Leadership

Deborah Patterson shares her trials and tribulations gleaned over decades of being in schools, the education system and leadership roles. This book provides teachers, educators and principals with a collection of tips, tools and strategies to help them become the best they can be and the leader that they want to be. Knitting together stories and providing a whole lot of sound advice, Deborah provides a real insight into principalship and how to be a successful unconventional educational leader.

The Pruning Principle $34.95

The Pruning Principle offers a groundbreaking approach to educational leadership, drawing inspiration from horticulture to address the chronic issues of overwork and inefficiency in schools. The authors, Dr Simon Breakspear and Michael Rosenbrock, propose a radical shift from the culture of “doing more” to one of strategic subtraction, arguing that by carefully pruning away non-essential tasks and initiatives, schools can achieve better outcomes with less strain on resources and staff. This practical guide provides a comprehensive framework for implementing The Pruning Principle in educational settings. It outlines the causes of current challenges, introduces the concept and mechanics of pruning, and offers detailed, actionable steps for creating sustainable work rhythms and decision-making processes. With its focus on achievable improvement and educator wellbeing, this book promises to be an invaluable resource for school leaders seeking to cultivate more-effective and balanced educational environments.

Teacher Wellbeing $39.95

If you’re an educator you’ll know this: teacher wellbeing has never been more important. And yet, this complex issue is often misunderstood, leading to band-aid solutions that don’t address the root cause or inspire long-term change. In this go-to guide for teachers and leaders, Amy Green provides inspiration and practical tools to unpack the many facets of teacher wellbeing. She explores the purpose of teacher wellbeing; where we’ve gone wrong in tackling issues such as burnout and stress; and what we can do to build teacher capacity and enhance school systems to support teacher wellbeing. Amy believes we all play a part in writing a better story for our teachers. With awareness and knowledge we can move beyond tokenistic activities to long-term, embedded, sustainable solutions. In these pages you will find a deeper, richer, more holistic approach to improving wellbeing. It’s a book that will inspire the real conversations we so desperately need. Together, we can bring about transformation far beyond what we imagine.

Wellbeing Leadership $39.95

It’s time to lead a wellbeing revolution in education. Staff wellbeing is now the number-one priority for many schools across the globe. As leaders, we know this is a positive shift; yet many of us feel ill-equipped and under-resourced to lead the change we know is needed. Wellbeing Leadership, Amy Green’s follow-up book to Teacher Wellbeing, provides guidance and inspiration to foster a thriving school culture. In its pages Amy unveils four essential qualities for a wellbeing-centred workplace, and eight characteristics that empower staff to feel, work, team and lead well. This book is more than just a guide; it’s a call to action. Amy invites you to rethink everything – from systems and processes to beliefs and assumptions. She encourages bold, brave action and leveraging the untapped power within your school setting. Be prepared to question, innovate and sometimes defy the status quo. This isn’t just about wellbeing; it’s about the revolutionary shift needed in our schools to truly support staff and students.

So You Want to Be a Principal $44.95

“The role of independent school principal is a complex and demanding one ... it is one of the most noble and fulfilling roles that anyone could attain.” Dr Paul Teys shares insights gleaned over four decades of teaching, and two decades of principalship in P–12 independent schools in this engaging book. Knitting together his doctoral research and extensive lived experience in the world of Australia’s independent schools, Dr Teys lays down a path for aspiring and early-to-mid career principals to take the next exciting steps in their careers. Providing the latest information and guidance on what it is really like to be a principal of a school these days, Teys offers a glimpse into a world which is not often understood by those, not in the hot seat. Real examples help to illustrate the complex layers associated with leading a school and becoming its CEO. With an earnest combination of strategic focus and personal anecdote, So you want to be a principal is a must-read for the next generation of independent school principals.

The Connection Curriculum $39.95

The Connection Curriculum challenges the status quo in education, arguing that a lack of genuine connection is harming students and communities. Drawing on extensive research, Matt Pitman explores the essential role of connection in fostering academic achievement and student wellbeing. Through candid reflections and practical insights, educators are invited to rethink traditional approaches and embrace sustainable strategies for building whole-school connectedness. Divided into three parts, this book delves into understanding connection, building sustainable practices and maintaining connection over time. It focuses on collective leadership and community engagement to equip educators with the tools and inspiration to embark on the journey towards creating truly connected communities. Whether you are a teacher, school leader or community member seeking to revolutionise your school culture or promote positive change in your organisation, The Connection Curriculum provides the path to make it happen.

The Art of Skimming Stones $39.95

The Art of Skimming Stones challenges conventional leadership frameworks, highlighting a crucial gap in their ability to effectively drive improvement. While many models emphasise individual capacities, they often lack practical guidance on implementing these skills for tangible results. In response, Steven Trotter’s SKIM Model offers a clear pathway for school leaders seeking impactful change. Developed through years of school leadership experience, this model emphasises intentional steps, focusing on subtle yet crucial shifts to engage individuals and foster meaningful improvement. By simplifying the complexity of leadership into actionable steps, SKIM empowers leaders across schools to enact positive change and enabling sustained improvement.

School Philanthropy Handbook $49.95

“Philanthropy responds to a vision more than a need. Its best advocate is the voice.” A strong philanthropic culture enhances a school’s capacity to provide an exceptional education and improve outcomes for all students. The School Philanthropy Handbook explores the role of modern philanthropy in independent schools and provides a framework to establish an enduring culture of giving that will outlast short-term fundraising tactics. Gavan Woinarski’s future-focused model of school philanthropy empowers educational leaders to create a compelling vision and bring people together to connect and inspire prospective donors. He offers practical guidance on how to sharpen funding strategies, unify working groups, develop major gift plans, improve database management and practise good stewardship to secure real philanthropic support. Featuring a wealth of wisdom, tips and templates—with some fascinating stories shared along the way—the School Philanthropy Handbook offers a refreshed look at how schools can embrace a culture of philanthropy that delivers benefits for years to come.

Data-informed Learners $54.95

As educators we all recognise the power of using data to inform our work. A key piece that is often missing is how we engage students in their data story. When we use data with students they become data-informed learners. They have a better understanding of their ability as a learner and can articulate their goals and challenges more clearly. We can support our students through targeted conversations, working in partnership to help them improve. There are three main purposes for using data with students: goal setting, learning dispositions or behaviour, and the quality of student learning or understanding. There are five main modes by which we do this: data walls, success criteria, student-generated assessment, deliberate conversations and data on walls in classrooms. In this book, Dr Selena Fisk unpacks these purposes and modes, giving practical ideas for implementation in schools and classrooms. She offers guidance in having constructive data-informed conversations with students, while building a culture of psychological safety where data use is productive and transformational.

Leading Data-Informed Change in Schools $59.95

Data are everywhere. Countries are compared based on how their students perform in international testing. Schools are compared using standardised testing and school-leaver data. Students are tracked using their individual data and that of their peers. But while there is much already written about leadership styles, leading change and the benefits of being data informed, transferring an understanding of educational research and change leadership literature to a data-informed context is not always easy or seamless. Selena Fisk, EdD, author of Using and analysing data in Australian schools, believes that data should be used to support learning in a way that develops thriving learning communities where students are engaged and motivated. This invaluable resource introduces a 10-step process for leading data-informed change comprising measurable steps for action supported by connections to relevant literature and practical examples showing what the process looks like in schools. Fisk also introduces the 12 key elements required for a leader to prime the environment or build a culture that will enable them to lead data-informed change. Leading data-informed change in schools offers teacher team leaders, principals and administrators a practical guide on how to collect, analyse and use data to help school communities and the students they serve flourish. Download the Appendix with all the templates here.

Classroom Vibe $34.95

Dr Timothy O’Leary is a firm believer that decisions about improvements, whether they be for a teacher or school, need to be based on fact, not fancy. In Classroom Vibe he uses data to demystify why some classrooms are primed for learning while others aren’t and explains why strategies for change in schools often fail. In breaking down the atmosphere of the classroom as experienced by the students – the ‘classroom vibe’ – he gives teachers practical steps for improving theirs. The author argues that when teachers focus their improvement efforts on the ‘vibe’ in each of their classrooms and school leaders focus on supporting their teachers in this endeavour, everyone benefits. He provides a clear framework that highlights how the culture of a classroom can determine whether important teaching strategies will succeed or fail.

Game Changers $59.95

The world is changing – and rapidly. If we want to foster young people’s ability to learn, live, lead and work in that changing world, the way we approach education and leadership in schools must change too. In Game Changers: Leading Today’s Learning for Tomorrow’s World, Philip Cummins and Adriano Di Prato distil years of professional practice and research into a roadmap for leadership that changes the game of school. Centring the character and purpose of leaders in education, Cummins and Di Prato make the case for leadership that strengthens, informs, orientates, focuses, aligns and enriches – courageous leadership that prepares the young people in our care for the world they will inhabit tomorrow. Featuring insights from dozens of game changers innovating the character, purpose and future of education, Game Changers: Leading Today’s Learning for Tomorrow’s World will challenge, inspire and change you.

Now You Are a Principal $42.95

"Educational leadership is an intricate labyrinth, woven with the threads of vision, empathy, resilience, and innovation. It is about creating an environment where every student finds their rhythm and every teacher feels valued and empowered." In Now You Are a Principal, Dr Paul Teys draws on over four decades of educational experience to offer a compelling guide for school leaders. Blending personal anecdotes with practical advice, Teys explores the multifaceted role of a principal, emphasising the creation of a well-being-centred culture, effective school governance, and the delicate balance between innovation and tradition. This insightful book goes beyond mere management techniques, advocating for visionary and empathetic leadership. Dr Teys shares his experiences navigating financial challenges, crises, and an ever-changing educational landscape, highlighting the importance of transparent communication and ethical decision-making. Whether you're a new principal or a seasoned leader, Now You Are a Principal will serve as an invaluable resource as you seek to make a lasting impact in education.

Leading with the Social Brain in Mind $39.95

Leading with the Social Brain in Mind puts relationships front and centre of the important work that educators do. The number and different types of relationships that educators maintain on daily basis can be undervalued and underestimated. Specifically, it challenges system and school leaders to investigate how social brain theory affects the unintended results of collaborative interactions in their own complex organisational environments. Designing environments for collaboration in schools is a complex task and requires a lot of skill, especially in those where many institutional practices and structures are so widely accepted that they are rarely questioned. This book discusses the importance of collaboration in schools, explores silo mentality and asks educators to reflect on how their decisions are impacted by implementation barriers. It is an invaluable read for educators who want to understand associations among cognition, complexity and collaboration in leading change initiatives in schools.

Balance $39.95

The roles and responsibilities of educators grow more complex every year. School leaders and teachers are tasked with creating high-performing schools that foster a culture of trust, collaboration and enquiry for students, parents and staff – all while working within prescribed protocols of safety, equity, transparency and fiscal responsibility. How do they do it? There’s no simple solution, but balance is the key. Andrew Oberthur draws on his rich experience as a principal and teacher to unpack a range of scenarios where a balance must be struck between following the rules and building relationships. His insights on ethical and courageous leadership – including when to follow and when to flex – offer new and experienced educators a proven framework for difficult decision-making. Exploring real-life dilemmas of communication, enrolment, staffing, budgeting, behaviour management, parent-teacher relationships, managing through uncertainty and more, Balance provides tested strategies for navigating the system’s myriad rules and regulations while building positive relationships and improving outcomes for all students.

Between the Idea and the Reality $42.95

Foreword by Emeritus Professor Frank Crowther, AM. Between the Idea and the Reality is a must-read for educational leaders, drawing on the author’s extensive experience in the education sector and as a professional musician to offer universally applicable insights. Through wisdom from researchers, thinkers, and personal experiences, readers will discover why the reasoning behind decisions matters more than the actions that follow. This is not about ready-made solutions but about engaging in deep, reflective thinking before acting. By synthesising ideas from formal research, literature, intuition, and experience, this book provides a rich understanding of decision-making. It aims to equip leaders with a wellspring of wisdom to navigate the complexities of their most demanding responsibility: making effective and thoughtful decisions. Whether you are a principal, head of department, or aspiring leader, the insights in this book will enhance your leadership journey. Some of the anecdotes will touch your heart as well as challenge your intellect, adding a unique dimension that sets this book apart from other educational leadership literature.

The Leadership Game $34.95

School leadership is akin to a gladiatorial arena: it takes courage to enter and compete. Acclaimed principal Dr Damien Barry is here to give you the weapons you need to win every battle. Schools are grappling with staffing issues, youth mental illness and a crowded curriculum against a backdrop of social, political and economic pressures. Shelves are littered with books on leadership, yet few of these books provide practical step-by-step advice. The Leadership Game is your ultimate guide to becoming the leader that every school needs. It will help school leaders of all kinds, as well as teachers aspiring to leadership. How prepared are you to enter the school leadership arena?

The School Leadership Juggle $39.95

In The School Leadership Juggle, Andrew Oberthur offers a lifeline to educators and school leaders grappling with the intricate balancing act of modern primary school education. Drawing upon his extensive background in education, Andrew provides a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted world of primary school leadership, emphasising the practical tools and strategies necessary for success. This book not only equips educators with evidence-based techniques for curriculum design, classroom management, and more but also places a strong emphasis on self-care and collaboration, recognizing the emotional toll of the profession. The School Leadership Juggle is a beacon of guidance and inspiration for anyone navigating the challenging and rewarding journey of primary school education.

Implementing an Effective Teaching Feedback Program $34.95

Providing effective feedback to teachers is critical in improving teaching standards and student performance – but how can we deliver this feedback in a way that does not lead to misunderstanding, animosity or the undermining of teachers’ professionalism? To assist schools in ensuring that any feedback provided to teachers is both accurate and constructive, Implementing an Effective Teacher Feedback Program presents the Pirozzo Process: a step-by-step method for building a sustainable, low-cost teacher feedback program that can be implemented in any school. Each chapter of the book is dedicated to one of the seven steps of the Pirozzo Process: Find your philosophy of leadership Create a Time Allocation Inventory Build knowledge of unit planning Learn to use a variety of thinking tools Develop conflict-resolution skills Launch an effective teacher feedback program Apply four strategies for providing effective feedback

-5% sale

Damien Barry bundle $66.90 $69.90

Grab both of Dr Damien Barry's books. The Teaching Game (published May 2023).The Leadership Game (published May 2024). Only available for online orders.

-7% sale

Amy Green bundle $74.95 $79.90

Get the Amy Green book bundle. Teacher Wellbeing (published November 2022). Wellbeing Leadership (published October 2024). Only available for online orders.

-4% sale

Dr Paul Teys Principal bundle $84.95 $87.90

Get the Dr Paul Teys book bundle. So You Want to Be a Principal (published June 2022) Now You Are a Principal (published October 2024) Only available for online orders.

-3% sale

Selena Fisk bundle $174.95 $179.85

Get Selena Fisk's 3 data books in this bundle. Using and Analysing Data in Australian Schools - 2nd edition by Selena FiskLeading Data-Informed Change in Schools by Selena FiskData-Informed Learners: Engaging Students in Their Data Story by Selena Fisk Only available for online orders.

Search Amba Press

Flat rate shipping

Flexible formats

Based in Australia