“This small but well-formed book starts with a brutally honest truth: that many headteachers, far from experiencing joy at what should be the best job in the world, are at risk of burnout or boredom. I first encountered Nadia when I was in recovery from the first, but if I’d been able to put into practice some of the ideas in this book, I am confident that I would have reduced my risk considerably. The book tackles some of the problems associated with contemporary school leadership in a time of resource scarcity and high-stakes accountability by reminding us that we came into the job for a reason, and by helping us reconnect with that. With our own personal visions intact, and with our own ‘why’ at the heart of our decision-making and practice, Nadia helps us to find the strength to resist the hijacks that come from the minutiae of organizational management and to understand why we sometimes let ourselves put off the ‘deep work’ and get involved in timetabling, caretaking, or some other bizarre job at the expense of the work that is unique to our role in school. What is really good to see here, however, is the importance placed on leading teaching and learning. Too many books and blogs on managing the trials of headship focus on self-care as if this can be carried out in isolation from the core purpose of being the headTEACHER. Clarity about the roles of instructional coaching and non-directive coaching will be helpful to school leaders and to their staff, and the importance of devoting time to teacher development within clearly codified ways of working is developed in the chapter on ‘Leading Teachers’. This book should be essential reading for all senior leaders in school who want to lead their schools without losing sight of who they are and what they stand for.”

I loved reading this timely and positive book. Written from the heart, from someone who’s been there, this honest, open and practical guide will be a huge help to our brilliant Headteachers across the country; they’re operating in challenging circumstances, their work is of profound importance. As well as being a motivational call to arms, Nadia’s book is packed with simple, user-friendly tips, strategies and approaches for leaders to use.”

“This book is a great guide for any headteacher, either new to the profession or deeply experienced. Striking the balance perfectly between compassion and pragmatism it gives practical advice on how to thrive in headship, whilst staying true to your values and managing the multiple challenges that come with the role. Having been a headteacher I know that it is one of the best jobs in the world, but also one of the hardest. Nadia sets out how the job can be both manageable and enjoyable. This is an honest, insightful and empowering book for any school leader.”

This will help great leaders get even better. A sensible, thoughtful and important book that is evidenced and experienced based giving a real insight into a range of strategies, techniques and advice that will help school leaders improve their practice, look after themselves and ultimately be better at what they do. Nadia encourages leaders to ignore the noise that surrounds the role. If you can, it will enable you to recognise the behaviours and traits that we should all be aware of so we can reflect, make informed decisions, look after ourselves and those around us and do what we all want to do.....provide an incredible education for our young people.

‘I loved this book and I wish I had had a copy when I was a leader myself. With lots of practical advice on how to be an effective leader and look after your own wellbeing at the same time.’

This is a welcome addition to the school leadership library. Nadia is honest, funny, practical and empowering. At a time when there are more challenges than ever for school leaders, this book gives some welcome relief. Looking after ourselves and finding sustainable ways of working are key. Well done Nadia!