THE new headteacher of Ponteland High School has been announced.

Stefan McElwee, currently deputy headteacher at the school, has been appointed as their new headteacher.

He will officially take up his post on September 1 and will replace Kieran McGrane, who is stepping down from the role after 10 years at the school. 

Mr McGrane will move to the role of Pele Trust Chief Executive Officer on a full-time basis.

Speaking of his appointment, Mr McElwee said: "It is such an honour to have been appointed to the position of Headteacher in such a fantastic school. I have enjoyed my role as Deputy Headteacher at Ponteland High School immensely so to have the opportunity to lead the school in the near future is a wonderful opportunity. 

"I am determined to build on the success of Mr McGrane by developing further our student-centred approaches to teaching and learning so students continue to feel happy and secure in school, maximising their opportunities to achieve exceptionally well in all aspects of their school life."

Mc McGrane said: "We were fortunate to be able to interview five excellent candidates who were put through a rigorous two-day process. Mr McElwee was the unanimous choice and showed why he is the right person for this important role. 

"I have absolutely loved being headteacher of Ponteland High School for the last 10 years but can move to my new role as Pele Trust CEO confident that the school is in great hands."