacher of Learning and Behaviour). Her journey at our school saw her take on multiple roles, including Acting Principal and Mr. Greenslade's Release Teacher for the Year 4 and 5 class at the beginning of 2023. From Term 2 of 2023, she became our Deputy Principal, SENCo (Special Education Needs Coordinator), and New Entrant Teacher. This year, she stepped down from her DP role to focus on her passion for supporting our youngest learners and those with special educational needs.

When I asked Mrs. Turnbull what she looks forward to most after leaving, she excitedly mentioned spending time with her chickens, Sally, Speckle, and Spoon.

Favourite Memory:

• "One of my favourite memories is having a class of ten Year 3's who were so little that we could all fit on a sheepskin rug together! We could sit at a table and work together, creating a close-knit learning environment."

Favourite School Traditions:

• "Pet Day, Athletics, and Matariki celebrations, like today's breakfast and the hāngi, are my favourite type of events. Although they require a lot of effort to organise, they are the best because they involve whānau and create a strong sense of community."

Hidden Talents and Fun Facts:

• "Well, I can burp 19 syllables of 'Baa Baa Black Sheep!' And a fun fact about me is – I'm really 64! (not true!)"

One tradition Mrs Turnbull leaves us with is the staff 'Poup Club'! This is when one member of staff is scheduled to bring lunch for one day during the week for the rest of the staff. It started as 'pie' or 'soup' (combined it became 'poup), but over time it has turned into anything delicious! It is one of our favourite days of the week and a tradition we will hold on to and no doubt take with us when we leave!

Mrs. Turnbull, you have been a wonderful part of our school community. We wish you many happy days ahead, enjoying time at home with your family, soaking up the sun, and spending time with your animals.

We will miss your warmth, creativity, and dedication BUT we know where to find you, and already have you scheduled to come back again!

Thank you for all the wonderful memories and contributions to our school community.

Best of luck in your future endeavours, Mrs. Turnbull! Ka kite!