A TEACHER is being appointed at each of East Lothian’s secondary schools to help close the attainment gap.

Ashley McDonald has taken on the new post of principal teacher of equity at Dunbar Grammar School, while Hannah McBride has taken on the same role at Haddington’s Knox Academy.

James Mumford has been appointed at North Berwick High School, while Nicky Bidder is in the role at Ross High School and Katie Vines has taken up the post at Preston Lodge High School. Interviews are being carried out at Musselburgh Grammar School.

The posts have been created as a result of the Strategic Equity Funding allocated to all local authorities by the Scottish Government.

Ms McDonald said: “I believe a role like this has never been more important, particularly in the current social and economic climate.

“Having taught at Dunbar for the past seven years, I have built good relationships with staff, pupils and parents/carers across the school community.

“I’m looking forward to getting stuck into this new role, as it offers me a new challenge professionally and allows me to continue working in a school I have a strong personal connection to. I’m also passionate about improving outcomes for all young people in our community and I am hoping that I can make a difference to help close the poverty-related attainment gap in my new role.”

The principal teachers of equity will look to help close the poverty-related attainment gap, focusing on literacy, numeracy, school attendance, post-school destinations and the achievement of National Qualifications.

A spokeswoman for East Lothian Council said: “The role of principal teacher of equity presents a really exciting opportunity in each secondary school to support children and young people to reach their full potential.”