June 30, 20257 min readLichfield Acting Head of School who has ”transformed the fabric” of local school nominated for National Teacher of the Year Competition
From library glow-ups to tea-party raffles, Mr. Chapman has done more than step into leadership — he’s transformed it. Nominated for the Teacher of the Year by a student and her mum, he’s being recognised for the energy, empathy, and heart he brings to every part of school life.
Mr. James Chapman, who is currently Acting Head of School at Scotch Orchard Primary School, has been nominated by one of his students, Paige Christie-Joy, and her mum, Robyn Christie.
Since taking on the new role last year, Mum Robyn says that Mr. Chapman has transformed the school, in particular fostering a love of reading within the children.
After receiving feedback from parents, Mr Chapman implemented different resources and strategies to promote the love of reading.
Since then, Mr. Chapman has been on a mission to raise the importance and value of reading within the children. The transformation of the school library, which was a whole-school effort, was his first priority.
“It was just gorgeous. It just shows how invested he is in the school.” Robyn said.
Alongside this, Mr. Chapman has incorporated a reading corner in every classroom.
“He ran a competition amongst the teachers to see who could design the best reading corner. They were so excited they couldn’t keep it from the children.” Said Robyn.
Mr. Chapman has also found a sweet way to encourage the kids to read.
Robyn said: “He wanted to motivate children read. If they read three times in a week, they are entered into a raffle to win a chance to have afternoon tea with him on a Friday.”
Robyn shared how Mr. Chapman “really listens to parents and their voice; he really cares.
“One of my friends has a foster daughter, who is a looked-after child. Since becoming Acting Head of School, he has opened the door to so many different events. Things like dance lessons have really improved the child’s confidence.”
She also detailed how Mr. Chapman has been working to support children with additional needs.
“Another friend’s child is in reception who was recently diagnosed with autism. The child was frustrated as his speech was delayed and he couldn’t communicate. They created a temporary tailored provision to support his speech and language development, and his ability to communicate has massively improved! He has genuinely been effective with this little boy's school life and home life.
Mr Chapman is continuing to work with the Local Authority to ensure children with additional needs receive additional funding that will enable them to thrive in school.
“The enthusiasm he has brought has completely changed how parents communicate with the school. Everyone is happier.” Said Robyn.
From championing inclusion to cheering on young readers, Mr. Chapman’s impact reaches every corner of the classroom — and beyond. That’s what makes him a standout Teacher of the Year 2025 finalist.
What happens next?
The Teacher of the Year 2025 winner will be announced on 4 July, live on Fun Kids Breakfast with George.
We’ll be sharing each nominee’s story across our social channels in the run-up to the big reveal.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to keep up with the countdown.
Want to see who else made the shortlist? Meet all the amazing finalists here.
And if you’ve got a teacher to thank before term ends, you can still create a Collection Pot today, the easy way to chip in together.
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