Bidding a Fond Farewell to a Campus Legend
After decades of dedicated service, we’re throwing our hats in the air to celebrate one of our longest-serving and most beloved staff members, Nigel, who has retired from his role on our security team here at Dearne Valley College.
Nigel’s connection to our campus runs deeper than almost anyone’s! Before these buildings were bustling with students and classrooms, they were the sites of working mine shafts. Nigel was there, working as an emergency van driver delivering samples.
When the College was built, he chose to stay. In 1993, he became a caretaker and served in that role until 2012. He then transitioned to our security team, where he has been a valuable member ever since. He’s been a constant, friendly face on campus ever since, watching our College grow and flourish from the very beginning.
Nigel has become so much more than security. He’s the first one to greet you with a smile, share a laugh, or lend a hand. His kind heart, quick wit, and incredible work ethic have made our campus a truly special place. We will miss his daily presence, his funny stories, and his unwavering dedication.
Here are some quotes from staff about Nigel:
‘You could guarantee that no matter what challenges, what people were dealing with outside of College, no matter how bad a day people may be having, you could guarantee that Nigel was always there.
He made sure there was a warm, smiling face to greet people as they came in, as that’s all some people need. He has always been like that, it’s not because it’s a part of his job, he did it because he cared and because that’s the sort of person that Nigel is.’
Daniel Stanbra
‘It has been an absolute pleasure to have met Nigel, for these last 13 years, he has given me some wise words over the years, and I will never forget that. I hope he enjoys his retirement. We will miss you loads.’
Rachael Walker
‘When you think of Dearne Valley College, you think of Nigel. He’s been here since before it was even built! He had the kindest, most welcoming smiley face when greeting everybody at the door every very morning, and would do anything to help anyone.
Nigel always said, “If you can go through life laughing and smiling, then you’ve had a good life”, and he very much tried to make those around him laugh and smile every day. Dearne won’t ever be the same now he’s retired, he’s an absolute legend’
Katie Mitchell
While we’re sad to see him go, we are absolutely thrilled for Nigel as he begins his well-deserved retirement. We thank him for his incredible service, his friendship, and his immeasurable contributions to our college community. We hope he enjoys every single moment of this new chapter!
Raise a glass (or a coffee mug!) with us in a toast:
Thank you, Nigel, for everything. You’ll be deeply missed, but your legacy will always be a part of our campus!