A WEST Devon headteacher was one of nine who attended a special event hosted by Devon?s schools chief last week in celebration of more than 200 years? service to children in the county. Jill Bevis, head of Highampton Primary School, has been teaching in Devon for 28 years. She and the other eight headteachers were invited to a special buffet supper in Exeter and presented with long service certificates by the chairman of Devon County Council, Brenda Taylor. Anne Whiteley, director of children?s services for the county, told them: ?You are at the very centre of what we do in giving life chances to our young people and contributing to raising standards of learning and attainment. ?I want to say a very personal thank you for your commitment and professionalism. ?Whenever I visit schools I am always struck by the passion our teachers have for learning, their commitment to our children and young people and how they open up their horizons. ?Every one of Devon?s 374 schools is unique but every one is committed to raising aspirations and achievement for our young people and ensuring they have the brightest possible future. ?You have all made a massive contribution to that hugely worthwhile goal.?