Clowne headteacher to retire after career spanning almost 40 years

A much-loved headteacher - who has never had a day off work sick - is set to retire after a career spanning nearly four decades.
Martin Edge. Pictures by Rachel Atkins.Martin Edge. Pictures by Rachel Atkins.
Martin Edge. Pictures by Rachel Atkins.

Martin Edge will step down from Clowne Junior School, where he has been headteacher for 23 years, next Friday.

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Mr Edge, 60, of Clowne, said: "I think I can sum up my career in one word - fun.

Martin Edge.Martin Edge.
Martin Edge.

"Friday is bound to be a very difficult and emotional day, but I have so many happy memories.

"If I had my time again, I'd do exactly the same thing."

Mr Edge started his teacher career at Grassmoor Primary School in 1981 before moving on to be deputy headteacher at North Wingfield Junior School.

He joined Clowne Junior School in 1996.

Martin Edge with Clowne Junior School pupils.Martin Edge with Clowne Junior School pupils.
Martin Edge with Clowne Junior School pupils.

Mr Edge said: "I've seen so many changes in education over the years.

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"I think the biggest has been the technological advancements.

"When I started I used blackboards and chalk - there weren't any computers in sight."

Upon retiring, Mr Edge said he intends to take a break and 'see what happens'.

Martin Edge with Clowne Junior School pupils.Martin Edge with Clowne Junior School pupils.
Martin Edge with Clowne Junior School pupils.

He added: "I'd like to thank everyone - colleagues, pupils, parents, the community - who's made my career so wonderful."

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Mr Edge confirmed that the school's new headteacher, Charlotte Newton-Wall, will start after the Easter holidays.

Clowne Junior School’s website states: "The education we give our children is very thoroughly planned, carefully presented and monitored by experienced staff.

"We feel that it is very important to ensure that children maintain their enthusiasm and curiosity, develop a healthy work ethic and a positive attitude towards learning. Parents and school can work together to achieve this and help all our children succeed.”