Musselburgh Grammar School headteacher Colin Gerrie leaving for job in Dubai

In a letter to parents, he announced that it was with "very mixed emotions" that he would be leaving his post at the school at the end of session 2021 in June.

He said: "I have recently been informed that I am the preferred candidate for the post of head of secondary at Greenfield International School in Dubai.

"Whilst I will be sad to leave Musselburgh Grammar School and will miss our fantastic students and staff, I will do so knowing that the school will continue to go from strength to strength."

He said that East Lothian Council would now have time to recruit a successor in the months ahead which would allow for "a seamless transition".

Mr Gerrie took over as headteacher at Musselburgh Grammar in February 2015.

He said: "The Grammar is firmly rooted in the local community. I have greatly valued getting to know and work with many people and organisations who do such wonderful work."

He also paid tribute to colleagues, parents, carers and the community, saying: "Throughout my time at the Grammar, I have worked with many highly committed and talented colleagues.

"They have shared a desire to provide the highest possible quality of learning and teaching for our young people.

"I have also valued the support of parents/carers and the wider school community."

As he would be in post until the end of the current session, there would be "a continuity of leadership" amidst the Covid-19 crisis, he stressed.

Mr Gerrie said: "It all goes without saying that the last few months have been unprecedented and not without significant challenges.

"As I will remain as headteacher until the end of the current session in June, there will be a continuity of leadership as we continue to deal with the issues presented by the pandemic.

"I can reassure parents that we will see this pandemic through together."

He added: "I look forward to working with and supporting all students in the second half of this school session."