THE new headteacher of a county school is looking forward to spending half-term re-plumbing his family bathroom.

But Charlie Lupton is no stranger to diversification. Before he started the new term at St Barnabas CE First and Middle School in Drakes Broughton, Mr Lupton spent time teaching in Hereford, Kent and Pershore. He also taught outdoor pursuits at West Malvern Outdoor Centre, including canoeing and climbing.

Until he moved to his new study at Drakes Broughton, Mr Lupton was head teacher at Littleton First School, near Evesham.

He feels his new job is both a "greater and different challenge", partly because St Barnabas is the only combined first and middle school in the county.

"St Barnabas School is a unique combination in this county and there are only a handful in the whole of the country," said the 42-year-old. "It's wonderful to have the chance to teach so many children from the reception class right through to year seven.

"About 30 more children from the surrounding villages, such as Defford and Norton, arrive in year five, so there is quite a close knit community. In all, we have 365 pupils - one for each day of the year."

Mr Lupton said that thanks to the combination of the two schools, the children had a lot of opportunity for responsibility, especially in years four and seven.

The school's friendly yet professional atmosphere and high standards also attracted him.

"I have nothing negative to say because it's a great school, although the building is ripe for modernisation," said Mr Lupton. "Our pupils produce some excellent art work and we hope to go for the special Arts Mark award for excellence in the subject."

Mr Lupton's wife, Sue, is a special needs teacher. The couple, who have three children, live in Malvern.

"My hobbies include squash, painting and DIY, hence my half-term job!" added Mr Lupton, who gained a degree in Zoology from Durham University, before training as a teacher at Exeter University.