New Head Teacher for Nairn Academy

The new Head Teacher of the 800-pupil Nairn Academy is Mrs Julie Macdonald, Depute Head Teacher at Alva Academy, Clackmannanshire.

Mrs Macdonald hopes to take up her new post before the end of the school session to ensure a smooth hand over from the Acting Head Teacher Douglas Simpson, whose substantive post is Head Teacher at Fortrose Academy.

Mrs MacDonald, who is married with two sons Euan (4) and Finlay (1), began her teaching career as a home economics teacher at Lochgilphead High School, Argyll.   In 1992, she  moved to Auchterarder High School as a principal teacher of home economics.

Her move to Alva Academy, Clackmannanshire, as Depute Head Teacher of the 1,000 pupil school came in 1997.

Mrs Macdonald said: "I am delighted to be appointed to the post of Head Teacher at Nairn Academy.  This is a very exciting opportunity to build on the existing good work already underway.  I am looking forward to working with all pupils, staff, parents and the wider community over the coming years.”

Convener of The Highland Council Councillor Sandy Park, Nairn, warmly welcomed the appointment.

He said: “I am delighted that we have made this appointment and look forward to the contribution Mrs Macdonald will make in building on the foundations for improvement laid by Mr Simpson. The appointment comes as the Council prepares to make a significant investment in an extension to the school.”