John Roberts was taken by surprise on Friday evening!!!  John’s partner, Apple and staff at St Edmund’s Catholic Academy decided to organise a Birthday Party for him, without his knowledge, to celebrate his 60^th Birthday, and also to mark the fact that he has given almost 21 years of service to the former school, which converted to academy status four years ago.    Preparations had been underway well in advance, with gifts, music, food and a cake organised for him.  On arrival John was met with the sound of huge party poppers, music and a welcome from some 50 former employees, all anxious to congratulate and make a fuss of him!!!!

John commenced his employment  in June 1997, and became the Caretaker/Site Manager at the former school in 2004.  He worked for many years doing a ‘split shift’, supervising evening events at the school and ensuring that all was safe and secure at all times.    John is in his 21^st year of employment with what is now St Edmund’s Catholic Academy – part of Bishop Clearly Multi Academy Company.  Celebrations were to continue with a family party on Saturday.

Principal Maggie Hughes commented ‘ John has given 21 years service to St Edmund’s and it was a great pleasure to assist in the subterfuge to keep his birthday celebration a secret’.

John Roberts (centre) with his partner Apple (left of John) and work colleagues.