A cook at a Birmingham primary school has finally hung up her apron – 30 years after joining the school.

Marian Cullinan, joined Nansen Primary School in 1985, aged 31, and began her career at the Alum Rock school as a cleaner before climbing the ladder to become head cook.

And she’s had her work cut out for her, helping to serve 4,500 hot lunches every week to 963 pupils at Nansen, which is one of the largest primary schools in Europe and is run by CORE Education Trust.

The popular member of staff, from Hodge Hill, now plans to enjoy spending time with her husband, grandchildren and pursuing her hobbies – including yoga, reading and enjoying trips to the cinema and theatre.

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She said: “I have had the most wonderful 30 years at Nansen and it has been a joy working with the children – some of the pupils I see now are the children of those I first cooked for.

“The school has changed considerably over the last three decades and is a lot bigger than it once was, which has certainly kept me busy!

“I’m going to truly miss the staff and the children and I am so grateful to have had so many great years at Nansen Primary School.”

Nansen Primary School’s Head Teacher Cath Rindl said: “Marian has been a true gem and the pupils and staff alike are all going to truly miss her.

“She has shown passion and commitment in everything she has done at Nansen and she has become a really integral part of school life.

“We wish Marian all the best and we hope she enjoys her much-deserved retirement.”  

Adrian Packer, CEO at CORE Education Trust, said: “Marian is a veteran of the school and has seen first-hand the remarkable changes throughout the years. 

“She has been an asset to Nansen Primary and her dedication to the school has been greatly appreciated. 

“The staff and children all love and respect Marian - she brought a lot of joy to the school.  

“We wish her all the best in her future endeavours.”