A BID to strengthen ties between Dunbar Grammar School and the surrounding community has spurred on the new head students.

Ahead of the end of the summer term, pupils had the chance to elect who would represent them over the coming 12 months.

Kirsty Brown and Donald Bird were selected to follow in the footsteps of Olivia Robbins and Katie-Sue Reece-Heal as the head students.

The S6 pupils are joined by six deputes.

Claire Slowther, who stepped down from the role of headteacher at the school at the end of term, said: “There was a huge interest from our new S6 to be part of the student leadership team.

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“For me as headteacher, it is extremely positive to see that, as a school, we have cultivated an ethos of ambition and leadership amongst our senior students.

“It meant, however, that recruitment was extremely competitive as the calibre was so high. Students completed an application, hustings speech and then faced both a student/staff vote plus an interview.

“I am delighted with the recruited team. They are full of energy, enthusiasm and ideas for the year ahead.

“I am confident that they will lead with confidence and passion and make a positive impact on the life and work of Dunbar Grammar School.”

Excited by role

Kirsty and Donald were both excited to be taking on the role.

Ahead of the start of the new school year, Kirsty said: “I’m really looking forward to being head student this year and I’m excited to work closely with the team.

“I’m passionate about helping everyone achieve their best and ensuring all students have equal support.

“I hope I can advocate for my peers and make a positive change in the school.”

Her colleague Donald was similarly looking forward to getting started.

He said: “I’m delighted to have been appointed as head student this year and can’t wait to see improvements being made around the school by our brilliant team.

“I’m also keen to strengthen the link between Dunbar Grammar and our local community.

“I have a passion for sports and technologies.”

Fellow S6 pupils Teagan Daley, Orla Demer, Aiden McNeill, Kathryn Anderson, Aisla Jennings-Gerlings and Heidi Baker have been appointed depute head students.

Teagan said: “Throughout Dunbar Grammar School, I have become more confident and that is thanks to the supportive community.

“I can’t wait to work with such an amazing team to bring some positive changes to Dunbar Grammar School.”

Meanwhile, Orla was hopeful of creating “a better experience for all pupils”.

She said: “I am looking forward to developing my leadership skills and helping foster a welcoming school environment.”

Aiden added: “I’m looking forward to working with our team to continue bettering our school community and maintaining a positive environment for both students and staff.”

Kathryn was “elated” to be appointed depute head student.

She told the Courier: “I’m incredibly excited to have the opportunity to work closely with this amazing team to ensure we continue to create a positive learning environment for all students here at Dunbar Grammar School.”

Aisla was looking forward to making “positive changes and strengthening the school community at Dunbar Grammar School”, while Heidi said: “This will be a great opportunity to enhance relationships within the school, both staff and students, and the wider community.”