THE head of a Wee County secondary school has handed over the reins following her six-year stay.

Mrs Sharee MacKerron had the “absolute privilege” to carry out her duties as head teacher at Alva Academy since 2011 and left her post last week.

She had been overseeing the education of nearly 900 students each year, making sure operations ran smoothly.

In a statement to pupils and parents, posted on the school's website, she said: “As this is my final week as head teacher of Alva Academy, I would like to finish by saying that it has been an absolute privilege to have held the post in our school and to thank you for sending your daughters and sons to Alva Academy.

“Over the six years, I have worked very hard and tried my best to make this school a happy, energetic and successful place for our young people so that they achieve and flourish.

“I hope I have done that and I hope that I have never let you down.”

Taking over the role will be Mr Scott McEwan in April, with Mr Phil Arnold steering the ship in the meantime.

The outbound head wished them both every success, adding: “I would ask you to give them your full support so that Alva Academy can continue on its journey of even greater success.”

The Friends of Alva Academy – with head pupils Finlay Ulrichsen, Glenn McKerracher, Megan McKenna and Ellie Galindo – surprised her with a framed collection of photos depicting Hillfoots scenes and including the school's coat of arms.