Hulme’s new head promoted from within

Craig Mairs, new principal of Hulme Grammar School

CRAIG Mairs had been appointed the new principal of Oldham Hulme Grammar School — where he has been a member of staff since his student teacher days.

The 41 year old is currently deputy principal, responsible for the school’s sixth form, and will take over from Dr Paul Neeson, who retires next September.

Mr Mairs lives in Shaw but was born in Limavady, Northern Ireland. He gained an MA in English literature and history at Edinburgh University before completing a postgraduate certificate in education at Manchester University.

“My main teaching practice was at Hulme,” he explained. “A vacancy came up in the English department while I was there. I started in September, 1996.”.

He explained the school’s attraction: “There is a really special atmosphere. I have been fortunate in being able to progress in my career while working somewhere I have come to love.

“I am absolutely thrilled at the appointment.”

Mr Mair’s daughter Alexandra (7) is a pupil at the school, and his two-year-old son, Samuel, is expected to join the kindergarten in September.