Ed Wood

Ed Wood brings to his role as Head of School a deep understanding of Langley Prep, extensive leadership experience and a commitment to helping children thrive.

Ed’s relationship with the school began when he was a pupil. He remembers his own time at Langley with great fondness, from exploring the woods to discovering a wide range of subjects and sports.

After completing his degree, Ed returned to the school (then Taverham Hal), as a teacher of Mathematics and Sport. He has since experienced Langley not only as a pupil and teacher, but also as a parent, with both of his children progressing from Nursery through to Year 8 before joining Langley Senior School.

His path into teaching began during a gap year spent working in a school. Opportunities to coach sport, accompany school trips and work within a boarding environment gave him an early appreciation of the breadth of school life and the positive influence a teacher can have on children and their families.

Ed has been a member of the Prep School’s Senior Management Team for almost a decade, including five years as Senior Deputy Head.

During this time, he has taken responsibility for key areas of school life, including timetabling, departmental leadership, staff development and the systems and procedures that support the smooth running of the school. He has also led major projects and events, ranging from Speech Day and carol services to preparations for school inspections.

Ed’s leadership philosophy is rooted in inclusion, collaboration and clear communication. He believes that lasting improvements are achieved by drawing upon the knowledge and experience of colleagues across the school, recognising the vital role all staff play in shaping school development.

His analytical and operational experience has supported the introduction of several important initiatives at Langley Prep. These include CPOMS, which provides a central and robust system for recording and managing safeguarding concerns, and a revised behaviour policy developed in collaboration with staff and pupils.

Ed describes his vision for Langley Prep as one of evolution rather than revolution. Building upon the work already taking place across Langley, his aim is to create a community that inspires pride in every pupil, parent and member of staff.

He is committed to ensuring that every child finds their place at Langley Prep. This means offering a broad, engaging and relevant curriculum, and providing pupils with the opportunities to discover their interests, develop their talents and prepare for an ever-changing world.

Pastoral care will remain central to this vision. Drawing upon his experience as a pastoral leader, Ed understands the challenges facing young people and the importance of investing time, expertise and resources in their wellbeing.

Core to Ed’s approach is a belief that every child is entitled to an exceptional education and an environment in which they can feel known, supported and challenged, every step of the way.