A new headteacher at a Ramsbottom primary school has given up her summer holiday break to prepare the school for the new term.

Anne Washington, 50, will lead  St Andrews CofE Primary School in September.

Although she does not officially start her new role until September 1, she has been in the school every day over the summer holidays painting, fixing and designing displays making sure the school is in a great condition before term starts.

Chairman of Governors Joshua Mangas said: “We got really positive vibes from her in her interview which is why we hired her, but then what we noticed after we gave her the keys at the beginning of summer, is that she’s been in every single day.

“It’s one of the most inspiring things I’ve ever witnessed.

“She’s been in every day painting bannisters, fixing holes in the walls, putting up boards and displays and just going around the school fixing things.”

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Mr Mangas added: “Anne has just come in with fresh energy and a can-do attitude and had self-funded a lot of the work. She’s buying the paints and bought cupboards.

“For someone who’s supposed to start in September, all the staff have already noticed what she’s been doing and its totally inspired the staff and all the governors.

“She’s got everybody on board because of her proactiveness.

“We’re really excited about her starting and we want to now get parents excited about her starting in September too.

“She’s been absolutely phenomenal.”

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Mrs Washington said how she has been teaching for 30 years from being a class teacher, deputy head and now a head teacher.

She said: “Teaching is everything to me, it’s always been my life.

"It’s about making the best opportunities for children, parents and staff so when they come into the learning environment it just lifts them.

“When I came in, I just thought it needs a bit of love, care and attention and I wanted the staff and children to come back in and think ‘wow’ and that they want to learn in here.

“It’s more of a vocation for me than just a job.

“I get satisfaction from helping others and helping them to flourish.”

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Her previous role was as a deputy headteacher at a school in Horwich, but now she is excited to embark on her first year as a headteacher in Ramsbottom.

She added: “I’m really excited about it and to be part of the community.

“I can’t wait to meet all the kids, when the children come into the building that’s when it comes to life.

“I want to look at ways on how to provide opportunities in the community and how we can support and help the community.

“I just want to give the children as many opportunities as we can so they can choose what they want to be when they leave school and we’ve given them the tools to be able to do it.”