Steve Chapple has been appointed to lead Braddan Primary School from September, 16 years after he studied to be a teacher at the school.

The former graphic designer from Somerset started teaching at Victoria Road School in 2007, after completing his PGCE on the Isle of Man. He later moved to Scoill Phurt Le Moirrey where he has been second in command since 2017.

Mr Chapple will take over from the retiring Louise Oates who has been in charge of the school, which currently has 126 pupils, for 15 years.

He said: ‘I am honoured and excited to start working with everyone connected to Braddan School.

Having learnt to teach there as part of my training, I look forward to returning and building on the fantastic work of the current head.

‘I aim to nurture the pupils’ abilities to learn at school and develop their skills for further education and adult life.’

Julie Edge MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said: ‘I welcome the new head and wish him well. I would like to thank Mrs Oates for all she has done for the children at both Braddan and Ashley Hill and wish her a long and happy retirement.’