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`A valuable collection of columns that promotes an enlightened, progressive way of practising and thinking about education. It shows that teachers who operate at the sharp end of school life have reasons to be optimistic too' - Will Woodward, Editor, Education Guardian



Sonia Blandford's weekly Masterclass columns proved a hit with readers when they appeared in The Guardian. Now, for the first time, readers can enjoy a selection of Sonia's columns in one book.





Each chapter focuses on a current issue being faced by practitioners and school leaders, and draws on real-life events and case studies to provide practical solutions.





The book includes:


" advice on creation and implementation of policies


" practical guidance on behaviour management


" consideration of workforce reform and its impact on practice


" discussion points at the end of each chapter





This book is an excellent starting point for NQTs, Teachers and Teacher Trainers looking for an informative and entertaining route into discussing some of the more pressing problems in education today. `A valuable collection of columns that promotes an enlightened, progressive way of practising and thinking about education. It shows that teachers who operate at the sharp end of school life have reasons to be optimistic too' - Will Woodward, Editor, Education Guardian

Sonia Blandford's Masterclass

MASTERCLASS

Introduction

Importance of Looking After the Individual in a Community of Learners

What Makes a Good Learning Environment?

Summary

ISSUES IN EDUCATION

Introduction

A Palatable Alternative to Selling Crisps in School Tuck Shops

Inclusion Is About Identifying and Removing Injustices

Time to Give SENCOs the Support They Deserve

Schools Are a Microcosm of their Local Community

Good Practice Is What Makes Teaching a Job worth Having

Importance of Planning

Noise Control - A Level of Distraction

Summary

LEADERSHIP

Introduction

Time for Individual Needs to Take Priority

All Teachers Can Be Managers and Leaders

A Team Doesn't Pull Together without Effective Leadership

No Teacher is an Island - they Need to Collaborate

Meetings Are not a Waste of Teachers' Time

Teachers Should Seize the Chance to Become Budget Holders

Summary

CLASSROOM PRACTICE

Introduction

Pupils Thrive in Structured, Creative Mess

Learning Should Be Staged Like Scaffolding with the Next Level

Visible Threats Quash Bad Behaviour but Positive Reinforcement Has Lasting Effect

Successful Teachers Focus On Learning Not Behaviour Management

The Referee in the Classroom - Expectations and Rules

Rewards and Praise Work Much Better than Threats and Punishment

Communication in Schools Should Be in a Quiet Way and Shouting Is Outlawed

Children Who Have Not Learnt How to Behave Need Expert Help

Good Teachers Focus on What Each Pupil Can Do

Assessment Should Be a Means to Improve Teaching

The Art of Report Writing

The Public Examination System Is a Bit Like a Lift

A Stressed Teacher Will Be Less Effective than a Relaxed One

Summary

ARTS

Introduction

A Different Tune

Teachers Can Still Make Performers of their Students

A Few Tips on How to Face the Music of the School Performance

Creative Ideas Can Be Found In the Oddest Places

Summary

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Introduction

Trainee Teachers Need Qualified and Devoted Mentors

How to Give Newly Qualified Teachers a Good Start

Much More Thought Should Be Given To Planning Staff Training Days

Make Provision for Continuing Professional Development - a Space To Grow

Everyone Should Consider Further Study for Themselves

Summary

FUTURES

Introduction

Differences in Educational Provision in Schools and FE Colleges

Recruit People to the Profession

Increased Use of Computers Has Had a Limited Impact On Learning

Is Remodelling the National Curriculum the Way Forward?

Remodelling the Workforce - How to Make Best Use of Extra Staff

A New Curriculum Geared to Individual Needs

Summary