New headteacher unveiled for West Lothian secondary school

Shona Wallace has been appointed as the new head teacher of Broxburn Academy.

Ms Wallace will join Broxburn Academy at the start of the new academic term in August replacing long serving head teacher Peter Reid who will be retiring at the end of the current school term.

Ms Wallace graduated from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne with a PGCE in Chemistry and Science before starting her teaching career in the Northeast of England, teaching in both the Primary and Secondary sector.

Her career brought her back into Scotland in 2014 following the birth of her son and she took up various roles within Edinburgh schools including Principal Teacher of Chemistry at Balerno High School, Curriculum Leader of Science and Acting Depute Head at Craigmount High School

She completed the intensive Into Headship Qualification at the University of Edinburgh in 2017 before taking up the post as Depute Head of Pupil Support at Broughton High School.

During this time, Ms Wallace was also seconded as Depute Head Teacher to Kaimes School (Specialist provision) in 2022 and more recently as Acting Head Teacher of Craigroyston HS in 2022- 2023.

Ms Wallace said: “It is such a privilege to be joining Broxburn Academy as the new Headteacher.

“Broxburn is a thriving and caring community, and I am overwhelmed by the warm welcome and kindness shown to me. I am passionate about education, and the opportunities it affords in improving outcomes for young people and their families and I am ambitious for what we will achieve together.

“My vision for our school is one where we provide equal opportunities for all and nurture every young person to thrive and do their best, where everyone feels supported and valued, and innovation and excellence are at the forefront of everything we do.

“Creating a positive ethos and an inclusive culture will be essential. We will work together to ensure that our school is a safe and happy place where respect, support, and a focus on well-being for all are central to our work. In addition, engaging with our students, their families, and the wider community will be key to our success.

“I look forward to working with everyone to set specific goals that align with this vision and to develop together the strategies to achieve them.

“I am excited for what lies ahead as together we create and deliver a new vision of excellence for our school. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Peter Reid for his generosity and time in ensuring a smooth handover and wish him well in his retirement.”

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