A Manifesto for Excellence in Schools

Rob Carpenter is one of the most inspirational educators that I have ever met. His passion and drive are making a real and lasting difference to our school children. * Matthew Syed, bestselling author of 'Black Box Thinking' and 'You Are Awesome' *
I just love this book. With children and classrooms at its heart, it challenges some deeply held assumptions about school improvement and really does come up with a compelling manifesto for change, rooted in collaboration, experimentation, trust and interactivity not activity. But most of all, it's the story of how a community of adults and children have learnt and grown together and achieved great success. A must-read for educational leaders in any setting. * Andy Buck, founder of #honk and Leadership Matters, @Andy__Buck *
Rooted in personal experience, A Manifesto for Excellence in Schools demonstrates how rapid school improvement can be achieved through a relentless focus on collaboration. I would encourage all school leaders to read Rob's honest assessment of his headships and then ask themselves 'how can I make this approach work in my context?'. * Kcarrie Valentine, Head of Professional Development Services, Association of School and College Leaders *
This is a hugely important and timely book. A Manifesto for Excellence in Schools offers an authentic, compelling and inspiring new approach to leading schools – one that puts the emphasis on deep learning for every individual in school, not just the children, in order to create sustainable long-term growth. A must-read. * Mark Burns, leading consultant and co-author of 'Teaching Backwards' *
At a time when we are awash with theories, new research and policies, A Manifesto for Excellence in Schools is a very timely reminder that it is the children who are at the heart of school improvement. Through a very personal and honest story you will take away lots of practical and thoughtful ideas that you can make your own to suit your context – a must-read for all those who work in schools! * Dame Reena Keeble, retired headteacher and chair of the 'Effective Primary Teaching Practice Review 2016' *
A Manifesto for Excellence in Schools is a book that needs to be on the shelves of every school. In it Rob Carpenter reframes the way we look at schools. His manifesto is about relationships and capital for learning where schools work in collaboration with each other to develop pupils and staff and to be a 'special place to learn'. Combining current research, personal stories and reflections from one experienced educator, its expansive coverage is absorbing and refreshing. It is a bold book and one that offers an exciting vision for the future for schools. * Dr. Jonathan Doherty, Senior Lecturer, Institute of Childhood & Education, Leeds Trinity University *
This is a wise book. Rob Carpenter has written a guide to achieving excellence that combines principle and practice in a highly effective way. He balances systematic and rigorous analysis with authentic insights and a deep understanding of evidence-informed practice. This book is a powerful resource for leadership combining challenge and reassurance with an unwavering focus on the quality of learning for all. * John West-Burnham, independent teacher, writing and consultant in leadership development *
As a manifesto, this is both thorough but also easy to read. The author's style is engaging and compelling. We are encourage along and gently challenged and persuaded with case studies to highlight key features. With a strong chapter about leadership and professional development, the reader is left with a comprehensive model for excellence. * UKEdChat *
Anyone interested in the critical issue of school improvement would benefit from reflecting on the core messages that underpin Carpenter’s manifesto. * James Bowen, TES News *
The advice proffered could well help avert those all-too-easy 'own goals' and, more importantly, help focus our efforts and attention on what really matters: the young people we serve and the communities we must increasingly engage. * Governing Matters *