Say hello to Edenhurst’s Office Manager and Admissions Officer, Clair Wardle. Clair has worked at the School for more than 25 years and has been affectionately dubbed ‘the Font of all Edenhurst!’ Here we learn more about her career to date, and what she enjoys most about her role.
What is your role at Edenhurst?
Office Manager and Admissions Officer, although I joined the school as a part-time, term-time only Secretary.
How long have you been working at the school?
Not too long, a mere 26 years on the 20th April!
What are your professional qualifications and interests?
I started work straight from school on a YTS (Youth Training Scheme) with Newcastle College at Keele University in the Senior Tutor’s Office. I was involved in the Admissions of students and the Clearing System each August. The department also dealt with current students and the setting up and manning of the Examinations, including Finals! I eventually moved, after 6 years to another department within the University, the Department of Applied Social Sciences and Social Work as the Secretary to the Counselling Studies department – I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Keele, leaving after 11 years to start my own family. I joined the Edenhurst family when my youngest turned 18 months old and have loved (nearly) every minute of it!
What is your favourite thing about working at Edenhurst?
Edenhurst will always be very special to me and anyone who knows me will know that I do ‘bleed purple’! All of the children who come through the nursery and school feel like my own, I treasure them all and although sad when they leave for their secondary schools, admire them all and wish them all the very best for their futures – they will all be amazing individuals because of the foundation they gained at Edenhurst!
What are your favourite memories?
I have had lots of lovely memories over the years, from the big events where our children always shine (I’m the one at the back of the auditorium crying with pride), to the smallest gestures from both children and parents. I have received numerous gifts and cards over the years, especially at the end of the school year with some lovely messages, just thinking about some of the comments is bringing tears to my eyes writing this! We have over the years had a lot of parties, celebrations and nights (and days) out as a staff group for weddings, hen do’s, baby showers, birthdays, retirements, leaving do’s, Christmas and just because it’s Friday – we are not only colleagues who work together, we are friends and I treasure every one of them! I love my Edenhurst family, always have and always will.
What are your interests outside of work?
Outside of school my interests are my family, our caravan in Wales, walking, films, reading, all the usual stuff … oh, and chocolate!
Categories: Staff
