Ridgley Primary School's outgoing school executive officer, Laraine Spurr, considers herself lucky.

She says she has savoured every minute of her time at the school.

Mrs Spurr retired on Friday and to mark the occasion the school hosted a special assembly and afternoon tea.

"My day has been very emotional, it's been an emotional month," Mrs Spurr said.

Mrs Spurr has turned 65, become a fourth-time grandmother and entered retirement all in the space of a few weeks.

"It's exciting to know there are new things coming up. I'm not sad, I know I can come back and spend time as a volunteer."

Mrs Spurr started as a school volunteer when her children started school. She became a kindergarten teachers' aide in 1974 then progressed into the school office.

"When I started it was just a typewriter with a cashbook and an ink duplicator. There has been so much change, everything has been computerised and you just keep learning."

Mrs Spurr was touched by the thoughtful school assembly.

"I've always been very proud of this school and the kids.

"It's very satisfying to know you have been a part of their life journey."