What is the force that draws people to become teachers? What drives them? What motivates them to leap out of bed each morning, eager to start another day in the classroom?
Crucially, what is it that keeps them in the profession? What keeps them returning after every term holiday to begin another classroom adventure with a diverse bunch of learners?
Tyson, a first-year teacher and ‘nervous as hell’; Derek, the Assistant Principal, who is way behind with his admin and student record-keeping, Nova the principal, recently widowed and facing a host of governance issues (and a legal battle) as well as a parent/journalist with an agenda; Bev, in the office, dealing with some major health issues; Sally-Ann, one of those inspirational teachers, admired by her colleagues, who is desperate for a child of her own.
And there is Lionel, a Year 6 student whose mother is struggling to make ends meet. Lionel is the unlikely hero of this story. He is supporting his mum; he is caring for his little sister; he is a helpful, likeable pupil who ‘makes the whole teaching gig worthwhile’. But Lionel’s situation is moving from vulnerable to dangerous, and the staff are too busy with their daily commitments and admin duties to see what is happening.
Gabbie Stroud is an Australian teacher who now writes full time. Her first books received critical acclaim for their accurate portrayal of the Australian Education System and its many faults. The Things That Matter Most is her first work of fiction for adults, and New Zealand teachers and principals will likely identify with all of its characters and its settings.
Released late in 2023, The Things That Matter should be read by every principal and teacher (and every Ministry official!). There are so many similarities between New Zealand and Australian schools, and this book tells a story that is challenging, poignant, compelling and thought-provoking. The primary pupils are the same ones that we see in every classroom every day. But do we see their personal struggles? Do we know the issues their families are facing? And if we do, are we able to help them in any meaningful way, or do those other demands (Ministry, BoT, Systems, Society?) get in the way?
A confronting novel that tears at the heart, but leaves you with a feeling of awe and admiration for the great work our teachers do every day. A worthy read.
Principals – buy this for your staff, and take note of the strong messages and warnings it contains. It is not too late to focus on the things that matter most.
About the reviewer: Geoff Lovegrove was a New Zealand primary principal for 42 years. A former editor of this magazine and President of the NZPF 1999–2001.