New Director of Education for South Ayrshire Council

Scott Mulholland has been appointed as South Ayrshire Council's Director of Education.

Scott was selected as the successful candidate following an intensive assessment centre and panel interview process.

Scott has been the Council's Assistant Director of Education since his appointment in to this post in October 2022.  Prior to that, he led South Ayrshire's Inclusion Service as Quality Improvement Manager and Coordinator. This role also saw Scott lead on a number of service priorities designed to improve the outcomes of young people across the authority. Before this, he was Depute Head Teacher at Dundonald Primary School.  Scott originally trained as a primary teacher and has worked in various schools across South Ayrshire.  Scott has built extensive experience nationally with His Majesty's Inspectorate of Education (HMIE) as an Associate Assessor in the primary school inspection programme and through his work with the Association of Directors of Education in Scotland.

Scott, who has been acting Director of Education since June this year, will take up the permanent role with immediate effect.

South Ayrshire Council's Chief Executive, Cleland Sneddon, said:

"I'm pleased to welcome Scott into the permanent role of Director of Education. Children and young people in South Ayrshire deserve the best education provision and this role is crucial in delivering this.  I'm confident that Scott's extensive experience, drive and passion will see him work with teachers and education staff to ensure South Ayrshire's schools and early years centres stand out for all the right reasons."

South Ayrshire Council's Director of Education, Scott Mulholland, said:

"I am delighted to be appointed as Director of Education and lead the work of our Educational Services.  As someone who grew up in South Ayrshire and worked in our communities for 18 years, I know the importance and impact that a positive educational experience can have. I look forward to building on the excellent work of our staff, children, and communities, and to continue to focus our efforts on improving outcomes for all children and young people."