In this episode, Tom and Emma speak with Sam Strickland, a U.K. school head known for his “no nonsense” approach and true passion for education leadership. Sam’s latest book is Education Exposed 2: In pursuit of the halcyon dream, published by John Catt Educational, which centers around the key idea of “allowing teachers to teach,” and removing the factors that drive teachers from the profession.

Sam brings a blend of energy, ideas, and humor to the interview. He discusses key tenets of leadership, how to support a staff, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Sam also dives into curriculum, behavior management, cutting out the “red tape” around teaching, how to avoid falling into the trap of complacency, and much more. Whether you’re already familiar with Sam’s work or this is your first introduction, you’re sure to gain many valuable insights from his experience.

Visit edCircuit.com to watch this episode.

Mind the Gap is presented by John Catt Educational, a leading independent publisher that has supported teachers and school leaders with research-based, easy to use professional development publications since 1959. Learn more about books from Tom, Emma, and many other world-class authors at us.johncattbookshop.com (US) or johncattbookshop.com (UK and Global). 

Sam Strickland is the principal of a large all-through school and has helped to guide its GCSE results from the bottom 20% nationally to the top 20% and A Level outcomes to the top 5% nationally. He is author of Education Exposed: Leading a school in a time of uncertainty and  Education Exposed 2: In pursuit of the halcyon dream. Follow him on Twitter at @Strickomaster

Tom Sherrington's books include Teaching WalkThrus, Rosenshine’s Principles in Action and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead

Emma Turner is author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners and Let’s Talk About Flex: Flipping the flexible working narrative for education. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_