THE end of the school term was marked with festivities at schools across York and North Yorkshire.

Treasured teacher Sheila Barnes retired after 20 years at Naburn Primary School.

Head teacher Rupert Griffiths said that during that time, the school had grown from two classes to its current four, and a generation of children had started their school life in Sheila's capable hands.

He said: "She has also been a well-loved and highly-respected member of the local community, which is absolutely essential for a village school like Naburn.

"Children, staff and parents will be very sorry to see her go, but we wish her a very happy retirement.

There was great excitement at Pocklington Montessori School as all 300 children awaited the arrival of Father Christmas.

The children sang their hearts out as Santa's sleigh, laden with presents, arrived in style pulled by human reindeers. While in his grotto he heard each and every child's greatest wish for Christmas.

Senior citizens were invited into Canon Lee School, in York, for a Christmas dinner with all the trimmings.

The guests were brought by taxi or in the school mini- bus this year and thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

Meanwhile, at the Salvation Army centre in York, the playgroup supervisor Stella Hayes retired and youngsters and staff joined her in a leaving party.

Major Paul Westlake said: "Stella founded and has for many years developed the Salvation Army playgroup.

"She has done a sterling job and both parents and children will be very sad to see her go."

At Heworth House Day Nursery, about 11 tiny tots took part in the annual nativity play.

Manager Julie Downes said: "It was a traditional nativity which teacher Denise Russell has been working on with the children and they put their all into the performance in front of their parents."

At Badger Hill primary school, off Hull Road, 140 youngsters took part in their annual carol concert with carols on the playground.

Head teacher Andrea Hellam said: "Parents and members of the local community came along to watch and join in the end-of-term festive celebrations."