Sustainable School Transformation An Inside-Out School Led Approach

At a time when schools in England, in search of a way through a veritable whirlwind of externally imposed change, can all too easily feel disempowered, this timely publication provides a powerful way of seizing back the agenda. Drawing on evidence from leading thinkers, international evidence, a wide range of case studies and other examples of leading-edge theory and best practice the book vividly demonstrates that school leaders and their staff have a great deal more freedom than might sometimes seem to be the case. Using his vast experience and knowledge David Crossley brings together a powerful set of contributions which show how courageous leaders can inspire their staff, working together and in genuine collaboration with colleagues in other parts of the system to unleash creativity and implement a genuinely appropriate curriculum which meets the needs of all of their students. I commend it to school and college leaders and everyone who has an interest in driving forward our education service. Brian Lightman, General Secretary, Association of School and College Leaders, UK This book by David Crossley isn't the only attempt to chart the next stage of school improvement but it is one of the few that combines experience and vision in such an engaging way. David understands the philosophy of devolving power to school leaders and teachers but knows the skill with which it will have to be deployed if it is to bring about significant change. The book looks far and wide for its lessons of good practice but combines this with a grounded belief that change has to come from the school itself. Anybody who is in education at this time of huge change and challenge will find their hopes and worries addressed in this book. Estelle Morris, former Secretary of State for Education and Skills, UK There is no conflict between proud, confident teachers and a restless ambition to improve. Indeed, the two are inextricably linked. This timely book draws on international evidence and experience to give a blueprint for a better way to combine high standards with renewed professional leadership. Russell Hobby, General Secretary, National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT), UK Sustainable School Transformation is an outstanding contribution to the international research on educational improvement. The authors are seasoned professionals who have lived through many cycles of reform and who understand just how difficult and yet essential they are to create real and lasting student learning gains. This a book for those who know that there are no silver bullets, accept that trade-offs are a part of life, and nonetheless are ready and eager to roll up their sleeves to map out their own unique change strategies for their schools. Educators everywhere will benefit from these invaluable contributions by David Crossley and his colleagues who show us that with enough determination and perseverance we can make all of our schools places of learning and joy for our students. Dennis Shirley, Professor of Education, Lynch School of Education, Boston College, USA David Crossley expertly turns concepts on their head, developing notions of lateral accountability and an "inside-out" approach. This timely book is a powerful but down-to-earth analysis of the changing landscape for schools. It is a book full of optimism and opportunities. It will be welcomed by those who are passionate about making a difference in education. Steve Munby, Chief Executive, CfBT Education Trust, UK