Head Teacher sought for Orkney’s “Queen o’ the Isles”

Orkney’s “Queen o’ the Isles” – Westray – is a very special community and the Council is seeking an equally special person to lead the island’s school.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Head Teacher at the Junior High School, which caters for 87 pupils, aged from 3-16, in Westray - one of Orkney’s North Isles.

Westray is a thriving, forward-thinking community but, equally the near 600 residents are proud of their history and heritage.

Although vibrant with plenty going on, Westray, which is around 18 squares miles in size, hasn’t lost any sense of island charm – as many visitors will pay testament too, visit once and you will return time and again.

Stunning sea cliffs, sandy beaches, an array of local businesses and a rich history can be found on Westray. One of the most fascinating finds uncovered in Orkney in recent memory was a tiny carved sandstone figurine found at the Links of Noltland excavation in 2009 known as ‘the Orkney Venus’ (or locally as ‘the Westray Wife’). It’s the earliest representation of a human found in Scotland and is on display at the island’s excellent Heritage Centre in Pierowall.

If you enjoy wildlife then Westray is a haven – many return time and again to witness the puffin and other seabird colonies. There’s a 9-hole golf course, art galleries, excellent food producers, a hotel, bistro, café, chippy, several shops, GP surgery, youth groups and club, a play park and play group…the list goes on.

Key to the island’s success and at the heart of the community is the island’s school, which is nestled in the village of Pierowall.

The school has a committed staff team of 18 – many of whom have been there a long time. There are also a number of visiting itinerant teachers.

The school buildings are in very good order and are well resourced. There is a Healthy Living Centre adjacent, incorporating a modern fitness suite and swimming pool. The school also serves as a Community Centre, with very good facilities well used by both pupils and island residents. The school enjoys support from its active Parent Council and community.

Pupils engage in a very positive learning environment and as a result high expectations of achievement and encouragement have been set. Links with other schools and the Orkney College are constantly being developed electronically and children’s experiences are enhanced in a variety of other ways with an aim to provide equity of provision for all young people in Westray.

The role of Head Teacher has a wide remit covering the leadership and management of the Early Years setting, Primary and Secondary stages. Almost all pupils stay on to complete their Secondary 4 year, where they take a full range of National courses. Students who continue in their Senior Phase will normally complete their studies at Kirkwall Grammar School while staying in the Papdale Halls of Residence.

Don’t just take our word for how special the school is, read staff and pupils thoughts here: Staff and pupils share reasons why Westray School is so special in search for new Head (orkney.gov.uk)

Find out more about Westray via the official Westray and Papa Westray website.

Further information about the school can be found on the school website www.westrayjuniorhighschool.co.uk or their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/WestraySchool/

The job advert can be viewed here: https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/orkney-islands-council/jobs/head-teacher-westray-junior-high-school-288032

Prospective applicants are invited to discuss the post by contacting Jane Partridge, Service Manager (Secondary and Tertiary Education), e-mail jane.partridge@glow.orkneyschools.org.uk

The closing date for applications is Sunday 21 August 2022.