Parents and former pupils appeal for new Head Teacher to lead their “unique” school

Papa Westray - one of Orkney’s smallest islands – is seeking a new Head Teacher to lead the school and embrace community life.

Known locally as “Papay”, the island has a population of around 85, and a school roll of nine at present – five pupils and four nursery children.

Parents, many of whom are former pupils, have joined an appeal to find a “special person” to join their close-knit community and continue to develop the unique opportunities afforded by the school.

They have issued a joint ask: “As parents and previous pupils of Papa Westray Community School we feel that Papay school is unique. Not only a unique place to teach but also a unique school environment to be brought up in.  The children are mixing with all ages and learning how to adapt to many different situations.

“The Head Teacher is not only a teacher at the school but also a member of the community and needs to be able to join in with the locals and be part of island life. In Papay there is a strong sense of community and there is always something on or someone to talk to, whether it be the annual fun weekend or just bumping in to neighbours at the local coffee morning. Being a community school building, the Head Teacher is often involved with community events, as such, someone who likes to take part and lend a hand would be ideal.

“As we are a close-knit community, it is essential to build a strong working relationship with the parents and staff.”

Find out more about Papay here https://www.orkney.com/explore/papa-westray or www.papawestray.co.uk

Further information about the school and our activities can be found at https://blogs.glowscotland.org.uk/or/papay/

The job advert can be viewed here: https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/orkney-islands-council/jobs/head-teacher-papa-westray-primary-school-317431

The closing date for applications is Sunday 5 March 2023.

Full story here: https://www.orkney.gov.uk/News?postid=7140