Wells Hall welcomes new leadership team with bold vision for renewal

The new headteacher at a Great Cornard primary school has spoken of his pride after being appointed in the role.

Ben Jeffery has become the new headteacher of Wells Hall Primary School following more than 20 years in education and having held headship roles in Glemsford and Bury St Edmunds and supporting other schools within Unity Schools Partnership.

Mr Jeffery said: “I feel incredibly proud and privileged to have joined Wells Hall Primary School as headteacher. 

“From the moment I stepped through the gates, I could sense the warmth, resilience, and potential that lives here – in the children, the staff and the wider community.  

“You can see the school has a strong heart by the way pupils greet each other, the care staff show in every interaction and the pride families take in their children’s learning. 

“My role now is to build on those foundations and to set out a clear ambitious vision for Wells Hall – to nurture a culture where every child feels safe, inspired and challenged to be their very best.”

Joining Mr Jeffery is the newly-appointed chair of governors, Jonathon Holyhead, a local parent and experienced governance professional with a background in law, education policy, and strategic leadership.

Mr Holyhead said: “As governors, we are here to support, to ask thoughtful questions and to help the school grow with integrity.

“We are laying foundations not just for better outcomes, but for deeper trust, stronger relationships, and a school culture that reflects the best of Great Cornard.”

As part of the new leadership, the school is planning to work closer with the local community – with coffee mornings, parent forums, story telling sessions and local partnerships all on the horizon.

Mr Jeffery added: “At the centre of our school are three values we live by – respect, responsibility and resilience. 

“These aren’t just words – they’re the qualities we want our children to carry into the world.

“We teach them to treat others with kindness, to take ownership of their actions and to keep going when things get tough.

“These values shape how we learn, how we play and how we grow together.”