THE new head teacher of a Greenock secondary school says she has 'high aspirations' for all of her pupils.

Anne Munro took over at Notre Dame High at the beginning of the new term in August.

Ms Munro, whose previous role was depute head at Queen Margaret Academy in Ayr, says it was the 'strong sense of community' that attracted her to the Dunlop Street high school.

She told the Tele: "Despite being unable to do proper introductions with pupils at assemblies because of restrictions, I've felt so welcomed into the school.

"I've made the best of the situation and have been going around classes and ensuring young people know my door is open if they want to chat.

"This area may be one that has a poorer demographic, but all of our pupils are simply just young people and regardless of their background, we will support them and encourage them to have high aspirations."

Anne, who is a keen swimmer, hopes to build upon already established visions, values and aims within the school community to honour late teacher, Gerry McHugh, who sadly died last year after contracting coronavirus.

Anne told the Tele: "Despite having never had the privilege of meeting Gerry, everyone I meet has stories that show how incredibly well thought of he was.

"Before the summer, the school pledged to rewrite our values in Mr McHugh's honour.

"That is something we will be continuing and taking our time with to ensure we get it absolutely right."

Anne is one of many new head teachers who has taken over at Inverclyde nurseries, primary and high schools since the beginning of the new term.

Former Notre Dame head teacher Kate Couttie, who retired before the summer break, today wished her 'every success' in the new role.

Kate said: "It was a true privilege to lead Notre Dame High School.

"The young people of Inverclyde are exceptionally talented and the schools in the area benefit greatly from their ability in arts, music and sports as well as the hard work that our teachers contribute to ensure that they achieve a high standard of exam results.

"I was unable to say goodbye to the pupils due to restrictions on gatherings but this has been the experience of all pupils moving from one stage to another.

"I wish the staff and pupils every success for the future under the leadership of the new head teacher."