Educational administration and organization Books

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Book SynopsisToday’s students bring with them to the classroom a wide variety of understandings and ways of knowing. Sharing this richness of understanding, as well as students’ unique ways of looking at challenges, solving problems, and interpreting the world adds an incredible depth and meaning to all types of classroom learning. This thoughtful guide offers authentic, meaningful and purposeful activities that will lead students to share their thinking, and to support and mentor each other emotionally, socially, and academically. It explores numerous ways to create opportunities for shared learning, mentoring partnerships, and expanding student horizons.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Introduction 1. It Always Begins with a Question… 2. Sharing Our Voices 3. Realities of the Classroom 4. Leaders in Learning 5. Reimagining Learning for the 21st Century Conclusion References Index

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Book SynopsisThis book provides information on how to use focus-group research to gain insight and allow input from various individuals or groups that may often be silenced during any decision-making process. A history of focus-group research is presented, along with various social and political structures within a school organization that inadvertently silence individuals and groups. Practical knowledge is provided for administrators in a step-by-step process for conducting focus-group research in any school organization—including, procedures for the group moderator, developing an effective focus-group, elements of questions that will generate discussion, keeping the group on task, eliminating personal bias, and bringing the group to closure. A focus-group design is also presented with essential information on developing the questions, population and sample, data collection, data investigation, methodology and concerns about focus-group research.Trade ReviewLatess's very readable book illustrates how focus groups can be used effectively in school improvement; he describes step by step procedures that would enable a school leader to use focus groups to gather and analyze qualitative data that would be useful for action planning…Focus-Group Research for School Improvement provides current and prospective school leaders with a "handbook" for planning and implementing focus-group procedures to ensure that the voices of stakeholders are heard. By using the focus group processes advocated by Latess, school leaders can facilitate the much needed engagement of stakeholders in school improvement and thereby increase the likelihood of more effective school improvement initiatives. -- Dr. Richard C. Wallace, Jr., superintendent emeritus, Pittsburgh Public Schools and clinical professor, University of PittsburghThe ability to collect opinions from the school community is critical to lead an effective educational program. Dr. Latess has provided a much needed practical guide that outlines a powerful tool to communicate with people in an unobtrusive way while discovering their beliefs and attitudes. -- Eric Stennett, Ed.D., Principal, Shaler Area Middle School and adjunct professor, Education Department, Point Park University (PA)Joseph Latess' refreshing and practical perspective on school improvement argues powerfully for sharing both knowledge and accountability throughout educational communities to help all students reach acceptable levels of academic performance. He explains and illustrates how administrators can use focus groups to obtain input from educational stakeholders who are often excluded from traditional decision-making processes. -- Dr. Robert J. Beebe, professor and chair, Educational Administration, Beeghly College of Education, Youngstown State University (OH)In the current data-driven climate of education, Latess offers a fresh and qualitative idea to break through barriers which have silence the public. The research addresses all of the pertinent relationships of the school enterprise: school boards, community, administrators, teachers, staff, parents, and children…Latess' work beckons for the high ideals necessary for school improvement and success: communication, responsibility, accountability, and community. The focus-group design provides a vehicle to reach those ideals. -- Dr. Darwin W. Huey, professor and director, graduate program in the Department of Education, Westminster College (PA)Table of ContentsChapter 1 Schools as Organizations Chapter 2 A Brief History of Focus-Group Research Chapter 3 Silenced Voices Chapter 4 Causes for Silence Chapter 5 Efforts to Hear the Voices Chapter 6 The Focus-Group Process: An Ideal Method for Breaking the Silence Chapter 7 Focus-Group Design Chapter 8 Procedures for Conducting Focus-Group Chapter 9 Social Constructions and Context Underlying the Focus-Group Process Chapter 10 Data Presentation and Action-Plan Development Chapter 11 Application of the Process:The Focus-group Process Tool Chapter 12 Other Tools of the Trade Chapter 13 Reflections

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Book SynopsisThrough more than thirty projects for major colleges and universities across the country and in China, Designs for Learning presents the principles and practices behind academic buildings, libraries, graduate centers, and academic facilities that sensitively integrate into the fabric of each campus. In its forty years, Robert A.M. Stern Architects has honed a contemporary practice that is in close dialogue with the past, making it one of the most admired architectural firms today. Even in its growing global reach and expanding practice areas, the firm maintains a close attention to form, context, local culture, and received tradition, as well as to the demands and needs of the building users. These principles have served the firm particularly well on campuses, where architectural styles and building traditions are often well established. Robert A.M. Stern Architects has created classroom buildings, student centers, athletic facilities, and libraries that respect and expand those traditions. In each case, the firm demonstrates a deep understanding of the American college campus, with its roots in Thomas Jefferson's design for the University of Virginia. In their buildings, "the present, interacting with memories of the past, can create something that can be interesting in the future." Each campus in Designs for Learning is described in detail, with historic photographs and campus plans illustrating its development. Projects by Robert A. M. Stern are placed in their context, providing a complete view of these distinguished places of learning.Trade Review"Despite its title, this monograph is about more than just designing buildings. Rather, the volume is a master class on creating entire environments for learning; it's as much about a special type of urban planning for educational communities as it is about creating individual structures.... Its pages are filled with handsome full-color images of each project - but it's not just a compilation of "beauty shots." Multiple views are provided of every building - both interior and exterior - so the reader can comprehend the character of each structure. To add to project understanding, photography is supplemented by campus ground plans plus floor plans of each building that was added." - Traditional Building

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Book SynopsisInspired by the Sundance award-winning documentary, leading educational reformers explore how to fix our broken public school system

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Book SynopsisThe position of presidential assistant is relatively new in the world of higher education and can still be a very hard-to-define occupation. In Other Duties as Assigned, veteran presidential assistants from all types of institutions describe the varied duties and responsibilities that they hold. The chapters span analyses of career paths, of gender, and of personal characteristics, as well as practical issues such as writing speeches, handling complaints, serving as the board secretary, and raising funds. The contributors have based their writing both on their experiences and on data from a national survey of the profession. This book is a seminal body of work that gives a comprehensive understanding of the many dimensions of presidential assistants, as well as providing practical advice about several key features of the role. As such, Other Duties as Assigned serves as a reference to existing presidential assistants as well as a guide to presidents contemplating the creation of such a position.Trade ReviewThis collection of observations on presidential assistants in higher education is long overdue. It will serve as an excellent orientation for those who are new to the role and as an affirmation of the valuable contribution of seasoned professionals. -- Pamela TransueFor some years now, those interested in the presidential assistant's role have been starved for good information on how to be effective in that role. This collected set of papers fills this gap in the literature. As a former presidential assistant and now president, I believe this book provides important insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with this key but little understood role in higher education. -- Joseph Tim Gilmour, president, Wilkes UniversityThere is no one a university president talks to more regularly or depends on more consistently than his or her closest assistant. This book, drawing on the experiences and insights of people who have filled this role, demonstrates its complexity and its importance. An effective chief assistant to a president can anticipate, intercept, and solve problems before they reach a critical stage. He or she can help a president balance priorities and manage time, greatly increasing the likelihood of presidential success. Reading this book can help both presidents and their chief assistants define the terms of an effective relationship. -- Robert Berdahl, president, Association of American UniversitiesTable of ContentsChapter 1 Foreword Chapter 2 From Whence They Came: Career Paths to the Presidential Assistant Position Chapter 3 The Role of Gender in the Profession of Presidential Assistant Chapter 4 Qualities of a Presidential Assistant Chapter 5 Managing the President's Office Chapter 6 Managing the Life of the President Chapter 7 Presidential Assistants and Institutional Advancement Chapter 8 Executive Speechwriting and Other Communications Chapter 9 Once Upon a Motion: A Board Secretary's Tale Chapter 10 The Nasty Stuff in a PAs Life: Handling Complaints Chapter 11 Presidential Assistants as Senior Administrators Chapter 12 A Career as a Presidential Assistant Chapter 13 What Do Presidential Assistants Do Next? Chapter 14 Juggling Jell-o: Other Duties as Assigned Chapter 15 Conclusion and Afterword

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Book SynopsisThe Law of Special Education and Non-Public Schools provides an informed explanation of Section 504, the IDEA, their regulations, and the cases that they have generated. Even though, the authors offer educators information on the rights of children in non-public schools, this book is not a how-to manual. It is designed to help make educators and parents aware of the requirements governing the laws that impact the rights of children with disabilities in order to implement both Section 504 and the IDED. In light of the detail that the book provides, it serves as a current and concise desk reference for educators ranging from building or district level administrators to classroom teachers to resource specialists in special education and related fields.Trade ReviewThis book is a clear and concise treatment of the laws regarding special education in non-public schools. This should be a part of every non-public school administrator's library. The final chapter of the book deals with some very concrete and practical advice for non-public administrators. This chapter puts the laws into perspective in a clear and practical manner. For the non-public and religious schools who often grapple with trying to offer special education this book is a good guide to help administrators deal with the complex issues and laws. This truly is a must-read for those who want to reach out to families and students who come looking for hope. -- Reverend Dennis P. Hartigan, president, Central Catholic High School, OhioFinally there is a book for non-public school administrators and parents that explains four important laws and their implications for their children. The Section 504, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), and the NCLB (No Child Left Behind) are explained in one chapter. IDEA and its implementation or non-implementation in a non-public school is explored in a specific chapter so that all parties can understand it. The concluding chapter is worth the purchase price of the book as it gives practical considerations for administrators and parents of religiously affiliated nonpublic schools or nonsectarian nonpublic schools on how to work with public school administrators to provide a quality education forthe children in the nonpublic school.. -- Robert J. Safransky, retired school administrator with 19 years as building administrator and 10 years as central office administrator for Pinellas CFinally there is a book for non-public school administrators and parents that explains four important laws and their implications for their children. The Section 504, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), and the NCLB (No Child Left Behind) are explained in one chapter. IDEA and its implementation or non-implementation in a non-public school is explored in a specific chapter so that all parties can understand it. The concluding chapter is worth the purchase price of the book as it gives practical considerations for administrators and parents of religiously affiliated nonpublic schools or nonsectarian nonpublic schools on how to work with public school administrators to provide a quality education for the children in the nonpublic school. -- Robert J. Safransky, retired school administrator with 19 years as building administrator and 10 years as central office administrator for Pinellas CTable of ContentsChapter 1 Introduction and Overview Chapter 2 Private Schools and the American Legal System Chapter 3 Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and Students with Disabilities in Non-Public Schools Chapter 4 Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Chapter 5 The IDEA and Non-Public Schools Chapter 6 Recommendations for Administrators in Non-Public Schools

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Book SynopsisJohn R. Shoup and Susan Clark Studer explore the rules and patterns that govern complex systems that, when properly understood and applied, result in more effective leadership than what is offered from traditional leadership models. Their book is designed to equip leaders with the knowledge and skills to operate successfully in complex environments at both the micro (organizational) and macro (policy) level. Leveraging Chaos offers a dynamic interpretation of educational history and reform that will equip policy makers to implement a more balanced management of the educational pendulum.Trade ReviewShoup and Studer detail the seven features of complex adaptive systems in a manner which serves to illuminate and clarify these systems for the reader. Complexity theory is then applied to a history of education, providing useful insights and practices supporting dynamic educational leadership and policy planning. -- Susan Rainey, Ed.D., Superintendent, retired. Riverside Unified School District, California (1998-2008) and Charter Oak Unified School District, CaliTable of ContentsChapter 1 Complexity Simplified Chapter 2 Complexity at Work in the American Educational System Chapter 3 Leveraging Complexity at the Policy Level Chapter 4 Leveraging Complexity at the Organizational Level

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Book SynopsisExploring America in the 1980s: Living in the Material World is an interdisciplinary humanities unit that looks at literature, art, and music of the 1980s to provide an understanding of how those living through the decade experienced and felt about the many social changes taking place around them. Through the lens of identity, it explores why these changes occurred and lends an ear to the voices of the groups that clamored for them. Cultural icons like Madonna and Bill Cosby are examined alongside larger issues such as the end of the Cold War and a changing economic and political identity. The unit uses field-tested instructional strategies for language arts and social studies from The College of William and Mary, as well as new strategies, and it includes graphic organizers and other learning tools. It can be used to complement a social studies or language arts curriculum or as standalone material in a gifted program.Grades 6-8

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Book SynopsisExploring America in the 1990s: New Horizons is an interdisciplinary humanities unit that looks at literature, art, and music of the 1990s to provide an understanding of how those living through the decade experienced and felt about the world around them. Through the lens of identity, it explores life in America and the myriad groups that coexisted in harmony and, often, with friction. Cultural movements like grunge and Generation X will be examined alongside larger issues such as rising racial tensions following the O.J. Simpson trial and Rodney King riots, the conflict between progress and morality as scientific advances in cloning and the Internet changed the U.S., and the growing debate over previously marginalized identities and gay rights following Don''t Ask, Don''t Tell and DOMA. The unit uses field-tested instructional strategies for language arts and social studies from The College of William and Mary, as well as new strategies, and it includes graphic organizers and o

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Book SynopsisCanadian universities have an ongoing history of colonialism and racism in this white-settler society. Racialized students (Indigenous, Black and students of colour), who would once have been forbidden from academic spaces and who still feel out of place, must navigate these repressive structures in their educational journeys. Through the genres of essay, art, poetry and photography, this book examines the experiences of and effects on racialized students in the Canadian academy, while exposing academia's lack of capacity to promote students' academic well-being. The book emphasizes the crucial connections that racialized students forge, which transform an otherwise hostile environment into a space of intellectual collaboration, community building and transnational kinship relations. Meticulously curated by Dr. Benita Bunjun, this book is a living example of mentorship, reciprocity and resilience.

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Book SynopsisIn this accessible and informative step-by-step guide, early years consultant Debbie Garvey provides leaders and managers with best practice tips and advice for developing their performance management skills in early years settings.Drawing on current research and the author's wealth of experience in the field, each chapter sets out effective performance management techniques that leaders can apply to their workplaces, on topics such as staff development, recruitment, appraisals, conflict management, feedback and evaluation, mentoring and coaching and health and wellbeing. Grounded in an understanding of neuroscience and brain development, this practical book provides advice on how to ensure a safe and motivational environment for both children and staff to develop, whatever their needs.Designed to support new and existing managers, the book includes reflective exercises, key theories and case studies to enable leaders to develop a style suited to their team and setting, ensuring children are given the best possible support during their first and most crucial development stage.Trade ReviewIn this highly reflective, practical and personal guide, Debbie reminds us of what it means to be human - physiologically and emotionally - and makes a compelling case for early years management focused on empathy, support, dialogue and encouragement. An essential read for those seeking the best performance from their team. -- David Wright, Early Years Director, Paint Pots Nurseries, SouthamptonWith this book, Debbie proves once again that she is the authority on how to lead a team to outstanding performance in all areas of the demanding and professional work of early childhood care and education. In an era where professional advice and training has reduced from the traditional sources, managers and leaders will find this guide particularly useful. As a 'go to' specialist, Debbie supports the leader through the challenging matters of performance management and how this one area can benefit the employee, employer and child. The reader will learn how the holistic approach to supporting each team member will provide a respectful, positive environment where anything less is intolerable. As an owner of children's nurseries, I particularly appreciate how Debbie Garvey makes her advice relevant as well as practical to the demands of this field of work in the now. -- Helen Gration, Founder, Yorkshire Montessori NurseryWhat an excellent and informative book Debbie Garvey has produced. It will be a constant source of reference and inspiration for both those new to management and those with a little more experience in the role. This book provides wonderful CPD for the reader and offers them a thorough approach to supporting staff in the continuing development of their skill base whilst strengthening their own abilities. I totally agree with her reasoning that whilst we respect, support and celebrate the individualism of our children our staff are sometimes sadly overlooked. Debbie's inclusion of the Reflective Practice pieces and scenarios really do help the reader to formulate appropriate plans for best practice with which to support our much valued workforce, central to any good nursery. All chapters are set out in a logical and easy to read format and through its application I believe management will have the skills to support staff so they can become the highly skilled and passionate carers they really want to be. There are many excellent topics raised in the book but I was pleased to note the reference to staff stress within the workplace and the inclusion of well-being and mindfulness as a means of easing their load and promoting the importance of the caring employer. -- Helen Connelly, Area Manager & Montessori Teacher, Yorkshire Montessori NurseryI was delighted when asked to review Debbie Garvey's book, particularly since I had been invited to write the introduction to her first book - Leadership for Quality in Early Years and Playwork. This latest book is a fascinating guide for setting leaders and challenges them to reflect, sometimes deeply, on their approach to performance management. It takes readers on a journey of discovery, exploring the 'hows' and 'whys' of performance management. It starts with an account of the neuroscience of behaviour and leads to a very useful selection of tools and techniques for leaders to use. Debbie's style is fascinating. Despite her claims not to be an academic, the work is well supported by research. What makes it so readable, however, are the very personal anecdotes which give us, as readers, the chance to engage in her world - a world which is well informed, insightful and illustrates her own dilemmas and how they are being resolved. I heartily recommend this book to all setting leaders, as well as others who are interested in leadership in the early years sector, or indeed in a fascinating narrative. -- Jonathan Wainwright, Principal Lecturer, Department of Education Childhood and Inclusion, Sheffield Hallam UniversityTable of ContentsList of Tables and Figures. About the Author. Preface. Acknowledgements. Introduction. 1. Brain Development Neuroscience & Staff Development. 2. The Role of Adult Learning in Performance Management. 3. Using Performance Management Techniques. 4. Supporting Staff Development. 5. Using Feedback and Evaluation. 6. Conflict Management. 7. Continuing Personal Development and Lifelong Learning. Endnote: Reflecting on Performance Management. Bibliography. Index.

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Book SynopsisDrawing on the work of innovative educators, this edited volume shows how adopting a solutions focused approach can offer new constructive ways forward for special education. Diverse international contributors from both the world of special education and solutions focused thinking, offer ways to rethink special education and to focus on what can be done rather than what can't. Each chapter offers insights into how solutions focused thinking can reframe special education and the tangible results for children, families and schools.Chapters on teaching and learning, behaviour support, human resources, school leadership and family and community show how a solutions focused approach can be transformative for all aspects of special and inclusive education.Trade ReviewThis book provides a useful precis of some ways to employ the insights from solution-focused brief therapy within the context of special education. It draws on methods applied in several different countries and applied by well-known practitioners in the field. The contents are clearly presented and easy to follow. The emphasis on SF coaching is especially valuable for the UK at this time. I would recommend a copy of this book to every team working with those with special needs. -- Dr Alasdair J Macdonald, Consultant Psychiatrist and Family Therapist (retired)This book is a much needed resource to support educators to move beyond the traditional special education model and consider 'practice-based evidence' to support future policy and practice. The chapters present a unique blend of research and stories from the field that will support new ways of thinking for teachers and school principals working in special and mainstream schools. -- Suzanne Carrington, Professor and Associate Dean (Research) in the Faculty of Education, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), AustraliaTable of ContentsPreface. Introduction. 1. SFSE System Philosophy and Practices for a System that Works. 2. Solutions Focused Special Education Leadership. 3. Diagnoses or Solutions - Different Pathways for Supporting Students with Diverse Learning Needs. 4. Solutions Focused Special Education Human Resources. 5. Solutions Focused Special Education Teaching and Learning Process. 6. Solutions Focused Special Education Behaviour Support. 7. Solutions Focused Partnerships with Family and Community. 8. Conclusion.

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Book SynopsisThis book is designed to help you navigate the challenges and joys of building and maintaining a healthy restorative ecosystem in your school, while providing concrete tools and real-world stories to guide you through the process.Traditional methods of discipline are commonly found to be ineffective, and this book shows how restorative justice can benefit schools in a huge variety of ways, such as decreasing the need for suspensions, increasing academic outcomes, and improving the health of your whole school community.Written by the founder and the education director of the National Center for Restorative Justice, each and every chapter is packed with expertise on everything from carrying out the stages of a restorative circle to understanding the importance of conflict. The authors pull no punches in showing that this work is not always easy, but their passion for restorative justice shines out of every page, demonstrating just how valuable this approach can be in bringing the absolute best out of your students and school.Trade ReviewBradford and LeSal have written a solid text that transcends the usual approaches to this work. This book is rich in the "why" balanced with the skills and practices to match. The insights in this book can really jolt our thinking from seeing restorative justice as some gimmick or educational fad to a solid way to transform school culture. The authors' use of narratives and real world stories keep this work trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and deeply personal. This is definitely a text to return to over and over again. -- Joe Brummer, Consultant, Trainer, and author of 'Building a Trauma-Informed Restorative School'I have long been an appreciator of the National Center for Restorative Justice, so it should come as no surprise that I'm also a fan of this important resource from Nicholas and David. The act of restorative practice is, by design, one of inclusion, and - to its immense credit - this book walks the walk, in ways that everyone can understand, by helping schools adopt new mindsets and restorative justice practices in their own communities. -- Carlos Moreno, Executive Director, Big Picture Learning

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Book SynopsisIf you are considering placing a child with special needs at a new school, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Should you choose a special school, or a special unit within a mainstream school? What will be the involvement of therapists? Maybe home schooling would be best? Whether the child has autism, dyslexia or any other special educational, emotional or behavioural difficulty, this book will help you find the school that suits the child best. From drawing up a list of possibilities and setting up a school visit, to asking the right questions and recording your opinions in order to make an informed decision, Choosing a School for a Child with Special Needs will guide you through this complex and stressful process with confidence and ease.Whether you are a parent seeking a special school, a professional researching a school, or a teacher recommending what to look for in a school, this book is a must-have reference for anyone taking school placement seriously.Trade Reviewa significant resource that can help in ensuring that all parties involved in choosing a school for a child with special needs are aware of the questions that need to be asked. -- DebateThere is plenty of information in this book and its methodical approach gives lots of advice to help you choose a school for your child... As most parents see making the right choice of school as fundamental to their child's future life, this book is a very good place to start. -- CerebraThis guide is very thorough and has been impeccably researched by its author, an educational psychologist in independent practice... This would be a very useful guide for parents and parent partnership officers working together. Other educational professionals might also recommend it to parents. -- Naplic MattersRuth Birnbaum's aim to try and make education as accessible as possible for the children who often rely on others to be their advocates, is the key to the success of this book. She places herself firmly with the child and hopes that by alerting parents and professionals to the sort of questions they need to ask and the types of provision which will be suitable, the children will benefit. The result is a book that has in-depth information together with questions and checklists, on just about everything a parent or carer will need to be aware of as they approach the daunting task of selecting the educational provision which will best support their child with special educational needs. This book is a comprehensive survey and guide from an educational psychologist with a wealth of knowledge and experience to share. It will be invaluable to parents and carers and a most useful resource for educational professionals, schools and students.` -- PMLD LinkA comprehensive guide for parents in the selection of a school for their child. It gives detailed information on all aspect os Special Educational Needs (SEN) and the SEN Code of Practice, including the current law, range of educational provision and approaches, as well as the roles of professionals involved in assessment and therapy. She provides useful questions for parents to ask and a checklist to support parents through the selection process, finishing with a handy resources and websites section. This excellent book would also provide students and newly qualified therapists with an overview of the minefield that is SEN provision. It will go straight into our parents' library. -- Speech & Language Therapy in PracticeChoosing a School for a Child With Special Needs offers an outstanding survey telling parents how to place a child with special needs at a new school. From considering special units within mainstream schools to special schools and involving therapists or home schooling, this provides guidelines general enough to apply to a wide range of possibilities and child needs, pinpointing the factors that go into selecting the right institution. Any collection strong in education or special needs concerns will welcome this survey. -- The Midwest Book ReviewParents need access to such an enormous amount of information when they embark on their quest for choosing a school for their child with special educational needs, often at a time when they feel least able to find it. How reassuring to find a book that has everything under one cover! Ruth's book provides a full description of needs, interventions and models of delivery as well as a comprehensive list of questions for parents to ask - all in an extremely clear and 'user-friendly' layout. Her book will empower parents as they weave their way through a system that can often feel challenging and overwhelming. -- Joanna Burgess, Principal, Blossom House SchoolChoosing the right school is key to the development of any child and particularly children with special needs. Without the expert help and assistance of educational psychologists like Ruth, challenging the educational authorities to get the correct placements would be that much harder. Hopefully this book will help parents on this journey. -- Richard Budnyj, Secretary of FOLKSAt a time when it is increasingly difficult to have your special needs child statemented, and therefore gain access to the right school and much needed therapies that make a huge difference in the early years, a book such as this, written by Ruth Birnbaum, who has helped hundreds of desperate parents trying to access the right placement for their child, as I was, will be an enormous help in providing a path through the educational maze. -- Lady Astor of Hever, author and NAS ambassadorTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Explanatory Terms. Introduction. Part 1 - Looking at Specific Definitions of Special Educational Needs. 1. The Definition of Special Educational Needs. 2. Communication and Interaction. 3. Cognition and Learning. 4. Behaviour, Emotional and Social Development. 5. Sensory and Physical Needs. 6. Complex Needs. 7. Medical Needs and School Trips. 8. The Current Law on Special Educational Needs. Part 2 - Understanding the Background. 9. Understanding the Child's Needs and the Role of Assessment by a Psychologist. 10. How to Draw Up a List of Schools. 11. Getting the Right Documents. Part 3 - Setting Up a Visit. 12. How to Set Up a Visit. 13. Looking at the Physical School Environment in General. 14. Looking at the Classroom Environment. 15. Making a Record of the School Visit. Part 4 - Looking at Specific Provision/Intervention. 16. Teaching for Specific Learning Difficulties. 17. Intervention for Sensory Needs. 18. Autistic Provision. 19. Music Therapy, Drama Therapy, Play Therapy and Psychotherapy. 20. Counselling and Mentoring. 21. Speech and Language Therapy. 22. Occupational Therapy. 23. Physiotherapy. Part 5 - Other Important Issues to Consider. 24. Integration and Inclusion. 25. Religious Beliefs, Co-Education, Small Classes, School Size and Transition. 26. Equality and Discrimination. Part 6 - Different School Models. 27. Mainstream Schools. 28. Special Units in Mainstream Schools. 29. Special Schools. 30. Dual Placements. 31. Pupil Referral Units. 32. Residential Schools. 33. Home Education. 34. Hospital Schools. 35. Studio Schools and Virtual Schools. Part 7 - Summary. 36. Evaluating the Findings. Bibliography. Resources and Useful Organisations. Websites. Index

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Book SynopsisOne young child in every four is overweight and one in ten is obese, some of the reasons for this are: a general lack of interest and understanding of food and cooking junk food being consumed every day a more sedentary school life. As a key issue that needs to be tackled early, starting with the under fives, this book offers: advice and recipe ideas for feeding young children properly ways to improve young children’s understanding of food and nutrition contemporary evidence and policies recommended by expert advisory bodies underlying reasons behind nutritional guidelines and food safety advice, and practical ways to implement them. The authors present all of this in plain English without assuming any prior knowledge of nutrition, food safety or health issues.Table of ContentsMeal planning and strategies; Children's food choices; Health problems associated with diets; Food and nutrition - the basics.

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Book SynopsisYouth mentoring can be an effective way of supporting troubled youth, helping them sustain positive mental health, cope with stress, and lead successful lives through adolescence and into adulthood. This book is a comprehensive guide to youth mentoring programmes, illustrating how, if managed well, they can increase the social support available to young people. It outlines the objectives and benefits of mentoring, how it works, and how to mentor successfully. Youth mentoring in community and school settings is covered, as well as mentoring for vulnerable youth. The book illustrates different mentoring models and provides practical strategies for assessing, setting up, and monitoring the mentoring relationship and its outcomes for the young person. The challenges and difficulties associated with mentoring programmes and strategies to overcome them are also addressed. This will be an essential guide for anyone working with young people, including youth workers, social workers, residential care staff, foster carers, community development workers, teachers and community police.Trade Review(...) a thoughtfully produced text and an excellent guide for a range of professionals who come into contact with troubled young people. -- Young Minds MagazineOver the last decade a solid body of evidence has emerged, showing which types of mentoring lead to the most significant outcomes for young people. This book is a timely summary of current understanding, and a well-structured and meticulously referenced tour of best practice... Whether you are a policymaker deciding whether to fund mentoring or a practitioner starting or improving a programme, A Guide to Youth Mentoring will help you to understand what works and why. -- Children & Young People Now, Richard Turner, Chief ExecutiveMany of us know from experience that a lasting relationship with a trusted and trustworthy adult can make all the difference in a young person's life. This book helpfully reviews the research evidence in order to offer practical advice on establishing effective mentoring schemes. It does not oversell or pretend that mentoring fits all and it does not forget that the mentors need proper support themselves. A good read for both established mentoring schemes and those just starting out. -- Dr Liz Hoggarth, formerly senior research fellow, Youth Affairs Unit, De Montfort UniversityTable of ContentsAbout the Authors. Introduction. 1. Understanding Social Support and Its Role in Youth Mentoring. 2. Assessing Social Support for Youth within a Mentoring Context. 3. Good Practice in Mentoring Programmes. 4. School-based Mentoring. 5. Providing Social Support through Mentoring for Specific Groups of Young People. Conclusion. Useful Contacts. Subject Index. Author Index.

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Book SynopsisHow do you know which college is right for you? What happens if you don't get on with your roommate? And what on earth is the Greek system all about? As a university student with High-Functioning Autism, Haley Moss offers essential tips and advice in this insider's guide to surviving the Freshman year of college.Chatty, honest and full of really useful information, Haley's first-hand account of the college experience covers everything students with Autism Spectrum Disorders need to know. She talks through getting ready for college, dorm life and living away from parents, what to expect from classes, professors and exams, and how to cope in new social situations and make friends.This book is a must-read for all students on the autism spectrum who are about to begin their first year of college, parents and teachers who are helping them prepare, and college faculty and staff.Trade ReviewAs students on the ASD spectrum and their families examine the possibility of college study and begin the selection, application and preparation for a college experience, they need all the help and advice they can get. A Freshman Survival Guide for College Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders is a gem of help and hope in that process. Individuals on the spectrum, their families and their advisors will all benefit from Haley's thoughts and experiences. Perhaps the most valuable aspect of this book is that Haley is LIVING this experience as she writes about it. -- From the foreword by Susan J. Moreno, CEO and Founder, OASIS@MAAP, MAAP Services for Autism and Asperger SyndromeCollege is an amazing chance to redefine yourself - which means lots of adventures, and lots of choices. Haley's book is chock full of the lessons she's learned along her own journey, a bundle which she's generously sharing “from the front lines”. Covering day-to-day practicalities and life-changing decisions, the building blocks to your own unique college experience can be found right here. -- Jennifer Cook O'Toole, author of Asperkids, The Asperkids' (Secret) Book of Social Rules and other Asperkids titlesTable of ContentsAcknowledgments. Foreword by Susan J. Moreno. Introduction. 1. While You're Still in High School. 2. Getting Ready for College.3. Dorm Life 101. 4. Academics. 5. Professional Development – Career Prep, Involvement, and More! 6. Social Life and Social Issues. 7. Stress and Mental Health. 8. Living Independently. 9. Home and Growing Up. Helpful Websites.

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Book SynopsisOur Boys is a positive, practical, down-to-earth guide that outlines what makes boys tick, describes their development from babyhood to childhood to manhood, and is full of great ideas and suggestions.Each chapter focuses on a different age group - the first four years, 4 to 7, 8 to 11, 12 to 17, and 18-plus - detailing how boys grow physically, emotionally and developmentally throughout these stages.Ruth Kerr and Richard Aston have been working with boys for 13 years, matching fatherless boys with male mentors and running a highly successful programme called Big Buddy that helps boys grow and develop into fine young men.They have distilled the wisdom they've gained from working with hundreds of Big Buddy boys and men, as well as from parenting their own children and grandchildren.

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Book SynopsisA Russian Upstairs, Downstairs, but one scented with the cordite and fear of revolution, and with a cast of devotedly loyal and capable British governesses. Miss Emmie is an intimate and revealing portrait of pre-Revolutionary Russian society which, contrary to received wisdoms, reveals a complex, liberal and humane society, full of enormous potential and past achievement. It is also the biography of five intrepid women who, by travelling abroad and working as governesses in Russia, achieved an intellectual dignity, a purpose and an authority which was denied them in their homeland. The extraordinary personal adventures of these women, as they negotiate the turmoil and terrifying anarchy of Revolution and Civil War, turns the book into a page-turning thriller.

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Book SynopsisWhere would a classroom be without a really great TA? Ask any teacher and they will tell you that the classroom just wouldn't be the same without them. However, a great teaching assistant requires training. This book, published in partnership with the Council of British International Schools, helps demonstrate how TAs can be effective in the classroom and make a real difference to learning.Table of Contents1. Bibliography of contributors 2. Forward: COBIS Colin Bell 3. Introduction: TAs supporting in International Schools Dr Estelle Tarry and Dr Anna Cox 4. Deployment of the TAs: Ken Bland 5. TAs supporting English: Julie Jones 6. TAs supporting Maths: Wendy Yarnall 7. TAs supporting Early Years: Dr Anna Cox 8. TAs supporting inclusion and SEN: Andy Smith 9. TAs supporting EAL: Jean Edwards 10. Child protection and the International School: Wendy Turner 11. Progression TA to Teacher PGCI: 12. The impact of TAs in International Schools: Christine Williams (St Georges) 13. A TA working in an International Schools perspective: 10 TA Case studies from around the globe. Short snapshots of experience and views

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Book SynopsisProfessor Sonia Blandford, founder and CEO of the award winning charity Achievement for All and listed as one of Debrett's 500 most influential for 2015, has written four books due out this Autumn. They each share the lessons that can be learned from the thousands of schools who have signed up to Achievement for All's high impact approach to education and who have bought into the charity's commitment to close the achievement gap in Britain's schools. TAKE THE LEAD is a book for school leaders. It taps into their ambitions to ensure every pupil on their register makes progress above national expectations and shares the framework Achievement for All offers which enables them to do that. Packed with ideas and experience from Sonia's team and the leaders she's working with.

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Book SynopsisProfessor Sonia Blandford, founder and CEO of the award winning charity Achievement for All and listed as one of Debrett's 500 most influential for 2015, has written four books due out this Autumn. They each share the lessons that can be learned from the thousands of schools who have signed up to Achievement for All's high impact approach to education and who have bought into the charity's commitment to close the achievement gap in Britain's schools.LOVE TO TEACH takes a fresh look at the challenges facing teaching staff today and explores how they can meet them in a way that optimises both their sense of wellbeing and job satisfaction and ensures that every pupil in their class makes progress above national expectations.

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Book Synopsis* Can a school-led system truly become self-improving? * What is the difference between good and great schools? * Who should inspect and regulate? * How should local authorities change? * Is the landscape ahead one of all schools in partnerships? The English schools' system is at a crossroads. This landmark collection of essays brings together some of the country's leading education thinkers and practitioners. Their polemic is intended to help teachers, school leaders, governors, researchers and policy makers think deeply about future directions. 'As a Minister, I would ask which organisation was responsible for resolving a particular problem in education, only to be told: 'Don't worry, Minister - it's no longer the DFE. That is now a responsibility of the School-Led System. They will be delivering it.' Often, when you probed a little deeper, you discovered that the school-led system was nowhere near as well formed and ever present as some Ministers and senior civil servants liked to think.' David Laws 'This is a time of great possibility. Teachers are attempting to do extraordinary things. If we had more courage to shape our schools around what we believe to be a good education, then we could make life so much better not just for teachers but for the students we serve.' Peter Hyman 'For a self-improving system to be truly successful and to have a significant impact, it requires the highest performing schools to be outward reaching and to establish deep partnerships.' Rachel Macfarlane 'A self-improving school system must not become a self-regarding or, worse, a self-protecting school system. The role of external challenge is key to this.' Russell Hobby

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Book SynopsisJohn Dunford was general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders from 1998 to 2010. Prior to that, he was a member of the leadership team of three secondary schools in the north-east of England from 1974 to 1998, including 16 years as head of Durham Johnston Comprehensive School, an 11-18 school with 1500 pupils. In this outstanding book, John reveals all that he has learned about teaching and leadership over a stellar 40-year career, interweaved with a series of enlightening stories about government education policy over the last 20 years and the way in which successful schools have navigated the changing policy landscape.

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Book SynopsisCJ (Jonty) Driver has enjoyed a long and distinguished career in education in the UK and overseas, including three headships. In this poignant memoir, he provides a compelling insight into school life, with wisdom gained from a lifetime of learning. "Jonty has written an important book which should be read by all who care about schools. No one else has had such a combined impact on politics, schools and literature. It is a remarkable story." Sir Anthony Seldon, recently retired Master of Wellington College.Trade Review"I followed Jonty's career closely over subsequent years, years he describes with such poignancy in the pages of this book. He writes beautifully about schools, a subject that fascinates all of us, but which is rarely written about well. His range of experience is mind-boggling. After working at Sevenoaks, an independent school, he went to what was then South Humberside to be head of sixth form at a pioneering state school. He subsequently became head of three very different schools: the Island School in Hong Kong, serving predominantly ex-pats, then back to the UK to become Head of Graham Greene's old school, Berkhamsted, and finally, Master of Wellington College. Jonty has written an important book which should be read by all who care about schools. No one else has had such a combined impact on politics, schools and literature. It is a remarkable story." Sir Anthony Seldon, recently retired Master of Wellington College.

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Book SynopsisThere is a misconception, within the teaching profession and the general public, that Ofsted, the Health and Safety Executive and the establishment are against children being exposed to danger and that schools are prevented from giving children experiences which involve risk. Mike Fairclough, headmaster at West Rise Junior School, has blown that theory out of the water. In the superb Playing With Fire, Mike urges all schools to follow his lead, empowering other Heads and their schools to provide activities for their pupils which include an element of risk and danger. With entertaining and visual examples of his work at West Rise, including bee keeping, water buffalo breeding, shooting, archery, Forest School, paddle boarding, and skinning rabbits, Mike breezily demonstrates how teething problems and mistakes are part and parcel of risk-taking and should be embraced. The result is an empowering book that urges educators to cultivate their own resilience, courage and trust in the same way that we are hoping to foster those qualities within our students.Trade Review"This is a very important, very necessary, and very beautiful book for all parents educators around the world to treasure. Read it and rediscover the best of your childhood-and how to bring it to children everywhere."; Barbara Oakley, PhD, author of New York Times science best seller, A Mind for Numbers: How to Excel at Math and Science, and instructor of Learning How to Learn, the world's largest online course.

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Book SynopsisThis book brings together guidance, advice and tips from school business leaders across the sector. Demonstrating the importance of being an outward-facing leader, who knows their value and can clearly communicate their impact. Wherever you are in your career, this book will provide you with practical advice on how to thrive in your role, deal with difficult situations, develop your career, create positive collaborative relationships that will improve your role, your school and most importantly the outcomes for the young people you serve. School business leaders are without doubt unsung heroes in education and this book will empower you to be the best version of yourself.

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Book SynopsisAs a facilitator of a national leadership programme for experienced headteachers, Julia Steward noticed how frequently competent and apparently confident headteachers admitted to their fear of being `found out’. Along with the fear of being found out, it seemed, was a twin fear of anyone finding out that they worried about being found out. The fear was compounded by a sense of isolation: each one imagined everyone else was feeling supremely confident. Julia’s excellent book reassures leaders at all levels in schools that they are not alone, and offers practical advice and support to help readers sustain the physical and mental resilience needed to allow themselves and others to thrive. The book is based on Julia’s experience of working with hundreds of leaders, most of who have been working in schools, along with insights from her academic research, reading, and own experiences of life and leadership. Exercises, designed to support the reader to reflect on ways in which they can develop more helpful habits to sustain their own resilience, are given throughout.

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Book SynopsisThe second edition of the Journal, a companion publication to Andy Buck's bestselling book Leadership Matters 3.0, will support you in your reflections, so that you can identify what is most useful for you in the context of your current role and situation. As a school leader, your time is at a premium. That's why the Journal has been designed to be flexible, quick and easy to use. Just a few minutes spent thinking through the key questions on each topic will be time well spent when it comes to supporting your continued growth and development as a leader. The Journal is broken down into a series of topics. Each topic summarises the key points from a section of the book or the videos and then gives you the opportunity to record your reflections on: what ideas, theories or models resonate in the context of your role; what steps you commit to take as a result; what you are going to do to ensure you make these changes happen; how you will review your success in implementing them.

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Book SynopsisEducation must adapt to the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The most advanced countries in the world are all facing the challenge of retraining several generations of workers who are becoming obsolete. The education system has failed them because it hasn't evolved to respond to the advent of the Digital Revolution. It has prepared workers to meet yesterday's challenges, not tomorrow's demands. In Learning to Unlearn, Founder and CEO of Global Alumni, Pablo Rivas, an industry leader in digital education, shows us how the Digital Revolution is tearing down the traditional educational system and transforming the economy, building a brave new world for the 21st century. We already enjoy the best standards of living in human history, with better health, longer life expectancy, and access to the best tools and digital technologies. With freer societies and more global interaction, now is the time to rethink the way we learn how to solve the pressing problems we still face, re-engage those who have been left behind and build the world of tomorrow, not yesterday.Table of ContentsIntroduction: Learning every day PART I: You can float even if they take the floor away from under you 1. Break all your paradigms: learn to unlearn 2. Uncertainty will improve your life 3. Say "good morning" to a machine 4. Why does everyone talk about disruption? PART II: Education 5. I'm on your team 6. Poring over big data 7. The figure of the old professor 8. In practice 9. The company as a learning space 178 PART III: Take your first steps 10. The opportunity for a start-up 11. Giants move slowly 12. Uncertainty requires flexibility Epilogue: the best moment in history References and resources About the author

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Book SynopsisMike Murray's excellent new book attacks the narrow high stakes accountability and marketized vision which has distorted our education system, the fragmentation of education thinking into warring camps and silos and offers a radical optimistic vision of how we can emerge from the current impasse.Perfect for teachers or school leaders who want to engage with research and move the education system in a radical future direction.

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Book SynopsisThe narrative around leadership needs to change. After reading scores of leadership books in an attempt to find a voice which resonated, Emma Turner (a primary teacher of 22 years with over a decade of school leadership experience including being part of one of the first all female Co-Headships from 2009, and mum of three small children) realised that the bulk of leadership advice out there did not take into account trying to balance parenting three children as well as working in a leadership post. This book takes a practical, humorous and unique perspective on the leadership narrative by looking at leadership through the eyes of what we notice about toddlers. Packed with real examples of what works as well as reassurance that leadership is extremely do-able for many of us, this book aims to demystify some of the leadership behaviours; encourage us all to believe we can be leaders; and to, 'Be More Toddler'.

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Book SynopsisThe Three Minute Leader presents 101 snippets of advice, provocation and reflection to encourage school leaders as they go about their daily routines. 'Less is more' is its guiding principle. Enjoying the role is the key ingredient, together with the three essentials of leadership: humanity, clarity, courage.Education leadership is a people business. This short compendium is for people who are school leaders, wherever on the globe they find themselves.Trade Review'On days when it can be challenging for busy school leaders to find five minutes to think, The Three Minute Leader provides an invaluable collection of thought pieces. A highly useful reference point in the age of acceleration.' -- David Ingram, Head, Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi

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Book SynopsisCurriculum Exposed follows on from Samuel Strickland’s first book, Education Exposed. It is a pacy, punchy and forthright critique of how to drive the curriculum within a school and how the curriculum should be used as a vehicle for change and social justice. The book is simply and neatly laid out, with each chapter identifying common curricular misconceptions, posing lots of key questions to consider and offering multiple practical ideas that you can take away. Every chapter ends with five key highlights for you to carefully consider. It offers a neat interplay of theory, research, Samuel’s expertise and experience coupled with a practical and real-world approach. The first section of the book champions the importance of knowledge, the issue with skills, why the teacher should be the expert, underpinning theories with practical suggestions regarding how to plan the curriculum as a whole. The second section of the book will take you through a series of curriculum tools and teaching approaches that will assist you to think about how you implement the curriculum. The final section of the book champions the notion that the teacher is the expert, focusing on the importance of subject knowledge and coaching and explains how to monitor the curriculum carefully. Curriculum Exposed is relevant for anyone working in a school, irrespective of their position or role. It is designed to be an accessible, versatile and quick read. Equally, it can be used as a ‘dip-in and dip-out guide’ to the curriculum. Multiple practical approaches and strategies are offered as key take-away points.

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Book SynopsisThe narrative around flexible working needs flipping. After being able to work flexibly for 14 of her 23 years in education across teaching, school leadership and MAT leadership roles, Emma Turner realised that sadly, she's actually in the minority and has just been kinda lucky. Across the education system, although there is a recent groundswell of support for developing more life friendly, innovative and flexi ways of working, there are still a great deal of misconceptions, biases and prejudices about flexible working and flexible workers. Through her 'playlist' of educational floor fillers, Emma explores some of the successful ways in which flexible working can be viewed by both employers and employees for staff at all levels, including senior and school leadership. Designed to open up the flexible working conversation, this book outlines what can work, what has worked and what could work. This new way of viewing the flexi narrative from an experienced flex-pert encourages all to revisit our views on flexible working.

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Book SynopsisMost schools become good, but very few become outstanding. Why is that? Because the journey to good and the journey to outstanding are qualitatively different. Getting to good is about compliance, systems and making sure a demanding list of actions are done every day - it's no small feat. Getting to outstanding is about creating a high-performing culture, something most leaders are not adequately trained to do, and it's the reason most schools struggle to break the glass ceiling of good. Every school can be outstanding. This book will show you what is really holding your school back and the three culture strategies you need to put in place to create a genuinely outstanding school. A school which delivers excellent education is holistic, has great results and prepares your students for their next steps whilst being a joy to work in. Sonia Gill has an impressive track record in supporting headteachers to create genuinely outstanding schools without focusing on the Ofsted framework; the schools she supports are far more likely to achieve 'outstanding' than those that don't.

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Book SynopsisIf you're in education, then you know that while there are many positives to the profession, it is also facing many challenges. This easy-to-use, accessible, and entertaining book shows us how diary-keeping can help us gain insight into our wellbeing needs and move forward in our lives, personally and professionally. This book is the perfect starting point to explore what reflective practice means to you. From an overview of diary-keeping and why it's important for educator wellbeing, to plenty of practical tips, strategies, and activities for you to try out yourself, it is filled with simple pragmatic guidance to help make diary-keeping a sustainable part of your practice.Reimagining the diary - to include writing, drawing, audio recordings, photographs, scrapbooking, and other approaches - is not only fun and creative, but essential when it comes to understanding yourself and your own complex needs. By adopting small changes in a way that suits you, you can start to address your individual wellbeing needs and rebalance your work and, more importantly, your life.Trade ReviewI loved this book. I am a committed diary keeper, but very much hope that Lucy's powerful message reaches all those whose preconceptions about what diary keeping involves might deter them from considering the practice. In her impressively referenced, research-informed, balanced and realistic consideration of how the diary can be 're-imagined', Lucy explores a wide range of strategies for using a dairy/journal/record which is bespoke and personal, aligned with our own choices and context. She offers a wealth of practical suggestions, tips and actionable guidance as to how the reader can make a diary work for them, and why it is a worthwhile use of our time and energy. Lucy explains in an entertaining, accessible and compelling way how such a record can support our reflection, help us to process our experiences and our response to them, and serve as an invaluable 'safety-valve' and source of relaxation and ease. Lucy exhorts us to prioritise ourselves and create the space for intentional reflective practice, which she believes is key to helping educational professionals find a manageable and sustainable balance in their lives. She asserts, "I want this book to help you fall in love with diary-keeping - whether that's for the first time, a second time, or a third time." It certainly worked for me, and I am confident it will work for others. -- Jill Berry, Leadership development consultant, educational commentator and writerKelly draws on an extensive body of knowledge about humanity and our connection to the written form to create a unique guide to understanding the process of teaching. Teaching is not a role that we can ever truly perfect, as our variable (children) is such an unpredictable one. Instead, Kelly focuses our attention on developing an awareness of the process of reflection, enabling teachers to look back retrospectively and see their sustained development over time, thus leading to a sense of healthy well-being. A special read for teachers and leaders. -- Kat Howard, Director, DRET Teaching School Hub

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Book SynopsisWith nearly two decades of school governance experience across Infant, Primary, Secondary, All Through and Alternative Provision schools and academies, distilled into an easy-to-read format, Al Kingsley's My School Governance Handbook aims to make the complex world of school governance simple and accessible to all. This handbook will take you step by step through the basics of school governance, what the role entails and what you need to know. It explains how schools and multi academy trusts are structured, the key areas of school life you need to understand, relevant questions to ask and finally, includes a handy dictionary to help you navigate your way through all those pesky education acronyms.Including ideas and guidance from other experienced governors across the UK, 'My School Governance Handbook' is the perfect companion for any school governor or trustee.Trade ReviewThis book is an excellent governance handbook written by a highly effective and successful school governor and trustee. It is essential reading for any experienced or would be governor of schools or trusts allowing them to understand the complexity of the education landscape, and create a blueprint for their own education governance journey. Written in an informative, lucid and engaging style, I highly recommend it to the many volunteers engaged in supporting schools, colleges and trusts. -- Carl Ward, Chair, Foundation for Educational Development (FED)My School Governance Handbook is a great resource for anyone starting their governance journey and wondering what they need to know first. If you're already a governor, it will help you think about the broader activities going on and how you can improve further. -- Hannah Stolton, CEO, Governors for SchoolsI was really excited to be approached by Al to review a preview copy of 'My School Governance Handbook' and it's great especially because it keeps things simple! Governance can be an extremely complex area, but Al does a fantastic job when it comes to laying things out in an easy to read and understandable format. -- Matt McDermott, Founder, The Multi Academy Trust AssociationWhether you are just exploring what you may be able to bring to a school or MAT as a governor or trustee, or have already set off on your governance journey, 'My School Governance Handbook' will prove to be an invaluable source of information for you. Al has very ably distilled a wealth of information in this accessible guide which should be essential reading for all who wish to ensure that good governance is at the heart of all that we seek to achieve for our children and young people. -- Mark Potter, Chair of the Board of Trustees, Thomas Deacon Education TrustWhat a great read - all resources in one place! 'My School Governance Handbook' is fantastic for anyone already supporting schools and trusts or for those interested in school governance. This book will hopefully inspire others and provide the tools and confidence to those interested in getting involved. -- Emily Culpin, Governance Professional, Hampton Academies Trust'My School Governance Handbook' is an essential guide for governors to lead our schools with relevance and innovation. There are many areas where Al's expertise is invaluable, but this book manages to be both forward thinking and accessible for every governor. -- Caroline Allams, Co-Founder and Chief of Product, NatterhubAl Kingsley's Governance Handbook is an excellent and welcome resource for school governors or trustees - whether starting out or experienced in the role. It's really comprehensive, well written and very approachable. -- Neil Collins, MD, GovernorHubFirst off, the book is brilliant. It's the book I wish I could have read and recommended when I was juggling multiple governing bodies. Thank you for writing it. -- Dr Pooky Knightsmith, Mental Health Speaker, Author and Advisor

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Book SynopsisResponding to a challenge posed by state and independent schools, Ian and Hilary Wigston launched a unique mentoring programme to transform women's leadership in education. This programme, explored in the 2021 book The Magic in the Space Between, achieved huge success in the UK and led to similar initiatives in North America, Australasia and Africa.This new book, The Magic in the Space Beyond, presents a series of transformational projects produced by aspiring school leaders who were given the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues from around the world. Inspired by their world-class mentors, these remarkable women have forged new and innovative pathways for their own development while researching and documenting radical solutions to contemporary issues.These case studies explore the new frontiers that educators and students face every day, including:· How to respond to the god-like nature of social media influencers.· Building a proactive strategy to address neurodiversity.· Addressing post-pandemic mental health.· Developing a playbook to enable student resilience.Trade Review[The Magic in the Space Beyond's] lessons are just as valid for the representation of social, economic and ethnic groups as they are for women, and demonstrate the importance of effective leadership structures in realising everyone's potential ... The personal stories within are thoughtful, humorous and, perhaps most importantly, very human. They allow us a glimpse into the factors that have guided these women towards effective leadership. -- Zoe Enser, Schools Week

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Book Synopsis''Forensic and impassioned'' Baroness Wolf''A must-read essay for those interested in the battle for the heart and soul of English Higher Education'' Carl LygoA clarion call for academics and policymakers alike, Cry Freedom prompts reflection on the evolving relationship between government and higher education. The book challenges compellingly the accepted wisdom that all universities are public entities controllable from Whitehall.It urges readers to reconsider the core values of academic autonomy and freedom of action that were supposed to be enshrined in 2017''s Higher Education and Research Act but which have come under increasing regulatory assault.''Brilliant and disturbing'' Lord Lilley''Important analysis'' Lord Willetts''Insightful book'' Lord Agnew''This important and well-written book combines a meticulous approach to evidence with a persuasive argument'' Nick Hillman

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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