Dear Parents, Carers and the Llangan Community,

As I sit down to write this, I’m not quite sure where to begin—something that doesn’t happen to me very often! I had hoped to keep this short and simple, but I’m not sure I’ve ever been very good at that… so here goes.

After three and a half truly wonderful years as Headteacher of Llangan Primary School, it is time for me to say goodbye.

And what a privilege it has been.

Llangan is a very special place. From the moment I arrived, I knew there was something unique about this school—and that feeling has only grown stronger with every passing term. It has been an absolute honour to serve as your headteacher and to be part of such a warm, supportive and dedicated community.

I want to say, hand on heart, that I am not leaving because I am unhappy here—quite the opposite. I could quite happily stay at Llangan forever. This decision has not been an easy one, and I leave with a very heavy heart.

When I look back on my time here, I feel an overwhelming sense of pride and joy at everything we have achieved together. Llangan truly is a “small but mighty” school, and that is entirely down to the people within it.

To our governors, thank you for your unwavering support and guidance.

To our parents and carers, and the Parent Forum, thank you for your trust, encouragement and for always getting behind the school.

To our incredible PTA—thank you for going above and beyond, time and time again, to provide opportunities and experiences that enrich the lives of our children.

And to the wider community—your kindness, generosity and care have been humbling.

But most of all, I want to thank our amazing staff team. Quite simply, they are exceptional. Every day, they go above and beyond to make sure our children have the very best experiences, and many of the “crazy ideas” I’ve had over the years have only become reality because of their hard work, commitment and belief. Team Llangan really is something special.

I have created a short video of some of my favourite moments from my time here, which I will be sharing with the children in my final assembly. I won’t lie—it was an emotional one to put together. It reminded me just how many incredible adventures we have shared, and just how lucky I have been to be part of them. More than anything, it has left me with memories I will treasure forever.

To the children—thank you for your energy, your laughter, your curiosity and your kindness. You are the heart of this school, and I know that great things lie ahead for every single one of you. Keep climbing high and climbing higher.

I am genuinely devastated to be leaving, and it still doesn’t quite feel real that I won’t be returning after the Easter holidays.

However, I won’t be a stranger. As many of you know, I live locally, and I will be watching with great pride as Llangan continues to go from strength to strength. Please do say hello if you see me out and about—I would love to hear how you are all getting on.

Thank you, sincerely, for everything you have given me over the past three and a half years. It has meant more than I can put into words.

With very best wishes and heartfelt thanks,

James Griffiths