5:09pm Friday 8th August 2008
By Katie Barnett
HEADTEACHER David Strauss has stepped down after 19-and-a-half years at Merton Junior School in Basingstoke.
He ended the term at the school in Romsey Close, Popley, with the intention of working part-time and travelling to China, South America and New Zealand.
He will also use his spare time to travel, take photographs, play cricket and train for the London marathon.
Mr Strauss, who lives in Basingstoke, said: "I've always wanted to go to China, South America and New Zealand. I can do that now outside holiday times so it's cheaper. I like taking photographs. They're a great way of remembering where you've been and what you've done.
"I've also always wanted to run the London marathon and now that I'll have more time, I can train for it."
He added: "The children are the heart of the school. The school works on the ethos that we all help each other and I have been lucky to work with a lot of inspiring teachers. It's so rewarding to see children progress.
"The school has given me some fantastic memories."
Gifts were presented to Mr Strauss and children also gave him drawings as leaving presents.
Mr Strauss had not imagined he would venture into teaching. He said: "I remember as a child saying I'd never be a teacher, but here I am."
Parent Stephanie Heffernan, 39, of Abbey Road, Popley, was one of those saying farewell. She said: "My eldest is 18 and has autism and was taught by Mr Strauss and he's been wonderful. I would like to wish him a long, happy retirement and many thanks for all he has done for our community."
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