Acting headteacher appointed to dual role while recruitment process continues

A NEW acting headteacher has been appointed to lead schools in Sandwick and Fair Isle until the end of the year.

Melvyn Clark will perform the dual role at Fair Isle primary, which has two pupils, and Sandwick Junior High School from August to December 2025.

Shetland Islands Council said Clark would support the two schools “while the recruitment process for a permanent headteacher is concluded”.

Parents were informed of the news in an email sent out last week, with children’s services chief Samantha Flaws saying Clark “brings with a wealth of experience as a school leader”.

“He is a well-known and respected member of the South Mainland community, and we are confident his leadership will be of great benefit to both school communities,” she said.

Clark has also served as headteacher at the Cunningsburgh primary, a post he will return to after Christmas.

Andrea Henderson will continue as link officer at Sandwick Junior High School, Flaws said, while Chloe Kerr will also support the school in Fair Isle.

“Their ongoing involvement provides valuable continuity, as both have strong knowledge of the schools and will play an important role in supporting this transition period,” Flaws said.

She said she hoped this provides parents with “reassurance as we move into the school holidays”.