School's longest-running member of staff retires after 23 years

19th May 2009, 11:37am

Gloria Underhill, a wife, mother of three and grandmother of eight from Kent who has worked in the school kitchens for the past 23 years is hanging up her apron.

Gloria, aged 66, has decided to take a well-deserved retirement in Northumberland after having prepared, cooked or served almost 700,000 meals in her career in the kitchens at Maundene School in Chatham.

Over her years at the primary school of 420 pupils, Gloria has seen a lot of changes, not least in the school menu.

Contract caterer Chartwells has worked with the school for the past 10 years providing a variety of healthy school meals in line with the Government's new food-based and nutrient-based standards for primary schools.

Of the changing menu, Gloria said: "The meals we serve now are very healthy and we always have a vegetarian option too; there's a really good selection for the children. The food is so good that I even eat it."

Recently Gloria's role has included laying the table in preparation for lunch and serving the pupils, which has led to her getting to know the pupil population well.

Gloria continued: "I've been able to see lots of kids grow up, from being the little ones in reception to when they leave for big school. I especially know the cheeky ones!"

The school organised a surprise farewell assembly for Gloria, to which old friends and colleagues, including the previous head teacher, secretary, cook and council members were invited.

Nigel Jones, head teacher said: "Gloria has been a well-recognised and well-loved member of Maundene School for almost a quarter of a century and there were many people who wanted to be involved in her retirement party. Everyone at Maundene School will miss her but we wish her much happiness in her future and hope she enjoys a well-deserved retirement."

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