Education: The Rock and Roll Years: A northern perspective on a lifetime of learning, teaching and leading

Education: The Rock and Roll Years is a personal retrospective on a life in education over the last three-quarters of a century, written by Les Walton, who has been present at all the major educational developments since World War 2. It is an optimistic, humorous, self-mocking account that emphasizes the seriousness of the issues covered by combining personal experience with key principles. It is visionary, practical, rebellious, idiosyncratic, and beautifully idiomatic, and has key messages for all those engaged in the process of life-long learning.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 13 September 2021
Publisher: Critical Publishing Ltd

Les Walton has been a prominent figure in the field of education for over three-quarters of a century, often referred to as the "Forrest Gump of education." His book, Education: The Rock and Roll Years, offers a personal retrospective on his life in education, encompassing significant developments since World War II. While Walton avoids personal negativity, much of the narrative stems from a critical perspective on school and its impact on children's lives. Nonetheless, it is also a book filled with hope, emphasizing the potential for self-actualization at the top of Maslow's hierarchy.

An optimistic, humorous, and self-mocking account, Education: The Rock and Roll Years employs a lighthearted approach to address serious issues such as corporal punishment, industrial disputes, the effects of bereavement, and many more. Through the reflections of a simple Geordie lad, Walton cunningly illuminates important educational debates, offering valuable insights for those engaged in life-long learning.

What sets Education: The Rock and Roll Years apart is its visionary, practical, rebellious, idiosyncratic, and beautifully idiomatic nature. Walton seamlessly combines his personal experiences with key educational principles, providing readers with a comprehensive and insightful account of the transformative power of education. This book is an excellent piece of writing, praised by renowned educators such as Professor Andy Hargreaves of Boston College and the University of Ottawa.

Baroness Morris of Yardley, a former Secretary of State for Education, also commends Walton for his significant contributions to education. She emphasizes that education is one of the most crucial aspects of a society's success, and Walton's reflections remind us of the importance of providing opportunities, igniting minds education, and driving positive change.

In conclusion, Les Walton's Education: The Rock and Roll Years is a remarkable testament to his enduring commitment to education and his profound impact on the field. Through his personal reflections and critical insights, Walton offers a valuable perspective on the past, present, and future of education, reminding us of the importance of nurturing human potential, promoting lifelong learning, and addressing the critical issues that shape our society. This book is a must-read for educators, policymakers, and anyone interested in the transformative power of education.

Weight: 502g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781914171321