Appointment to Head of Education Role

A new Head of Education has been appointed at Orkney Islands Council. 

Wendy Bowen will pick up the reins from Peter Diamond, who retires at the end of the month.  

Wendy brings a wealth of experience to the role, having worked in education for over 30 years, including more than 20 years in education management.  

She has served Orkney’s communities for the past eleven and a half years, first as Head Teacher at Sanday Junior High School, then Papdale Primary School, and most recently as Quality Improvement Officer for Attainment and Achievement. 

Her new strategic leadership role comes with responsibility for the delivery and continuous improvement of education services across the islands. She will be leading a team of dedicated professionals and working closely with schools, communities, and partners to ensure the highest standards of learning and achievement for all learners. 

Wendy said: “I am passionate about education and care deeply for the learners of Orkney. It is a great honour to be appointed to lead Education Services in Orkney.  

“I look forward to working together with all our educational establishments and partners to ensure we are meeting the needs of our learners. I am keen to ensure that equity and excellence are the cornerstone of all the work we do, paving the way for every learner to achieve their fullest potential.” 

James Wylie is Director of Education, Communities and Housing. He said: “Wendy’s enthusiasm and passion for equity and excellence for all children and young people in her care has spanned three decades. Given her experience across primary and secondary education she has a deep understanding of the complexity of providing education across a variety of diverse communities and how national policy should be implemented in our context.” 

Wendy will take up her new post on 3 November.