JOHN Dracup, headteacher of Settle C E Primary School from 1975 to 1987, has died.

Born and brought up in Drighlington, Bradford, Mr Dracup wanted to be a primary school teacher from a young age. He studied for his teacher’s certificate at St John’s College, York, from 1952-54.

His first post was at R M Grylls Primary School, Liversedge, where he taught for three years until he married and moved to Menston County Primary School, where he was appointed deputy head.

His first headship was at Kirk Deighton, near Wetherby, before he moved to Settle in September 1975, and remained there until he took early retirement for health reasons in 1987.

Mr Dracup was very proud of the atmosphere maintained in the school during his time there and he fostered a high level of parental and community involvement.

The PTA chairman stated that in Mr Dracup’s time Settle had been a happy school, bustling with activity. Many parents commented that their children came home full of enthusiasm and were sad to leave the school.

Mr Dracup always maintained high standards but believed these were best achieved when children were excited about the work they were doing. He provided ample opportunity for investigation and practical problem-solving, encouraging children to apply their learning to real life situations.

He was a pioneering mathematics teacher and towards the end of his career he delivered a series of lectures to undergraduate students at Ripon College, promoting his thematic approach to mathematics.

The late Canon Eric Ashby, who was a member of the panel at his interview and with whom he worked very closely throughout his time in Settle, wrote to him on his retirement: “Your commitment to the school, to children, staff and parents has been total and one could not ask for more.”

He will be remembered for the spectacular annual pantomimes, which he wrote and directed himself and which involved pupils, parents and staff. At his retirement presentation Mr Dracup said: “I am proud to have been head of this school for so many years and I consider it an honour and a privilege to have worked with such talented and dedicated colleagues, supportive parents and super children.”

His funeral will be held at Nab Wood Crematorium, Bingley, at 11.30am on Wednesday, November 7.