It combines theory and practice in educational leadership and management in a way few other books on the market do.

Anthony Thorpe, Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader for MA Education Leadership and Management, University of Roehampton, UK

A comprehensive text which covers the main points on this complex subject. It is an ‘easy’ read in that the text flows and the topics follow logically. It could be used for Management courses for those specifically designed for teachers and/or as an example on generic management courses on the public sector.

Denise Robinson, formerly Director, Huddersfield University Centre for Excellence in Teacher Training (HUDCETT), School of Education and Professional Development, University of Huddersfield, UK

Middlewood and Abbott are well placed to understand both the pressures on schools’ staffs and the need for more than sympathy regarding the challenges of the current and fast changing schools’ system. The authors concentrate on practical ways that staff can be developed and improve for their benefit, the school and pupils. The book offers comprehensive coverage moving from the impact of government policies, the vital importance of establishing an empowering culture in schools for staff to thrive and achieve, and guidelines for strategies for supporting effective performance management. It is therefore, a must read for anyone with an interest in, or involvement with the development of schools’ staff.

Sue Robinson, former headteacher, National Leader of Education and Development Director of a Multi Academy Trust, UK