Lovers’ Lane Primary and Nursery School in Newark welcomes new headteacher

A new headteacher has outlined his vision of “empowering excellence every day” for primary and nursery schools.

James Wood has stepped into the role of headteacher at Lovers’ Lane Primary and Nursery School, on Warburton Street, Newark.

Having previously occupied leadership positions at two schools which achieved ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted ratings, he brings a wealth of experience to the role.

James said that he was “incredibly proud” to join Lovers’ Lane and the school’s vision is simple yet powerful: to empower everyday excellence for all pupils.

“It’s about creating confident, capable learners who feel inspired every day to achieve their very best and developing every child through a carefully designed curriculum that will shape their future and nurture their voices as they grow,” he said.

“Built upon care, high standards and a strong sense of community, our vision of empowering excellence every day will enable us to truly make every day count for all our pupils.”

“This bespoke approach ensures every child is challenged, supported, and inspired in all areas of their learning.

“A key part of our offer is enrichment—bringing learning to life through real-world, hands-on experiences.

“We’ve already begun mapping out an exciting calendar of trips, visits, and immersive opportunities for the next academic year, designed to broaden horizons and ignite curiosity both in and beyond the classroom.”

Pupils from different year groups have described Mr Wood as being ‘smart looking’, ‘kind’, and was making the school a nicer place to be with the new classrooms.

As well as seeing a change in leadership, the school building and environment are undergoing renovations.

Works completed include a redecoration of Early Years Foundation Stage, with new flooring, storage, sinks and fire doors, and with classrooms now have suspended ceilings with acoustic tiles, LED lighting and insulation.

The school has also received funding from Nottinghamshire County Council for the resurfacing and repair of the school’s playground.

Additionally, Lovers’ Lane has also joined The Flying High Partnership, a multi-academy trust ranked in the top four in the country in the latest MAT Performance data.

“Going forward, the next phases of improvements will be focused on making similar improvements in all remaining classrooms throughout the school, so that all children in Lovers’ Lane can benefit from improved learning environments,” James added, “This includes the creation of an outdoor Sensory Space to help meet the needs of all our children.”

The new headteacher said that he is already “seeing positive changes taking place” and is inviting families to the school’s open day on June 30 from 3.45pm to 4.45pm.