Chris Coole has been appointed headteacher of St Ninian’s High School with effect from September 2017.
He replaces Andy Fox, who has been the school’s head since 2009 and who retires in August.
Mr Coole attended Rushen Primary School and Castle Rushen High School. He graduated from the University of East Anglia with a degree in geography and development studies, then gained a Post Graduate Certificate in Education.
He started his career teaching geography at Queen Elizabeth II School before moving to the UK to work at Harrogate Granby High School and then, as head of geography, at Crawshaw School in Pudsey, West Yorkshire.
He returned to the Island in 2004 as head of geography at St Ninian’s and was promoted to be the school’s assistant headteacher.
For the last two years he has been a deputy headteacher at Ballakermeen High School.
He lives in Ballabeg with his wife and two daughters and, in his spare time, enjoys cycling and is a member of Ellan Vannin Cycling Club.
Mr Coole said: ‘While it will be sad to leave my colleagues at Ballakermeen, I am delighted to be returning to St Ninian’s and very much look forward to building on the good work of Mr Fox.
‘It is an exciting time in secondary education and I am very proud to be given the opportunity to lead this successful school.’
Geoff Moorcroft, Director of Education, paid tribute to the outgoing head, saying: ‘Andy’s dedication and commitment to education has been unwavering throughout his 32 years in Isle of Man schools.
‘Andy’s vision and commitment to the development of students as rounded individuals has helped to create a school with a reputation for being a friendly and welcoming place.
‘He oversaw an overhaul of the school’s curriculum, managed the development of the lower school at Bemahague and led a consistent improvement in the school’s standards. He has been responsible for providing numerous development opportunities for colleagues, creating many current and future leaders.
‘On behalf of the Department, I would like to wish him a happy and fulfilling retirement.’
St Ninian’s High School has 1,265 pupils on the register.
Photo - Chris Coole.
