When Louise Nicol was given the opportunity to work as a supply teacher at Rothesay Joint Campus on a temporary, three month basis, she jumped at the chance. Much to Louise’s delight, the position got extended and, 22 years later, she is still working at the school and has moved up the ranks to become head teacher.
Louise started her teaching career at Trinity High School in Renfrew, where she worked as an English teacher, before making the move to Bute in 1997.
“I was inspired by my own positive experiences of teachers when I was at school in Erskine and really wanted a job that enabled me to work with others and make a difference to the lives of young people,” she said.
“I love living and working on Bute, it is a beautiful part of the world and provides a great work/life balance. All I need to do to switch off is go for a walk on one of the many beaches we have. They look beautiful whatever the weather,” she said.
“Working at Rothesay Joint Campus means I have the best of both worlds, rural island living but only 90 minutes from Glasgow. Teaching in a rural community means that I get to know pupils and their families really well, often over a couple of generations.
“I have very supportive colleagues across the local authority too and our school has established really strong links with the local community, particularly employers.”
Louise believes that working in a rural setting provides excellent opportunities for young people and is a great place to raise a family.
“Outdoor learning is a huge part of our curriculum,” she said. “We regularly take part in beach and forest school activities. These locations are right on our doorstep and are a great way of giving children and young people the opportunity to learn and develop in a natural environment. I would thoroughly recommend a teaching career in Argyll and Bute.”