New head will take the helm at high school

A new head teacher will take the helm at Fife’s Bell Baxter High School later this year after the sudden departure of Carol Ann Penrose.

An update to parents confirmed the appointment and details of the school’s new leadership.

It says Lynn Black will arrive at the school in Cupar part-way through the first term, with a depute head from Dunfermline appointed acting head teacher until her arrival.

The latest school newsletter said: “We can confirm that Mrs Lynn Black will take up the position of head teacher part of the way through term one next session.

“In the meantime we are delighted to inform you that Mr Craig Parnham has been appointed as acting head teacher on a temporary basis.

“Mr Parnham is currently a very experienced depute head at Woodmill High School in Dunfermline and he is very much looking forward to supporting the school as the new term begins.

“Time has been identified to link with Mrs Smart and the team over the final days of this term to support a smooth transition.”

Ms Black is head of Beeslack High School in Penicuik, Midlothian, a role she was appointed to in 2015.

Originally a music teacher, Ms Black also spent time as a depute head teacher in Falkirk.

It comes after the abrupt departure of the previous head, Carol Ann Penrose, whose resignation was confirmed in November after much speculation.

Parents previously said the changes put in place at the school by Ms Penrose had not always been popular.

The Courier understands Ms Penrose is now working as a French teacher at a West Lothian school.