As a child I went to Alumwell Junior School around the turn of the millenium, and all the memories I have of our headteacher Mr Bentley are of a caring and kind man who invested himself and his heart fully into what he did. I never understood the stereotypical stigma around headmasters that I saw on TV or in books, as our headmaster exuded an atmosphere of peace and safety to all the children at school. 
My fondest memories are those of when he took out the guitar during assembly and led us through choruses of ‘Kumbaya’ amongst other songs, cementing in me my love for music, and becoming one of the vital stepping stones on my journey towards becoming a full-time professional musician today. 
I didn’t know him well personally, but he was a much-loved and memorable teacher who impacted thousands of people’s lives and will be missed.