IT is the end of an era for a primary school after its long-serving head teacher is stepping down.

Head teacher Miss Carrie Morrow, who has been head teacher at Sacred Heart RC Primary School in Atherton for 16 years, is leaving for pastures new to carry out studies with the Archdiocese of Liverpool.

Miss Morrow is immensely proud of the achievements of her pupils over the years that she has been in charge.

She said: “What a journey it has been with the fantastic children and families of Sacred Heart.

"They are a most welcoming and enthusiastic community.

“Our children are fit, healthy, creative, innovative, resilient and responsible, to name but a few qualities.

“Moving on always comes with mixed emotions and it is with great pride that I hand over my school to new head teacher, Ian McDermott.”

Singers at the Lodge Lane school have performed at venues including the Royal Albert Hall in London and The Bridgewater Hall in Manchester since Miss Morrow has been head teacher.

The school has also had success in sport with Wigan Warriors Samy Kibula first team squad player being a former pupil. His mum Winnie works at the school as a teaching assistant

The school are double ATSA Football Cup winners this season as well.

Miss Morrow will continue performing with Leigh Community Choir, an adult's acapella choir who rehearse at The Turnpike in Leigh.

She added: “Singing in choirs myself as a hobby inspired me to establish one locally.

"It is my way of giving something back to the community.”

Teaching assistant Philomena Higgins has also announced she is retiring after spending 34 years at the school.