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Discover the top books every school leader should read in Autumn 2025. Our curated leadership reading guide features essential titles to enhance your educational leadership skills and drive school success.

At School Leader Books, we track which titles generate the most engagement among school leaders. From behaviour management to leadership habits, these are the reviews and books attracting the most attention this autumn.

Review That Behaviour Book – The Simple Truth About Teaching Children

Behaviour remains a top priority in schools, and this practical book continues to resonate. Leaders appreciate its clear strategies for building routines and supporting positive classroom culture.

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Because of You, This is Me by Jaz Ampaw-Farr

Jaz Ampaw-Farr’s memoir is a powerful reminder of education’s transformative potential. School leaders are drawn to its personal narrative and professional reflections on resilience, hope, and impact.

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The Teacher Toolkit Guide to Feedback by Ross McGill

Feedback remains central to improving teaching and learning. This review highlights evidence-informed, practical strategies for making feedback efficient and impactful.

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This Much I Know About Truly Great Primary Teachers by John Tomsett

A reflective and insightful book, offering lessons on what makes outstanding primary teaching. Leaders value Tomsett’s ability to blend frontline teaching wisdom with broader leadership perspective.

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Making Every PE Lesson Count

Physical education is gaining prominence, not just for health but also for character, resilience, and inclusion. This review explores how to maximise the impact of every PE lesson.

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How Do They Do It? by Mark Enser and Zoë Enser

A practical exploration of how successful teachers work day-to-day, with insights applicable across subjects and phases. Leaders are turning to this book for grounded strategies and inspiration.

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Making Change Stick by Dr James Mannion

School improvement is only as strong as the systems that sustain it. This book offers practical, research-informed guidance on embedding lasting change in schools.

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Codified Leadership Behaviours and Habits that Make a Difference in Schools by Caroline Sherwood and Andrew Finney

A clear framework for leadership behaviours and routines that matter. Leaders value its structured approach to building effective habits at all levels.

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The Honest Headteacher (The Honest Educator Series)

A candid, relatable account of headship, offering authenticity and honesty that many school leaders crave.

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Final Thoughts

These popular books reflect the balance that school leaders are looking for:

  • Practical strategies in behaviour, feedback, and teaching.
  • Leadership frameworks to support effective habits and sustainable change.
  • Inspiration and authenticity from personal stories and lived experiences.

They are not just books to read—they are guides, reflections, and sources of encouragement for leaders navigating today’s education landscape.