A statement to the community from the Governing Body

4 September 2026

A Statement from the Governing Body

Dear parents, carers and members of the Lemington Riverside Community,

Following the recent announcement that Mr Heeley will be leaving Lemington Riverside Primary School at October half term to take up a new role supporting schools more widely across Newcastle, we wanted to share a few words on behalf of the Governing Body.

We are, of course, incredibly pleased for Craig as he takes this exciting next step in his career. At the same time, there is inevitably great sadness that his time as Headteacher of Lemington Riverside is drawing to a close.

Craig has been an exemplary Headteacher and it has been a privilege for us, as governors, to work alongside him and to share in the considerable growth and development of Lemington Riverside during his headship.

Under Craig’s leadership, Lemington Riverside has developed into the happy, confident, inclusive and successful school that we see today, with a strong and important place at the heart of the Lemington community. His commitment to the school and, above all, to its children has always been at the centre of his leadership.

One of Craig’s greatest strengths has been the remarkable relationship he has built with our children. He knows them as individuals, understands the community they come from and has always wanted the very best for every one of them. This is evident whenever you spend time in the school and is something that will undoubtedly be remembered by children and families for many years to come.

Craig also leaves behind a strong, professional and inclusive staff team at all levels of the school. This is an important part of his legacy and means that Lemington Riverside is in very good hands as we enter the next chapter in the school’s journey.

The Governing Body is working carefully to put appropriate interim leadership arrangements in place and to begin the process of appointing Craig’s successor. We recognise the importance of getting this appointment right and will keep parents and carers informed as this work progresses.

Craig will undoubtedly be a hard act to follow. We are enormously grateful for everything he has given to Lemington Riverside and its community, and we wish him every success and happiness as he takes on this new and exciting challenge.

There will be an opportunity before October half term for us to properly recognise and celebrate Craig’s contribution to the school. For now, we simply want to place on record our sincere thanks for his outstanding service and leadership of Lemington Riverside Primary School.

Barbara Moorhead
Chair of Governors

Marcus Rowe
Vice Chair of Governors

On behalf of the Governing Body of Lemington Riverside Primary School