BELMONT'S new head teacher has released her vision for the school in the form of a newsletter issued to parents and families.

Tracy Stewart took over from Sue Beatie at the end of last term and says she is determined to achieve the best results for her pupils and continue to provide beneficial opportunities both inside and out of the classroom.

She told parents: "I am personally delighted to have joined this school community and I have enjoyed putting together this newsletter as it has given me a great insight into what this school has been offering our pupils in and out of the classroom.

"I have been teaching for 23 years and for four of them I was the Head Teacher of two schools in North Ayrshire and so I am very much aware of the responsibility that my staff and I have in ensuring that the highest standard of teaching and learning is evident in all areas. 

"Equity and excellence are the key words in Scottish Education and my priority as Head Teacher is to ensure that Belmont Academy continues to aim to become an excellent equitable school — where no child is left behind.

"During this term I want to get to know the pupils, staff and school community. I will also set out our improvement agenda which will include the creation of an updated vision and core values which will underpin all the work we do.

"These values will have a huge impact as your child develops. They will help to deepen your child’s positive values and in doing so, help them consider the implications of their choices in relation to themselves, the communities from which they are part and the wider world. 

"All pupils, staff and other stakeholders will be involved in this process. From my experience I know how vital working in partnership with parents and carers are in order for children to find school a positive and motivating experience. 

"For our pupils to make excellent progress I strongly believe achievement and enjoyment go hand in hand. I hope you will support our high expectations in all areas, especially in behaviour, uniform standards and achievement. 

"To begin our working partnership I would like to meet with as many of you as possible and offer you an open invitation to meet with me on most Wednesday nights from 5 pm to 7 pm. Please contact the school office for details."

We will be providing more updates about the school's achievements on our class chat page in the coming weeks.