11 November 2021

"I really feel like part of the gang already"

Caroline Roche has been confirmed as the new head teacher of Auchterless Primary School.

She was principal teacher at Fraserburgh North Primary School prior to taking up her new post.

Speaking about her reaction to finding out she had been selected as the new head teacher, Mrs Roche said: “I am delighted. I am so excited about the road ahead for Auchterless. I already feel really at home here. It’s nice. It’s like a big family and a lovely place to be. I went through to tell the children I had got the job and we did a conga around the school because they were all really excited too.

“The children have taken to me so well. I really feel like part of the gang already and they are so enthusiastic and cheery. Even on the days when I don’t have a class they come to the office and chat. They are really open and lovely kids.”

Making sure everyone is happy, settled, and progressing well and building relationships are Mrs Roche’s immediate priorities. Longer-term she would like to optimise the use of the community and to put Auchterless on the map, use the school’s outdoor space, make Auchterless a relevant part of the school’s curriculum and continue the ethos of the school.

Mrs Roche’s undergraduate degree was in Traditional Scottish Music at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland which she describes as a passion project. From those studies she decided to pursue a career in primary school teaching because it offered a more holistic career.

Her probationary year was at Dales Park School in Peterhead. She then taught at Arnage School. After that Mrs Roche worked in the nursery for a year at New Pitsligo and St John’s School. She then worked in a post providing social, emotional and behavioural support for children in the whole Mintlaw cluster before becoming principal teacher at Fraserburgh North School. It was in this role where Mrs Roche got a real taste for management.

Mrs Roche has the following guidance for any teacher considering becoming a head teacher. “Take the opportunities when they come. Find the things you can lead. Even if you are class committed the whole time, there’s always opportunities to push something through, so find something that you are passionate about and be the specialist on that. Make the most of the opportunities you are given because I know for certain there is a head teacher out there that really wants more help, so be the one that helps.”

Cllr Gillian Owen, Aberdeenshire Council’s Education and Children’s Services Committee chair, said: “Many congratulations to Caroline Roche. I am sure her enthusiasm and passion for teaching will rub off on the pupils inspiring them to learn and reach new heights. Pupils, parents and carers will find her approachable, warm and supportive. I am looking forward to seeing the progress Auchterless School will make under Caroline Roche’s capable leadership.”

Committee vice chair Cllr Rosemary Bruce added: “Well done Caroline Roche. She has gained experience in a variety of positions which will be useful when it comes to leading a school. She is a great fit for Auchterless School. I am sure she will be successful in her new role.”