Retiring headteacher John Yardy says the children made sure he never had a bad day during his 22 years at the helm of a Peterborough School.
Mr Yardy, head of Oakdale Primary School, is retiring after 34 years in the teaching profession.
He said: “No matter how bad a day you are having, somewhere along the line a child will make you laugh, or do something or produce something, and make you realise why you are in the job.”
Mr Yardy, 58, became a successful headteacher despite failing his 11-plus exam. He said he has used this experience to offer advice to pupils and parents.
He added: “They may be struggling at various times but I say ‘never give up’ because people develop at different times.
“I would still encourage anyone who wants to go for it, but they need to go for it 100 per cent.”
He went on to achieve his O-levels and A-levels at college in Wisbech before attending Stoke Rochford Teacher Training College and then the University of Nottingham to get his degree in education.
He said: “Oakdale has been absolutely brilliant. I had fantastic support from parents, superb staff over the years, the children are second to none and supportive governors. I’d like to say a massive thank you for their fantastic support and making my time at Oakdale such a wonderful, enjoyable time and I will miss them hugely.”
The father-of-two is now planning to play golf, travel, get out into the countryside and attend more football matches during his retirement.