Today over a thousand pupils and staff members at Chepstow Comprehensive school are getting set to throw their books in the air as the final bell rings on the academic year.

But the day will also prove an exceptionally poignant one for the school, as two of its most popular teachers will say goodbye for the final time. Headmaster John Barnbrook, and a former Head of Sixth Form, Jackie Long, are both set to retire from the school, closing the book on individual careers that have spanned almost four decades.

Mr Barnbrook, 58, was born in Abersychan and later moved to Bristol to study a Zoology degree. He has remained living in Bristol ever since with his wife Rena, and their three children.

He began his teaching career in Bristol, becoming a headteacher in Weston-super-Mare and later deputy head at St Julian's in Newport.

He took up the role of headmaster at Chepstow nine years ago and since become a popular figure within the Chepstow community.

Speaking of his time at the school he said: "This school is a fantastic place. It has the most dedicated and polite pupils and I love showing people around the school so that they can see for themselves how respectful they are - always holding doors for visitors and making conversation.

"There are some fantastic initiatives here too - like the Bungalow Project for instance. I believe strongly if you provide young people with the tools they need to succeed - they will."

He added: "What I will miss most of all when in retirement is not getting to work directly with young people again. They have a hunger and a passion for life and you have to keep up with the changes in order to connect with them. They keep you young you know."

Jackie Long, 58, has dedicated her entire adult life to teaching at Chepstow Comprehensive. The mother-of-two began teaching at the school as a student teacher and remained ever since, becoming head of English, head of sixth form and later assistant head. Reflecting on her almost 40-year career, she said: "The best part of my job has always been the feeling you can make a real difference to the children's lives, and keep making a difference. Whether academically or building confidence, or supporting them, it's about making a difference to everyone. It's a very rewarding job."