Rachel Ashley has been appointed as the new headteacher for Henry Bloom Noble Primary School.
Mrs Ashley has 23 years’ teaching experience, including six as headteacher at Andreas Primary School. She will take over the position from Ian Walmsley with effect from September 2019.
Mr Walmsley has been the current head of the primary school since 2008 (initially at Fairfield) and will be retiring in July.
Born on the Isle of Man, Mrs Ashley was educated at Willaston Primary School and St Ninian’s High School before completing a BA honours degree in education and geography at Durham University, graduating in 1995.
She taught in Stockton-on-Tees before returning to the Isle of Man in 1999 to take up a teaching post at Onchan Primary School. She became deputy headteacher at Victoria Road in 2007 and was appointed headteacher at Andreas in 2012.
Mrs Ashley holds the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) and supports literacy in primary schools for the Department of Education Sport and Culture (DESC). She said:
‘I’m very much looking forward to taking up my new position at Henry Bloom Noble and to work with the pupils, parents, governors and staff at the school.
‘My aim is to inspire the pupils to fulfil their full potential and to encourage them to enjoy learning through the great facilities and resources that the school offers.’
‘I will look back fondly on my time at Andreas School and the wonderful community which surrounds and supports it. It has been my pleasure to work with fantastic children and a committed, hard-working staff. ‘
Geoff Moorcroft, Director of Education for DESC, said:
‘Ian’s work at the school has been invaluable, and he’s been a great inspiration to the pupils and staff over the years. I wish him the best in his retirement and would like to thank him for his commitment and passion towards educating our Island’s students.
‘I am confident that Rachel will bring a wealth of experience to Henry Bloom Noble and continue the great work being done there.’
