Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things!

I was in Leeds again last week and met some old friends and colleagues who talked passionately about Education Leeds and the incredible culture we created within the organisation. A unique and special culture which won awards and recognition locally, regionally, nationally and internationally.

A unique and special culture based on high expectations, self-esteem, efficacy, trust, openness and honesty. A unique and special culture based on a relentless and uncompromising search for excellence.

Interestingly, everyone I met in Leeds, from colleagues and friends to officers and politicians, talked about people; children and young people, people in their teams, people in schools and people who had contributed on the journey. People like Lou Tice and Ken Robinson. People like Ian Harrison and Parin Bahl. People like Deborah Hibberd, Mike Viner, Rosemary Smith, Ruth Baldwin and Sonia Sharp. And of course Dave Dickinson and Dirk Gilleard, these two great colleagues, who were with me at the end.

Interestingly, I have visited some great schools since I left Education Leeds and wherever I have been I have found the same common factors; all of which are associated with ordinary people doing extraordinary things!