THROWING a big family street party with fun and games for the children was how an inspirational headteacher chose to mark her time at the school which she has transformed.

Popular head Elaine Kent leaves St George's CE Primary and Nursery School, in Barrow, this summer after more than 13 years at the helm.

Pupils, staff, parents and the school community packed the outdoor area of St George's on Wednesday for an afternoon of circus skills, traditional fun fair games and party food - and to thank Mrs Kent.

The head is moving on to new challenges after creating a good school with a "community feel".

The former Love Barrow Award winner is recognised for her tireless work to make the school the best possible place for children to learn.

She created a brilliant environment by getting a large sports revamp and and then a major multi million pound revamp, at the same time as raising standards and the aspirations of pupils.

Speaking on Wednesday, Mrs Kent said: "This is fabulous. When they asked me what I wanted to mark my time here I said 'I would like a big party,' because the children love parties. The children and their families love this kid of event.

"It's about the kids, that's all that matters, making them happy families."

She added: "The school is a different place it's a proper community now.

"It's been a rollercoster. The place is completely transformed now, not just the buildings, it's about what we have been able to do for the children.

"We have more than 200 children and these are my children, I see them as my family. I have also taught some of their parents.

"It has been an absolute privilege to work here and I'm really sad about going. It's been exciting, it's been tragic, and challenging.

"It is a wonderful job, but it's time for a change and to try new things.

The school is in a fantastic place."

The head, who has also worked at Abbotsmead, Leven Valley and South Walney Juniors in her 30-year career, set out to build a school with a community feeling, to raise standards and aspirations, and to give the children opportunities.

Outdoor learning is a key thing at St George's and the school has minibuses to take the pupils to the beach, park or woods so they do not miss out if parents do not have transport.

The school also nurtures talent and leadership in children and staff.

Recognising the hard-working team Mrs Kent said: "Together they are such a strong team and they show the spirit of St George's will live on."

Pupil Eric Nelson, 11, gave Mrs Kent a leaving gift, a Goblet of Fire, featuring a St George dragon.

Eric said: "It's been great at St George's. Mrs Kent gives you confidence, she tells you to always give it a go and she is always willing to listen."

Eric's mum Rachel Sadler, said: "Eric just loves it here, it's amazing. He used to be nervous and shy.

"Mrs Kent is an absolute inspiration. She is super professional, but so kind."

Karen Stringer, the deputy head at St George's said: "Elaine has set her heart and soul into this place and the very fabric of our school reflects this. There aren’t enough words to describe what Mrs Kent has done for parents, pupils, staff and the community.

"A lot of what she has achieved has not been publicly recognised because she has kept quiet about it. She does not seek the limelight, preferring to just get on and do a brilliant job.

"It has been a real privilege to have such a passionate and inspirational headteacher. Elaine has been instrumental in moving the school forward, both in its physical and spiritual sense. She has been tireless in her mission to make this school the best possible place to learn."

In an assembly, pupils thanked Mrs Kent for creating a wonderful place "where children and adults feel safe and have the confidence to stretch their wings, try something new, and take risks."

St George's new head will be Steve Herbert.