Luton education boss Geoff Headley is retiring after eight years in the children and learning department, latterly as head of support, challenge and intervention.
He said: “I’m leaving with a heavy heart – I’ve enjoyed the job. It’s been fantastic.”
Mr Headley, 66, was instrumental in developing the school improvement service which saw advisors help raise standards in particular areas.
His wife Christine Lenihan, headteacher at Lea Manor, is retiring at the same time.
The father of three, who has also worked in community education at Wormwood Scrubs, said: “Having schools in special measures is now a rare event.
“I put it down to our robust, respectful and professional relationship as well as strong partnerships between the schools themselves.
“We implemented a joint endeavour, a very strong programme for school-to-school support. If one school is struggling, we find another to help it up. Heads work alongside, focusing on the outcome for the children.”
He said one of the biggest challenges was dealing with youngsters whose first language was not English, and those with behaviour problems.
He said: “Luton is an inclusive authority. Our philosophy is we don’t exclude.
“If a challenging child is excluded, he will grow into a more challenging adult. So if they’re in danger of being excluded, they will get extra support.
“Our aim is for that child to remain in education.”
Mr Headley is taking up a national mentoring role.