MUSIC, sports day and the Isle of Wight are all words which have featured strongly in Barbara Swinn's calendar for nearly three decades.

But on Friday she put most of them behind her when she retired from St Nicholas School in Alcester (formerly St Faith's) to spend more time with her family and, of course, her music.

"An old aunt told me about 30 years ago that I would know when the time was right to retire," Mrs Swinn told colleagues and friends at a retirement party at the school on Wednesday. "And now the time is right."

Mrs Swinn's career began in her home county, Lincolnshire, and when she married her husband, Andrew, she took a job at Great Alne School. She was there three years before moving to St Faith's 27 years ago.

For many years she shared the music curriculum, and Year 6 classes, with deputy head Mick Perrier, who also left on Friday.

The pair complemented each other perfectly, as they both agreed last week when they spent their last day working together.

"We both explored music in different ways," said Mr Perrier. "I think the children appreciated it and their musical experience was deepened."

For both of them the highlights of the past few years have been the musical activities, especially taking groups to the School Proms in Bedworth, and the annual trips to the Isle of Wight.

But the lowest point was the closure of St Faith's a year ago.

"It had been such a part of my life, and my family, for 26 years," said Mrs Swinn.

Mr Perrier, who joined the school 16 years ago, will continue teaching but as a music specialist in two Birmingham schools.

Reflecting on how much teaching has changed over the years, he said he was looking forward to devoting more time to his own music and church activities.

Mrs Swinn's daughters are both expecting babies, so she is looking forward to being with her family and playing her flute.