About Our Schools: Improving on previous best

Tim and Mick explore several revolutions in state education through revealing interviews with key figures, drawing lessons for improving student competence, learning, and horizons. Both have extensive experience in state-provided education and believe that schooling can be transformative.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 540 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2022
Publisher: Crown House Publishing

In a series of revealing interviews with key figures in education since the Ruskin speech of Jim Callaghan in 1976, including nearly all Secretaries of State, Sir Tim Brighouse, and Mick Waters, explore several revolutions in state education. Through this exploration, they extract valuable insights and assess the direction for the future to enable teachers and schools to enhance the competence, learning, and horizons of every student, regardless of their talents, challenges, advantages, or problems. Tim and Mick, both having spent their entire lives in state-provided education, have experienced it from various perspectives, including as pupils, teachers, and leaders in both school and policymaking roles. Their book, About Our Schools, is a testament to their shared passion for education and their recognition of the transformative power of schooling in the lives of children and young people.

The interviews conducted by Tim and Mick cover a wide range of topics, including the introduction of national curriculum, the impact of technology on learning, the role of teachers in shaping students' lives, and the challenges faced by schools in diverse communities. They delve into the experiences of teachers, policymakers, and students themselves, shedding light on the successes, failures, and ongoing debates in education.

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of personalized learning and the need to tailor education to meet the individual needs of students. Tim and Mick argue that one-size-fits-all approaches to education are not effective and that teachers should be empowered to create learning environments that are tailored to the strengths and interests of their students. They highlight the importance of providing students with opportunities to explore and develop their passions, as well as to engage in real-world experiences that connect with their learning.

Another important aspect of the book is the role of teachers in shaping students' lives beyond the classroom. Tim and Mick emphasize the importance of teachers as role models, mentors, and advocates for their students. They argue that teachers have the power to inspire, motivate, and support students, and that their presence can have a profound impact on their overall well-being and future success.

The book also explores the challenges faced by schools in diverse communities, including poverty, inequality, and cultural differences. Tim and Mick argue that schools should be inclusive and equitable, and that they should work to address the social and economic barriers that prevent students from achieving their full potential. They highlight the importance of collaboration between schools, policymakers, and community organizations in creating effective solutions to these challenges.

Throughout the book, Tim and Mick offer practical insights and recommendations for teachers, policymakers, and parents. They provide examples of successful practices and strategies that have been implemented in schools to improve student outcomes, and they offer guidance on how to implement these practices in other contexts.

In conclusion, About Our Schools is a valuable resource for anyone interested in education and the future of our schools. Through their insightful interviews and comprehensive analysis, Tim and Mick provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing education today. They offer practical insights and recommendations that can help teachers, policymakers, and parents work together to create a better future for all students.

Weight: 1496g
Dimension: 176 x 246 x 51 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785835865