After 45 years of teaching Music at Hymers College, Andrew Penny has retired.  He started teaching at the school in 1977, after being appointed to the Visiting Music Staff by the Headmaster at the time, Mr Ashurst.

Before he left, former staff who previously worked alongside Mr Penny in the 1980's and 1990's returned to surprise him during morning break, to bid him farewell and good luck in his retirement.  The returning staff were Mr Ian Nicholls, Mrs Elizabeth Powell (Modern Languages), Mrs Mary Chorlton, former Headmaster Mr John Morris, Mr Neil King, Mr Andrew Penny, Mrs Marion Riley, Mr Richard Quick, Mrs Diana Bushby, and Mr Chris Fitzpatrick.

They stayed for coffee and cake and saw many familiar faces as they passed through the gates.  There were lots of "Hello Sir" and "Hello Miss" from former pupils who are now staff, including Greg Bone (OH 1986-96), Sam Clare (OH 1988-98), Paul Cook (OH 1980-89), Lizzie Picton née Williams (OH 1991-2001) and Andrew's daughter, Sarah Lucy Penny (OH 2002-12).

Good luck in your retirement and stay in touch, Mr Penny.