Deryn Lavell, the new Head of Saltus Grammar School, has paid a visit to the island before starting her role in September.

Ms Lavell said one of the reasons for wanting the job was the chance to follow in the footsteps of the Ted Staunton.“Being able to follow Ted, who I know from Canada, and to build on his legacy at Saltus is a huge opportunity,” she said.Ms Lavell, who is the Head of the Bishop Strachan School in Toronto, took time to meet students, parents, trustees, alumni and staff while on island recently. It was one of a number of visits she will make to the school.She said there were many challenges facing children in the 21st century, including shifting economic outlooks and fast-paced technological changes.“As educators we need to be aware of these and how we can best educate students to be prepared,” she said.“The students were so friendly, open and welcoming, and they were clearly enjoying their learning. I am looking forward to building on the foundations of an excellent school.“I will be taking time to get to know Bermuda, which is a wonderful place, to learn about the community and the place that Saltus has in that community.”Ms Lavell received her education degree and master's of educational administration from the University of Victoria and maintains her professional certification in education from the British Columbia College of Teachers. She was also a PhD candidate at the University of Toronto (Curriculum Theory and Development) Leadership and Change Process.She has held a variety of leadership roles with the Canadian Accredited Independent Schools and serves as a coaching member of the National School Reform Faculty.She also designed a new Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 schools in Abu Dhabi, developed and implemented a total school start-up plan, and served as the school's first principal.Ms Lavell has also taught at Glenlyon Norfolk School and held a leadership position at Queen Margaret's School, both in British Columbia, Canada. Her early career in education was as an elementary schoolteacher and music specialist. She was the Head of BSS Primary before moving to Abu Dhabi and returned to head up the whole school.• For more information, contact Jeremy Deacon, Deep Blue Communications, at jdeacon@northrock.bm or call 534 2205