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A born and bred Orcadian – with a breadth of teaching experience across Orkney – has been appointed Head Teacher of Evie and Firth Primary Schools.

Mrs Emma Jane Rendall, from Stenness, says the “exceptional” life experiences growing up, living and working in the county have led her on a path which now allows her the chance to give something back to communities.

An update on current and soon-to-commence road resurfacing works as at 10 November, including impacts on public bus services:

Four Papdale Primary School classes – P3M, P6E, P7E and P7M - will remain closed for the rest of this week mainly due to COVID-19-related staffing issues and a continuous small rise in pupil cases across these classes.

The last financial year was a unique one for Orkney Ferries, councillors at today's (9 November) Development and Infrastructure Committee (D&I) heard.

Due to the ongoing reduction in staffing at Papdale Primary School due to COVID-19, classes P7E and P7M will now be closed up to and including Wednesday.

We are aware of parental and public concern within the community in regards to the ongoing COVID situation at Papdale Primary School and some unfortunate speculation circulating on social media. We thought it may be helpful to provide some background and explain some of the reasoning behind why a school remains open and how and when a decision is made on whether to close in full or partially.

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Orkney and Shetland Islands Councils have taken a significant step forward in joint working on the Islands Growth Deal, which aims to draw down £100m in UK and Scottish Government funding over the next decade, and to lever in over £200m in match funding to the islands.

Orkney Islands Council was announced winner of the Community Involvement category at the LGC Awards 2021, for its work with local communities during the pandemic to protect, inform and reassure.

Due to significantly reduced staffing levels and a stretched teaching supply list as a result of COVID-19, there will be a full closure of Papdale Nursery and a partial closure of Papdale Primary from Monday to Wednesday 8-10 November

The number of positive COVID-19 cases amongst children and staff attending Papdale Primary School has risen to 27 (25 pupils and 2 staff) as of Friday 5 November.