Mr McPartlin praises facilities at his new school

David McPartlin, who officially took up his duties at the Northfleet Avenue school after the Easter break, says he was stunned by the amenities there when he went for the job interview.

He said: “I have taught in some very good schools but I have never seen anything quite like Flakefleet. The IT facilities and the way they are used are world class. We have people visiting the school just to see how things are done here. Every Key Stage 2 pupil has an iPad and the work they do is quite exceptional. My predecessor Mike Barnes has done a wonderful job here and I have joined a school which is in a good place.”

Mr McPartlin, who is 37 and originally hails from Hartlepool in County Durham, came to the school after a five year stint at head of St Peter’s Primary School in Heysham.

He said: “I have been blown away by the children and staff and the friendly atmosphere.

“This is a vibrant place. We even have our own radio station, as well as things like a dance studio and our own school catering facility for the pupils.”

Flakefleet is still feeling the benefits of the Primary Capital Fund programme of 2011 which saw a massive £85m investment in the town’s seven primary schools. Flakefleet was radically re-built.

Mr MacPartlin added: “The important thing is the all round education of the children and a safe and supportive environment, where they are happy and enjoy learning.”