Charting New Courses: Reflections from the new Head

One of the great privileges of leading a school is recognising and working to strengthen its role within the wider community. Schools are more than just centres of learning; they are hubs of connection, service and collaboration. Looking in, I see Langley Prep as a school with strong roots and a growing influence, both locally and beyond.

Our school is part of a thriving local network, and we are keen to deepen links with families, businesses and community organisations. Whether through charity initiatives, supporting the forces, partnerships with local schools, or environmental projects, we want our pupils to understand the importance of contributing to something greater than themselves. These experiences help shape compassionate, engaged young people who see their role in the world with a sense of purpose.

Meaningful connections are at the heart of Langley Prep, extending across generations and beyond the school gates. The Bluebell Nursery’s partnership with a local care home is a wonderful example of this, where weekly visits allow our youngest children to develop their language and social skills through conversation, storytelling and singing. At the same time, the residents benefit from the joy, energy, and companionship that these visits bring. Sport is another area where we are deeply engaged beyond the school gates. Year 8 Langley Prep pupils have played an active role in Norfolk Quick Cricket Tournaments and School Sports Partnership swimming galas, taking on leadership responsibilities as officials. In the past two terms alone, more than 2,000 primary school pupils have visited our campus to take part in events such as cross-country and netball competitions. That’s more than 2,000 young people connecting with us. At Langley, we promise our children opportunity and excellence, and it is our responsibility to make this available to as many young people as possible. Our future leaders are among us, and I cannot wait to get to know them.

Regionally, Langley Prep is fortunate to be situated in Norfolk, an area rich with history, culture and opportunity. It is vital we continue to embrace the best of what this county offers, fostering strong links with arts organisations, sports teams and local industries. Our outdoor learning programme, which makes the most of our beautiful setting, will continue to be a key way we connect with our environment and community.

Beyond Norfolk, our reach extends into the wider educational landscape. Schools have a responsibility to contribute to national conversations about learning and child development. Whether through collaboration with other schools, engagement with national initiatives, or embracing innovative approaches to education, we will ensure Langley Prep is a school that both leads and learns from others.

Our place in the community is not just about where we are, but how we engage, support and inspire those around us. I look forward to strengthening these ties and ensuring that Langley Prep continues to play a positive and active role in the world beyond our school.