LARGS Academy's new headteacher says he hopes to create an 'all-inclusive' school that is a focal point of the community.

John Doherty says he has a hard act to follow after replacing predecessor Heather Burns - but says he can't wait to immerse himself in school life.

He brings 18 years of teaching experience to the role and left his job as a deputy headteacher in Larbert to take up the promoted post.

Mr Docherty studied media at Stirling University and has spent most of his career working in the east of the county but originally hailed from Kilmarnock - and is thrilled to be back in Ayrshire.

He said: "Largs Academy has an excellent reputation and I have always wanted to work locally. I was very fortunate that everything fell in to place at the right time.

"I couldn't believe when I got a walk around the school. It is an incredible campus and, of course, there are some amazing views that come with it."

Mr Doherty is a few weeks into the role and says he is keen to start bringing his own ideas to the school.

He added "At the moment I think it is just important to observe all the excellent stuff that is already happening in the school and look at what else can be added.

"Obviously I have lots of ideas, but this is just the start.

"What is important for me is to make sure kids are supported as much as possible, that parents also feel included in the school community and that they want to be in regular contact with us.

"I think what's important for me is the relationships you build with staff, pupils and parents.

"My greatest achievement was at my previous school, where my role was working with a lot of vulnerable families and children in the community, was making sure the resources and proper support was there for them.

"We tried to bring services into the school to support people who are most disadvantaged."

Having worked as an English teacher initially in Balfron High in Stirling, Mr Doherty went on to become a guidance teacher before moving to Larbert as the head of English and later the deputy's role.

The dad-of-one says there are a number of things on the school calendar he is looking forward to enjoying for the first time.

He added: "I can't wait for the school show as I have heard how spectacular they are.

"We also have great access to sports facilities both in the school and at the sports centre, so hopefully we can continue to make full use of that.

"I am also pleased that there is such a strong focus around mental health. This is something I was very passionate about in my previous school.

"I am trained in it and it is great that marries in with what is already happening here.

"There are lots of opportunities with the primary schools and early years all being all under one roof, I think that is an area we want to strengthen and grow to make sure their is an easy transition for pupils.

"With that said I'm also mindful of the fact we have other schools outwith the campus so I plan over the next few weeks to go meet Fairlie, Skelmorlie and Cumbrae primaries so they feel involved and part of what we do, even though they aren't physically here.

"I am very excited for the future."