Chris Mullen retires after 35 years at Plaistow school

A woman who began working at a school to fit in with family life has retired after 35 years at the same site

Chris Mullen started at Eleanor Smith School in North Street, Plaistow on January 7 1977. She started as a midday supervisor and gradually worked her way up to be a classroom assistant. She enjoyed this work so much, working with children and supporting their learning and seeing a difference in their progress.

Throughout her time at the school, she supported pupils with social emotional behaviour difficulties in the classroom. Her aim has always been to help the pupils learn and help them make positive choices around their behaviour.

She worked with five different head teachers and saw many changes of staff.

Graham Smith, head teacher at the school, paid tribute to her. He said: “Her resilience has seen her through and her attitude to hard work has been admirable. She is looking forward to relaxing with family and have the freedom to wake up in the morning and decide her own routine for a change.

“Staff both past and present at Eleanor Smith have all commented on what an inspiration she has been to everyone. Thank you Chris for all your hard work over the years supporting Newham children.”