Selwyn principal leaves after 24 years | Rotorua News | Local News in Rotorua

Tony Pope has spent more than two decades working in education, now he's going back to school to become a student.

The Selwyn Primary School principal is retiring after 24 years at the school, four as deputy principal and the last 20 as principal.

Now, he has decided to become a student and study for a diploma in art and design at Waiariki Institute of Technology.

"I just want to develop the skills I already have and spend 20 hours a week painting."

After a "marathon of farewells" Mr Pope says he is ready to retire but it won't be easy.

"The closer it gets to me leaving the harder and more emotional it gets," Mr Pope said.

When The Daily Post visited Mr Pope at school it was clear he would be missed.

Walking through the grounds a student called out, "You're not leaving Mr Pope, I won't let you".

And on the table behind his desk were piles of chocolates, home-made baking and gifts from students who were sad to see him go.

He said he hoped the students would remember him as a "supportive friend" who wanted the best for them.

Mr Pope said the highlight of his career was watching the community and school relationships develop.

"It's all about the school being a hub to serve the community and and help develop strong relationships with families."

Mr Pope said he would like to return to education again in the future but it won't be as a principal.

Selwyn School was the centre of media attention last month after former deputy principal Glen Rohan Lovatt was found guilty of five sexual charges against two former students on school property.

Mr Pope sad it was a sad note to end his career on but he was 100 per cent sure he had made the right decision about his future.

Peter Barker, current principal of Gisborne Central School, will be taking over as principal in the new year.