A TEACHER has seen her dreams come true as she takes up the role of headteacher at a community primary school.

Rachael McFarlane has been appointed to lead Ireleth St Peter's Primary School after teaching at the school for the past five years.

Mrs McFarlane, born and bred in Dalton , was delighted to take up the position and is excited to start making a real difference.

She said: "I've always wanted to be a teacher. I think it's probably just from seeing teachers when I was at primary school – they just inspired me.

"When I moved here from Newbarns I really got the bug for leadership. I thought I could really make a difference and it's such a lovely school.

Staff at Ireleth St Peter's have always prided themselves on their holistic approach to education by focusing on the social and emotional development of children in addition to their academic learning.

Mrs McFarl

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Mrs McFarlane is determined that the school continues this trend under her leadership.

She said: "I want all children to enjoy their education and their time at school.

"We want to make a difference both academically and emotionally and we work a lot in the community as well.

"Because we're a small school we're like a family."

Ireleth St Peter's has 37 pupils who travel to the school from Ireleth , Askam, Dalton and even Barrow.

Determined to make its mark on the community, the school tries to get involved with a whole host of activities right across the area, something the new headteacher is keen to develop further.

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Staff, pupils, parents and governors are delighted to see one of their own take up the position.

A spokesperson for the board of governors said: "We are very excited for the future of our school under the direction and leadership of Mrs McFarlane.

"Her passion and dedication to Ireleth St Peter 's will ensure our children continue to thrive and the future success of the whole school."

Helen Gleaves , one of the parents at the school, said: "My child loves coming to school everyday and is very happy at Ireleth."