Achiltibuie and Lochinver Primary hunt to fill headteacher role ‘with huge benefits’
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Achiltibuie and Lochinver Primary schools are hoping to be third time lucky in their search for a headteacher to fill a £61k role in “beautiful area with huge benefits”.
Highland Council first launched the search for a new headteacher for the Lochinver and Achiltibuie Primary School cluster back in September 2023, followed another attempt to recruit in February – but both candidates pulled out withdrew citing personal reasons.
Now, with hopes to be third time lucky, the primary school cluster has renewed its search for a headteacher.
The rural Wester Ross and Sutherland teaching job is offering £60,627 a year, for the full-time, 35 hours a week permanent post.
With applications closing on April 1, the two west coast schools are looking for a confident and courageous person, who can articulate a vision and give direction for the school, whilst inspiring others.
Some of the essential criteria for the role includes at least three years of successful experience as a teacher in a primary school.
Lizzie Williams, chairperson of Achiltibuie Primary Parent Council and parent of two children at the school, shared how this job opportunity could be the perfect role for the right person.
She said: “We fear we will fail again to find a headteacher if we don’t try something different.
“These tiny schools are just hanging on and are so, so vital to the viability of these communities, which face so many difficulties. We need to support them in every way we can.
“Its such a great opportunity to make a direct difference to the lives of these individual families and really make an impact.”
Lizzie continued: “Young families are vital to the community, and having a thriving school is really important to attract families to live and move here. Without a strong school, you’re not a viable community, and having a good headteacher is really key for this.
“Currently, our acting headteacher Aileen MacDonald is brilliant, but she has got another role and wouldn’t be able to cover for the cluster after June. If we don’t find someone suitable to fill the role, we don’t know what will happen in August.
“Anyone who comes into the community would be so welcomed – the benefits of living in this area are huge. There’s so much value in this job opportunity as more than just a role, but as a whole lifestyle in this beautiful part of the world.
“Being based in Ullapool is also an option, with a very doable commute that many do on a daily-basis.”
To view the full job listing, visit here.
