High-quality professional reading has the power to inform, inspire, and sustain effective school leadership. Whether you're leading a school, supporting a team, or developing your own leadership journey, these titles offer practical insights, reflective guidance, and real-world strategies.
Below, we’ve curated a selection of essential reads—linked to their listings on SchoolLeaderBooks.com—alongside further resources from the Headteacher Chat Community.
1. They Don't Behave for Me by Sam Strickland
Behaviour management remains one of the most pressing challenges in schools. In this direct and highly practical guide, Sam Strickland offers clear strategies for building strong routines, high expectations, and consistent systems that work.
2. The School Leader’s Year by Michael Harpham
A month-by-month guide to leading a school, this book supports headteachers and senior leaders through the rhythm of the academic year. Michael Harpham offers practical advice, templates, and leadership reflection prompts aligned to each term.
3. Intelligent Accountability by David Didau
David Didau explores how we can hold educators to account while also nurturing trust and professional growth. A must-read for school leaders rethinking performance management and accountability practices in a high-stakes system.
4. Creating a Strong Culture by Nick Hart
Culture underpins everything in school. Nick Hart shares how leaders can build an intentional, values-led culture that supports improvement, wellbeing, and shared purpose across the whole school community.
5. Lighting the Way: The Case for Ethical Leadership in Schools
Edited by various contributors
A thought-provoking exploration of ethical school leadership, written by experienced practitioners. This book examines integrity, moral decision-making, and the impact of values-driven leadership on school culture and outcomes.
6. Parklands: A School Built on Love by Chris Dyson
Chris Dyson tells the remarkable story of Parklands Primary School’s transformation—from crisis to community. An inspiring reminder of the power of compassion, consistency, and care in school leadership.
7. My School Governance Handbook by Al Kingsley
A practical, accessible guide to school governance, perfect for headteachers, trustees, and governors alike. Al Kingsley explains how good governance supports strong leadership, compliance, and strategic direction.
8. The Nine Pillars of Great Schools by Rachel MacFarlane
Rachel MacFarlane explores the key foundations of successful schools—from leadership and curriculum to culture and inclusion. A structured and strategic resource for anyone involved in whole-school improvement.
9. No Silver Bullets by Paul Ainsworth
This book debunks the idea of quick fixes in education. Paul Ainsworth offers a realistic, incremental approach to school improvement—focusing on the daily habits and systems that drive sustainable success.
10. The Headteacher’s Handbook by Rae Snape
A warm, wise, and practical guide to leading a school. Rae Snape shares her experiences and strategies, covering everything from vision-setting to staff wellbeing in a way that’s empowering and accessible for new and experienced headteachers alike.
Further Support from Headteacher Chat
Complement your reading with practical tools, CPD, and community support:
- Headteacher Chat Community – Connect with school leaders, share ideas, and access leadership resources
- Headteacher Chat Blogs – Explore expert-written reflections on leadership, wellbeing, culture, and policy
- MasterClasses and Templates – Access downloadable leadership tools, checklists, and CPD sessions designed by school leaders for school leaders
Updated: March 2025
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