With summer here, now is the perfect opportunity to pause, reflect—and dive into books that inspire, challenge, and refine your leadership.
At SchoolLeaderBooks.com, you’ll find a carefully curated collection of titles written by school leaders, for school leaders. Whether you're a headteacher, senior leader, or aspiring to lead, these books offer more than strategies—they offer clarity, perspective, and renewed purpose.
Here’s a curated summer reading list for school leaders, featuring standout titles from the shelf.
Recommended Titles for Your Summer Break
The Honest Headteacher – Hannah Carter
A candid, heartfelt account of the realities of headship—filled with truth, humour, and resilience.
Authentic School Improvement – Victoria Carr
A guide to leading sustainable change grounded in trust, inclusion, and school culture.
No Silver Bullets 2.0 – Paul Ainsworth
An updated, evidence-based perspective on continuous school improvement—focused on what works, not what’s fashionable.
School Leaders Matter – Helen Kelly
A timely exploration of leadership wellbeing, burnout, and how we build a healthier future for those who lead.
Codified Leadership – Caroline Sherwood & Andrew Finney
A practical framework for consistent, intentional leadership grounded in shared values and action.
The Nine Pillars of Great Schools – Rachel MacFarlane
An insightful blueprint for school improvement, culture-building, and long-term impact.
The Awkward Questions in Education – Al Kingsley MBE
A thoughtful and provocative exploration of the big issues facing schools today—with challenge and clarity in equal measure.
The Wellbeing Toolkit – Andrew Cowley
Practical strategies for creating a positive staff culture that supports wellbeing at every level.
Irresistible Learning – Graham Chisnell
A compelling look at how to create rich, engaging, and meaningful learning experiences across your school.
Leadership with a Moral Purpose – Will Ryan
A powerful call to lead with values, courage, and an unwavering commitment to children.
Whether you're leading through change, developing culture, supporting wellbeing—or simply taking time to recharge—these books are more than professional reading. They’re a chance to reconnect with the why behind your work.
What’s on your summer reading list?
We’d love to hear your recommendations. Share your favourite leadership reads with us and join the conversation in the Headteacher Chat Community.
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