Thursday February 19th 2026
Dunbar Primary School John Muir Campus
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
Recruitment has begun to find a new leader for East Lothian’s largest primary school.
Dunbar Primary School Head Teacher Jacqui Mackinnon will retire in June at the end of this academic session.
Mrs Mackinnon has led the school since 2023 after nearly four decades working across a number of East Lothian schools.
She provided an extended notice period to support a smooth transition and comprehensive handover to the successful candidate.
In a letter to parents and carers she said: “It has been a privilege to serve as the Head Teacher of Dunbar Primary School, and I look forward to handing the school over to my successor. There is so much to celebrate and be proud of, and I am sure they will be honoured to work with such dedicated staff, supportive parents and enthusiastic children.”
Dunbar Primary School has a school roll of just under 1200 children from nursery to primary 7 split over two campuses in the town. The Head Teacher is supported by six Depute Head Teachers, one who has responsibility for The Cove, the school’s specialist provision.
East Lothian Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Children’s and Family Services Councillor Fiona Dugdale said:
“Throughout her career, Mrs MacKinnon has been committed to helping children to thrive and to achieving the best educational outcomes. It is no surprise that she has considered the needs of others when planning her own retirement by offering an extended handover period which will help her successor settle into the role, which I am sure they will appreciate.”
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