Fife Council have appointed a new executive director of education.

Donald Macleod, currently the head of service at Glasgow City Council, will join in August.

He will manage more than 150 schools and nurseries in Fife, as well as a range of support services, including educational psychology, additional support for learning, Active Schools, professional learning and out-of-school care clubs.

Mr Macleod said: "I'm honoured to be entrusted with the responsibility of leading Fife's education services and improving life chances for all.

"I look forward to working with schools, communities, officers and councillors, to build on existing strengths across the Kingdom and help young people and families benefit from all that learning has to offer."

The former teacher had 14 years of work experience with Education Scotland HM Inspectors of Education (HMIE) before he took up a leadership role in local government in 2018.

Cllr Cara Hilton, spokesperson for education, said: “This post attracted some high calibre candidates from across the country and we’ve been through a rigorous selection process.

“Donald’s range of experience across the sector impressed the appointment committee, from teaching himself, to inspecting varied education settings and leading a large service.

"He is passionate about the role learning has to play in positively directing young people’s lives and providing a route out of poverty."

The post had been vacant and was latterly held by Carrie Lindsay, who retired last year.