Parklands - A school built on love

by Chris Dyson

Written by Chris Dyson, A school built on love is a heartwarming account of Parklands School’s transformative journey towards becoming a safe, loving environment in which all of its learners can thrive. If anything can bind together nearly 400 pupils and 100 school staff in challenging circumstances, it’s love. And love is in plentiful supply at Parklands. The pupils at Parklands Primary School, located on the Seacroft estate in Leeds, often face significant hardship. Children start at the school significantly behind their peers nationally, especially in terms of their language and literacy. Yet the school is famed for outstanding learning – both in terms of Ofsted judgement and, more importantly, in achieving amazing outcomes for its learners. In this inspiring book, head teacher Chris Dyson shares the story of how he has steered the school towards the seemingly impossible educational dream of high achievement, personalised support and complete inclusion. He explains how the school setting can be a place where there is love but also hope and relentless ambition for children, and reflects on the steps that he and his staff have put in place to make this a reality for Parklands’ pupils. Chris delves into how this culture and climate of love drives behaviour and decision-making throughout the school – and, as a result, how this creates a safe, loving environment in which all of its learners can thrive. Chris also provides insights into how the leadership team goes about raising funds for the school, and how they choose to spend it on both curricular and extracurricular projects. And, furthermore, how the school broadens its pupils’ experiences and cultural capital by means of residential trips, in-school productions, and sports and arts provision. An uplifting read for all teachers and school leaders. Chapters

137 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2022

Reviews

[Beverley]

This is an extraordinary story of how schools can be transformed by love. Chris Dyson is a charismatic, passionate leader and this book has given me much food for thought about how to improve my own school.

[Megan Nicolson]

A gorgeous book about a school built on love that is truly inspirational for anyone in education! I have lots of take aways from this.

[Seaside Sparkles]

Loved this book, it not only gives all the feels but shows practical ways to build a very special school full of love and achievement.

[Jenny]

As a fairly new head teacher, this was just what I needed to inspire me for the new term. An easy but great read for anyone involved in educating our children.

[Lisa]

Inspirational and full of ideas. A must read for all in an educational or similar setting