Today Carmel Booker will walk out of the Montessori Preschool in Blackheath one last time.
The teacher, who has worked at the school for 18 years, first in Katoomba and now Blackheath, is retiring to dedicate her time to friends, family, travel and voluntary work.
She has long been impressed with the Montessori method, developed a century ago by Dr Maria Montessori, which fosters children's love of learning and encourages independence by providing an environment of activities and materials which children use at their own pace. The method is said to build self-confidence, inner discipline, a sense of self-worth and instils positive social behaviour.
"She was a great thinker and genius of her time," Ms Booker said.
She said the Montessori method had "deepened her understanding of how we as adults should allow them [kids] to continue to grow. We observe their growth of independence and guide them towards that."
Teaching has enriched her life greatly, she said. She's enjoyed working with young children, hearing the funny things they say and seeing them develop new skills.
"[I've enjoyed] witnessing their joy and concentration as they put things together ... to get to that 'aha' moment, develop their intelligence and be able to do things by themselves."
She's worked with experienced, talented and committed staff over the years and families with multiple siblings who have gone through the school, some second generation families even returning.
School graduates have gone on to a variety of careers. One student doing particularly well for himself is Commonwealth Games runner Ben St Lawrence. Ms Booker remembers him as a lively little boy.
The teacher will be replaced by Julie Stenner at the 24-place centre.
Parents committee president Andrew Kable said, "Carmel is one of those special people who not only finds joy in working with young children, but also finds professional satisfaction in the intellectual challenge of providing the highest possible standard of education.
"Carmel has not just educated many hundreds of Blue Mountains children, but has also played a critical part in creating a lasting institution in the Blue Gum Montessori Children's House."
Ms Booker is embracing the changes this next chapter in her life will bring.
As a parent once said to her, "In order to catch a trapeze you have to let go of one."
