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.; Written by Chris Dyson, Parklands: 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.; What a book! What a school! Having been lucky enough to have tears of joy streaming down my face at hearing the whole school roaring out 'Sweet Caroline' not once, but twice, with all the crowd, me included, swaying and dancing, I can testify that this is a school truly built on love. You'll find more than this in here though, Chris is a magician when it comes to generating cash. 500,000 extra is a lot of money for a primary school with a PAN of 45. There are fund-raising ideas, pedagogy ideas, curriculum ideas, competitions, reindeer and fake snow a plenty and that's only the half-of it. An education book to savour! And finally reading about Jason, another great big happy tear dribbled down my face too, because what Parklands did for Jason is what they would do for any member of their community. A stunning achievement Mr. Dyson, my hat is off to you and your school! Paul Garvey ; The parklands story is an incredible example of the power of great leadership, lots of laughter and (in the very words of the author) big love! For all leaders, not just in education, this is a must read if you're interested in creating transformational change. Chris and team - you are genuine change makers! Drew Povey ; Parklands isn't just a school, it does everything it can to be the beating heart of the community, a heart filled with love. Not the saccharine Hallmark Valentine's Card love, but the deep unconditional love you reserve for family. That's because everyone who is in the Parklands Community is family.Chris invites everyone in to be part of that family. Locking your community outside the school gate builds barriers, getting them through wide open doors and making them feel welcome builds trust, relationships, and a sense of belonging. This book shares how Chris and the staff at Parklands have built all of that and used it as a launch pad for the success of their pupils. Ben Brown ; Having had the privilege of working as SENDCo at Parklands for just over 3 years (2017-2020) before retiring, I am one of the lucky ones who have experienced and contributed to the love that underpins and drives the
