The new diocesan director of education for Southwell and Nottingham, Nigel Frith, pictured second right, went to St Peter’s Church of England Primary Academy, Mansfield, on his mission to visit all church schools and academies in his jurisdiction.

He was greeted by Christine Bacon, chair of governors; headteacher James Marshall; and the Rev Caroline Phillips, governor and vicar of St Peter’s Church Mansfield.

He toured the school, meeting staff and pupils.

Afterwards Nigel, who was formerly principal of Drumragh Integrated College in Omagh, Northern Ireland, said: “I was inspired by all I saw during my visit to St Peter’s CofE Primary Academy.

“This remarkable school is an oasis in the heart of its community, reaching out to parents and caring for its pupils.

“The school’s vision includes core beliefs that ‘our pupils deserve the best’, every child will receive an education that opens doors for them, and every child is loved.”