All the time, Every time, All of us, Everywhere! The intentional transformation of a failing school
By Iain Taylor
Leadership is the beating heart of every successful school. The story of Iain Taylor’s journey at Manurewa Intermediate is not only a great read, it is also a beacon of optimism in an educational landscape that can sometimes feel grey, if not grim.
From the outset, it was never going to be an easy fix; taking a failing, run-down, intermediate school in the poorest part of South Auckland and transforming it into a place of achievement, success, and pride for the students, staff, and the wider community. It is this belief in what a school should be that drives every decision, every initiative, and every effort.
This school needs to be good enough for your OWN kid! . . . SO teach as if you are teaching your own kid!
This is the story of school transformation fuelled by the principal’s unshakeable belief that all students can experience success, and every student, every time, deserves to find that success in their local school. Iain’s story of grit, bravery, and stubborn determination will inspire you to make a difference in the lives of the children who walk through the gates.
Whether you are an experienced principal or are just beginning your leadership journey, there are nuggets of gold in this book for everyone, including 12 guiding principles for effective leadership. This is my latest coffee-table book. It features excellent illustrations,
inspiring quotes, and ideas to dip into, revisit, and share with colleagues.
Karen Brisco
When the Adults Change, Everything Changes Seismic shifts in school behaviour
By Paul Dix
This is a really practical and down to earth read for school leaders. It’s a strong reminder that if we want things to improve for our students, we as adults have to shift what we do first.
One of the most useful parts of the book is the idea of using simple scripts. These give teachers the words to handle tricky situations without getting caught up in the moment. It helps keep things calm, fair, and focused on learning rather than emotion.
The idea of deliberate botheredness also stands out. It’s about showing students, especially those who push the boundaries, that we see them and care about them. Those small, consistent actions really matter and can make a big difference over time.
For principals, this is a great book to share with staff. It’s full of practical ideas and examples that teachers can pick up and use straight away. It reminds us that the students who challenge us the most often need us the most, and that our consistency and care can make all the difference.
Hayley Read