If the news hasn’t already filtered out, I am pleased to let everyone know that following last week’s interview, I was successful in becoming the new Head Teacher of Moniaive, Dunscore and Duncow Primary Schools.  Officially I am the ‘preferred candidate’ pending reference and PVG checks, however, I am fairly confident these are formalities.  All being well, I shall take up the post on Monday 6th January when the three schools officially come together as a partnership.

Personally, I am absolutely delighted to have got the job and would like to thank everyone – colleagues, parents, pupils and members of the community – who have been so encouraging over the past few weeks.  Your support has been much appreciated.

I am aware that, as with any change of this scale,  some of you may have concerns as to how the new partnership will operate and how it will impact on the pupils.  Obviously there will be challenges ahead, however, I do believe that there will be significant benefits to our pupils in the ability to share resources, expertise and good practice that the partnership will bring.  I look forward to working together with the wider school communities in Moniaive, Dunscore and Duncow to achieve the very best for our children.

As I will no longer have a teaching commitment, one of my first priorities will be to ensure that all staffing is in place for our return after Christmas.   This is already in hand, and I shall keep you informed as staff are confirmed.

In the meantime, I look forward to continuing to work with Moniaive and getting to know everyone at Dunscore and Duncow.