A MUCH-LOVED headteacher is stepping down and retiring after 25 years leading the first ever primary academy in Essex.

Jenny Davies has been in charge at the Westborough School, in MacDonald Avenue, Southend, since 1992.

After announcing her retirement, staff and pupils at the school held a huge party to say farewell.

As well as leading the school, which was rated as good in its most recent Ofsted inspection, Mrs Davies achieved a number of impressive feats during her time.

This included the creation of the world’s first cardboard classroom, opened by the school in 2002.

As part of the project, which was pioneered by Mrs Davies, a building was made using 90 per cent recyclable materials - making it 90 per cent recyclable at the end of its life.

Its construction also provided an educational experience for the children.

The project won a whole host of architectural and environmental awards, as well as international acclaim.

Mrs Davies also oversaw a number of changes as headteacher of the school.

In 1997, Westborough received permission from the Department of Education to change its category from primary school to primary school and nursery. The nursery opened its doors to the brand new building in 1997.

In 2009, the school went zero-carbon. Mrs Davies worked with architects and governors to reduce the school’s carbon footprint by using a biomass boiler and installing solar panels, among other things.

And in 2010, Mrs Davies achieved another first when the school became the county’s first primary academy.

Speaking after the party, Mrs Davies said: “Coming to the end of my career is quite daunting. The community have done me proud with a wonderful party last Saturday night, followed by a great send-off by the children on Wednesday.

“The community of Westborough is a very special one, reflecting the values that so many families have in the area. Our parents are great and they and the Governors have always supported me in the 30 years that I have been a part of their school.

“Of course, I will miss everyone. The sad part is leaving behind such wonderful colleagues. I wish the new headteacher, Tonya Brook, and the deputy heads, Katy Doucy and Alison Stratton, all the best as they school continues along its amazing journey.”