Amanda Talbot-Jones, headteacher at St Denys Primary School since 2011, has supported thousands of children over the years.

She was invited to Buckingham Palace to meet The Queen to recognise her achievements in schools and was the chair of the Southampton Headteachers conference for several years.

Amanda Talbot-Jones was invited to Buckingham Palace in 2000 to recognise her achievements in schools (Image: Family collection)

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Amanda's colleagues at St Denys have showered her with praise as she nears her final day in school.

Deputy headteacher Billy Davies told the Daily Echo: “She's an inspirational educator who puts people, especially the children, at the heart of everything she does.

"Amanda leads with compassion and a dedication to always ensure that each and every child is provided with an education that not only meets their needs but allows them to develop into the person they want to be.

"Her commitment to Nolan’s principals of public life are continuously reflected in the way she leads St Denys Primary School and has meant that pupils, families, and the staff would all say - she has been a truly outstanding headteacher."

Teacher Nick Howard described Amanda as 'the most inspiring person I have ever worked with', while teaching assistant Donna Adams said she was 'the most supportive, attentive and compassionate boss I've ever had'.

Amanda Talbot-Jones teaching a class earlier in her career (Image: Family collection)

Amanda, who lives in Bassett, grew up in Broadstairs, Kent and studied a psychology degree at The University of Keele, graduating in 1985 and taking up a teaching post at a primary school in North West London.

After a stint teaching on the Isle of Wight, she was at Thornhill Infant School between 1989 and 1992.

She became the youngest deputy headteacher in Southampton during her tenure at Weston Park Infant School, from 1992 to 1999.

Amanda went to work for the local authority as a Key Stage 1 numeracy consultant then school improvement advisor before taking up her headteacher role at St Denys.

Amanda and her husband of nearly 30 years Ian are looking forward to spending more time with their children India and Finley, who both live and work in London.

Amanda Talbot-Jones (left) is retiring as headteacher of St Denys Primary School (Image: St Denys Primary School)