STAFF and pupils have bid farewell to a teacher who has worked at their school in Winterbourne for 42 years.


Long-serving teacher, Phil Wightman, finished his last school day at Winterbourne International Academy (WIA), formerly known as The Ridings High School, on Monday.


Mr Wightman, 63, is a former pupil of Filton High School, the Technical Grammar School for the area, where he achieved passes in O and A level examinations.


He progressed to Study 3D Constructional Design at Redland College, Bristol University and trained to become a teacher.


After spending his final Teaching Practice at The Ridings High School in 1972, Mr Martin, the first headteacher of the school, offered him a teaching post as the school was expanding due to the raising of the school leaving age being introduced in September of the following year.


Since then Mr Wightman has held several responsibilities during his time at WIA, including 20 years in pastoral roles such as deputy and head of year.


He said: “I take away many fond memories of the school, of all the excellent students I have had the pleasure to teach and the wonderful colleagues I have the privilege to work alongside which has made this a great school and an amazing experience and career.”


Rob Philips, head of marketing and communications at The Ridings Federation of Academies, made up of WIA and Yate International Academy, said: “Phil has relentlessly given his time and support to the academy.


“The Ridings’ Federation of Academies give huge thanks to Phil’s hard work and commitment over the year and wish him a long and happy retirement.”


From 1986 until 2001 Mr Wightman headed up a successful Adult and Community Education Centre at WIA where 1,200 students a year would study courses including Modern Foreign Languages, Flower Arranging, Royal Yacht Association and many more.


Mr Wightman, who lives in Patchway, now looks forward to pursuing his fondness of DIY projects, running, hill walking and travelling and the ability to devote more time to his family.