HOLYROOD Academy has announced its new headteacher who took over at the start of tis month.

Dave MacCormick has been part of the senior leadership team at Holyrood for the past three and a half years and prior to this, he was an assistant headteacher in Plymouth for four years.

Dave, a keen cyclist and triathlete, brings with him a range of experience in pastoral provision and leadership across Key Stages 3, 4 and 5.

He also has extensive experience of raising standards across various schools, particularly in improving GCSE and A-Level support and outcomes for students.

Mr MacCormick said: “I am delighted and proud to have been appointed as the new headteacher for Holyrood Academy.

"I feel humbled and excited to have the opportunity to lead this school and build upon its many strengths.

"Some families may be understandably nervous about the changes in leadership at Holyrood and I wish to reassure the community that I am very aware of the strengths and areas for development of the academy.

"Every decision I make will have the very best interests of our students at heart and I welcome your feedback on any aspect of what we do.

"I am very fortunate to lead a dedicated and skilled team of staff who work tirelessly in the best interests of our students.”

The school has invited anyone from the community - including families, carers and businesses - to attend a presentation and informal Q&A session on Tuesday, January 28, at 6pm in the Upper Site Hall.

Mr MacCormick added: “I believe that the best schools have very open and positive relationships with their communities and I hope this opportunity to ask any questions of my senior leadership team and I will pave the way for improving our links and communication with everyone involved with the school.”

“My beliefs about education are very simple. I believe that every student, regardless of background or ability, should be supported and challenged to achieve the very best they can.

"Academic achievement is of paramount importance here and education has a unique power to unlock doors to opportunities in the future - this is the core purpose of Holyrood."

Matt Collins stood down as the school's headteacher at the end of the last school year.

Last September, the school joined the Uffculme Academy Trust. The trust's chief executive Lorraine Heath took over as Holyrood's acting headteacher, and said they hoped to have a permanent replacement in place for the start of January.

"We are a comprehensive school and as such we are absolutely committed to making sure that every child's ambitions are nurtured and encouraged," Mr MacCormick added.

"Alongside this and of equal importance is the wider set of opportunities that students get to experience success on the stage, in creative arts, on a trip or on the sports field.

"I make no apology for wanting our students to achieve fantastically well whilst enjoying school in a happy and safe environment.”

Mr MacCormick feels the term has started extremely positively and is relishing the challenge that lies ahead.

He promises to work tirelessly in all areas and welcomes any feedback from the community.