Derbyshire has plenty of well-performing schools, which regularly pass their Ofsted inspections with flying colours and achieve impressive exam results, competing with the best education facilities across the country.
But to reach for the stars, schools need a strong leader at the helm.
We have delved into our archive to have a look back at the cherished headteachers, who inspired generations of pupils across Derbyshire – with some serving for up to four decades.
Have a look at this retro gallery and take a trip down memory lane to your school days.
Can you spot a former schoolmate, or a headteacher that you remember from years gone by?
13. Clowne Heritage School, Clowne
Clowne Heritage School headteacher Don Spencer is pictured with pupils in January 2011. Photo: Rachel Atkins
14. Turnditch Primary School, Turnditch
Pupils say goodbye to Turnditch Primary School headteacher Michael Halls as he retires in 2005. Photo: Lindsay Colbourne
15. Crich Church of England Infant School, Crich
Crich Infants headteacher Jean Stinson retiring after 26 years with pupils back l-r Ben Thompson and Alice Slaney, and front l-r Campbell Stephen, Charlotte Hand, Charlie Travers and Robert Sulley. Photo: LINDSAY COLBOURNE
16. Calow Primary School, Chesterfield
Calow Primary School headteacher Martin Thacker pictured with secretary Sandra Botham and pupils Poppy Howles and Robert Bateman. Photo: Marisa Cashill