A teacher of the deaf, Deidre was presented with a surprise 40 years of service award in front of her colleagues, past and present students and their grateful parents.

At just 17, Deidre completed her teaching training and was in the workforce by age 18, beginning her first job in Sydney at what was then known as St Gabriel's School of the Deaf.

After teaching at Holman Place School for many years, Deidre began at Cowra Public eight years ago and said it's been a privilege to help her students.

"It's been a wonderful journey and I've enjoyed watching all my students progress," she said.

While she said they've all been special to her, Deidre said one ex-student in particular who attended the gathering made a big impact.

"Wayne, who I can see here with his lovely wife, was with me all the way back at Holman Place and he's just received his first cochlear implant," she said.

Principal Brad Tom thanked Deidre for her many years helping Cowra's students.

"We're all here today in recognition of the hard work and dedication that you've done," he said.

"You've made a huge difference to their lives and it's wonderful to have both your current and past students here today."