Well known face returns to Papay Headteacher role

Tim Ross is returning to Papay School as Headteacher from the start of next term. 

Tim spent time leading Westray Junior High School, however he missed the unique role at Papay and with the Headteacher position remaining vacant, he will be taking up the reins once more. 

Julie Muir takes up the position of Headteacher at Westray Junior High School in August. 

Tim will return to the Papay job – looking after six children from nursery to P7. 

The Council’s Corporate Director of Education, Leisure and Housing, James Wylie, said: “The school and community on Papa Westray will be welcoming Tim back as a respected Headteacher there previously. We, as an employer, are flexible and open to that and have supported Tim back to the role at Papay. 

“Mhairi Mackay, Acting Headteacher since September 2023, led the school with enthusiasm and commitment, providing a quality learning experience for the pupils and effective leadership to the school. This included leading the school through a very successful HMIe Inspection in April of this year. We are grateful to the commitment and dedication to Papay School shown by Ms Mackay.” 

The Council’s Chair of the Education, Leisure and Housing Committee, Councillor Gwenda Shearer said: “I am delighted that the Council has been able to support Tim back into the role at Papay that he clearly loved. Both Papay and Westray Schools are unique for different reasons, and we are moving into the new term with Headteachers at the helm that I have every confidence will do a sterling job. I wish them both well.”