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Mellissa Dzinzi

Heartbreak as Leeds headteacher who transformed school with 'quirky' system to leave

A much-respected headteacher who helped transform an “inadequate” Leeds school with “love”, has announced he is leaving his role.

Chris Dyson became head of Parklands Primary School, in Seacroft, in September 2014. He will now be moving for a “new challenge” in Birmingham.

When he became head of the school, it was rated inadequate by the local authority, and by 2017, it was rated “outstanding” by OFSTED after the school's “ strict regime went out of the window ”.

Read more: DWP £50 cold weather payments and all the Leeds postcodes that will get it

Mr Dyson did this by banning shouting at the school for both students and staff and by creating a new behaviour system.

The school now uses a football inspired system with an orange and red card system that they use to punish pupils he previously wrote for TES Magazine .

News of his departure from his school has seen him praised for his “incredible contribution” following his work there the last nine years with some people adding that he has left an “incredible legacy” at the school.

Paying tribute to the teacher, Richard Burgon MP said on Friday (December 16): “Today I popped in to @ParklandsLeeds on Headteacher @chrisdysonHT’s last day to thank him for his incredible contribution over the last 9 years.

“Mr. Dyson has inspired, changed lives and made a difference.

“Was touched to be given a copy of his book with a lovely inscription.”

He added: “Good luck to Mr Dyson as he takes up new challenges in Birmingham after achieving so much with his fantastic staff over the last 9 years and all best wishes to Acting Head Mrs Darley as she takes over.”

Other social media also shared their well wishes to the headteacher.

Saraallkins said: “Oh Mr Dyson! The best headteacher of the best school in the world. You really ‘got’ the youth theatre, you got exactly what I was trying to do, you made it all work. Thank you. So sad that circumstances dictated that I never got back to see you all again. Love to you and yours.”

LanguageAngels_ said: “Have an amazing last day. You have changed lives and we have made great memories! We wish you all the very best in your new role.”

drewpovey said: “What a leader and what a legacy! Be proud of what you’ve achieved my friend.”

AtomForSchools said: “What an incredible legacy @chrisdysonHT will leave behind at @ParklandsLeeds! Hope you have a wonderful last day and wish you all the best of luck for all your future endeavours.”

VandVLearning said: “What tributes to someone who shows the impact of love on the lives of others. Never underestimate the power of love to get remarkable results.”

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