A new head teacher has been appointed at Saltus Grammar School, it was revealed tonight.

Julie Rousseau, from Canada, will take over from Deryn Lavell at the private school next summer.

Ms Rousseau said: “I am thrilled to be appointed as the next head of Saltus Grammar School and am excited to have the opportunity to build on the tremendous accomplishments and strategic vision of the school established under Deryn Lavell’s leadership.

“I am excited for the opportunity to develop caring and meaningful connections with the entire Saltus school community and look forward to learning about the island’s rich history and embracing the vibrant Bermudian culture.”

A spokeswoman for the school added: “Ms Rousseau brings proven leadership abilities and in-depth knowledge of Canadian accredited independent schools standards.

“Her experiences resonate powerfully with Saltus’s mission of inspiring students to lead us to a more just, fair, and sustainable world.

“The selection committee was unanimous in its opinion that she was the best candidate and is looking forward to her arrival.”

The spokeswoman added the appointment was made following “a comprehensive search that attracted top candidates from around the world”.

Ms Rousseau is a graduate of McGill University in Montreal, and has spent her career as a teacher and principal in schools in Canada.

She is at present the head of York House School in Vancouver.

Gil Tucker, the chairman of the school’s board of trustees, said he was confident that Ms Rousseau would “build upon the strategic vision set out by the board and outgoing head of school Deryn Lavell, and lead our community ably into the future.”

Mr Tucker also expressed the board’s “appreciation and gratitude” to Ms Lavell, who has been head for the past five years.

He said: “Ms. Lavell was instrumental in developing our strategic plan, defining the pillars – community, stability, programme, image – that continue to guide our journey.

“In addition, she made significant strides in fostering a diverse, inclusive, innovative school community and advancing our academic mission to ensure our students are well prepared to meet the demands of our complex, interconnected world.”

Mr Tucker added: “More recently, she guided Saltus through the challenges posed by the global pandemic, helping to safeguard the health and wellbeing of our students, teachers, staff, and families.

“We are grateful for everything she has contributed to the Saltus community and proud of what we have accomplished together.”

The appointment is subject to approval by the immigration department.