Cardiff school caretaker retires after 19 years service

A much loved Cardiff school caretaker, who is one of the few school caretakers in Cardiff not employed by the council is soon to retire because of his poor health.

Victor Pearce, 66, has been the site manager at Llanishen Fach Primary School, Rhiwbina, for the past 19 years and will be retiring at the end of March as he feels his diabetes will prevent him from giving the job the commitment it needs.

"The job has changed considerably over the years, and I have a great deal of responsibility. I feel I can no longer perform the role to the standard I would like to," he said.

"I was originally approached to take on a part-time role at the school, but I loved it and it soon turned into a job where I was happy to work 60 hours plus a week," he added.

"It's a fantastic job, with fantastic people and a fantastic ethos.

"I have mixed feelings about leaving. I am having to retire because of health problems."

Before taking on the role of site manager at the school, Mr Pearce ran a residential home for the elderly. He said he has always enjoyed working with people.

"Unfortunately getting old means you can't carry on the way you once did. I will be very sad to leave the school," he said.

Mr Pearce is contracted by the school directly.

The head teacher of Llanishen Fach, Sarah Coombes said: "Mr Pearce has an amazing work ethic. No sooner have you asked him to do something, he's already started before you have even had the chance to walk away.

"He is as determined as the school management to ensure we have the best possible environment for the children."

Giles Parker the deputy head teacher said: "He is irreplaceable, a real character. It feels like he lives at the school, he's always working so hard.

"He's a jack of all trades and has a wealth of expertise. He will be missed.

"He also has a great singing voice, which brightens up the day."

Mr Pearce has been a member of the Cardiff Arms Park Male Choir for 25 years. A special concert will be held at Bethany Baptist Church, Rhiwbina, on March 25 to mark his retirement. The school choir will also be performing at the concert.

Councillor Adrian Robson, a governor for the school said: "Mr Pearce will be sorely missed by everyone and is very well respected by the school staff and governors. He always goes above and beyond the call of duty, and has played a key role in school life.

"I would like to thank him for his tremendous commitment over the years, and wish him well in his retirement."