SCHOOL stalwarts with almost 150 years of experience between them retired from Brentwood School this month.

The school said a fond farewell to seven teachers and a secretary, all of whom have helped influence tens of thousands of pupils.

They include director of activities John Killilea, who started in 1986, and secretary Pam Scott, who has worked alongside three headmasters since starting in 1989.

Headmaster Ian Davies said: “John’s undoubted experience and enthusiasm has been a significant factor in sport at Brentwood School being rep - resented on the national stage and he will be sorely missed by his colleagues.

“I can’t tell you how much I admire Pam - her work ethic, her good sense and judgement.”

Initially appointed as a PE teacher, Mr Killilea, a former Great Britain International basketball player, also went on to teach maths.

Others to step down include years 4 and 5 head Chris Holding, who played an integral role in the development of hockey and athletics, since be - ginning at the school in 1990.

Sue Heyn, who joined in 1994 and led trips to several art galleries and theatres, will now have the time to follow an Asian and decorative art course at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

RE teacher Sue Hawkings, who joined in 2004, also took to teaching in the French and English departments while directing the school’s life skills programme.

Also retiring is Sue Knowles who has been at Brentwood for the past 10 years.

Liz Fisher left after seven years in the English as an Additional Language Department.

Michelle Parsons, a painter and printmaker who led the art department has left after 14 years of service.