Tributes to school head who had 'huge personality'

A family has paid tribute to a former head teacher, describing him as a man who was "charismatic and generous" with a "huge personality".

Ahmad Khan, who was the former head of Charnwood Primary School, in the Highfields area, died on Monday at the age of 84.

From the mid-70s he taught at Newry Junior School in Leicester, before he moved to Charnwood Primary School in 1988, where he retired.

Suleman Nagdi, a community advocate in the city, said it was an "honour and privilege" to know Mr Khan for almost 50 years, both personally and professionally.

Mr Khan's family said he dedicated his career to education from the age of 18, teaching in Nairobi, Kenya.

In 1998, Mr Khan received an MBE for services to education at the birthday honours.

The grandfather and father-of-two was also the founding member and chairman of the Federation of Muslim Organisations in Leicester.

His daughter Munazza Khan said her father, who was one of 14 siblings, was a "family man and loved his heritage".

"He was fun loving," she said. "Everyone has a funny story to tell about him.

"He loved gardening and was a great cook. His door was always open to anyone.

"His leadership, fairness and energy drove him to make a difference to so many communities.

"People saw him as a father figure, but we were lucky enough to have him as our dad."

Mr Nagdi added Mr Khan's passing represents an "incalculable loss" to the Muslim community.

"His students and all who knew him will experience a deep personal loss," he said.

"Ahmad helped shape young minds as a head teacher. Each student will have a story, and I'm sure they will remember the education he parted with them.

"Beyond his role in education, he was a pillar of the local Muslim community.

"Renowned for his integrity and strong character. His strength will be deeply cherished.

"Ahmad continued to offer invaluable counsel even after his retirement and leaves a legacy behind."

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