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Square Pegs: Inclusivity, compassion and fitting in - a guide for schools
Over the last few years, changes in education have made it increasingly hard for those children who don't 'fit' the system - the square pegs.
Budget cuts, the loss of support staff, an overly academic curriculum, problems in the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system and difficulties accessing mental health support have all compounded pre-existing problems with behaviour and attendance. The 'attendance = attainment' and zero-tolerance narrative is often at odds with the way schools want to work with their communities, and many school leaders don't know which approach to take.
This book will be invaluable in guiding leaders and teaching staff through the most effective ways to address this challenge. It covers a broad spectrum of opportunity, from proven psychological approaches to technological innovations. It tests the boundaries of the current system in terms of curriculum, pedagogy and statutory Department for Education guidance. And it also presents a clear, legalese-free view of education, SEND and human rights law, where leaders have been given responsibility for its implementation but may not always fully understand the legal ramifications of their decisions or may be pressured into unlawful behaviour.
Suitable for all professionals working in education and the related issues surrounding children and young people's mental health, as well as policymakers, academics and government ministers.
Budget cuts, the loss of support staff, an overly academic curriculum, problems in the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system and difficulties accessing mental health support have all compounded pre-existing problems with behaviour and attendance. The 'attendance = attainment' and zero-tolerance narrative is often at odds with the way schools want to work with their communities, and many school leaders don't know which approach to take.
This book will be invaluable in guiding leaders and teaching staff through the most effective ways to address this challenge. It covers a broad spectrum of opportunity, from proven psychological approaches to technological innovations. It tests the boundaries of the current system in terms of curriculum, pedagogy and statutory Department for Education guidance. And it also presents a clear, legalese-free view of education, SEND and human rights law, where leaders have been given responsibility for its implementation but may not always fully understand the legal ramifications of their decisions or may be pressured into unlawful behaviour.
Suitable for all professionals working in education and the related issues surrounding children and young people's mental health, as well as policymakers, academics and government ministers.
- GenresEducationNonfiction
577 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 2, 2023
16 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
April 4, 2023
This book should be required reading for all SENCOs and headteachers in the UK, and even beyond. This book explains why the current school system fails certain children specifically and all children in a broader context.
As a parent of two "square pegs" (both my children are autistic, amongst other needs), this book was a good read. Sometimes though, it was a bit over my head as it is aimed more at educators than at parent/carers. However, one of my "square pegs" has been so let down by the system that she is currently not in school. She was even let down by the special needs school we got her into after she crashed out of mainstream school. I just wish that educators would rethink how they approach children. I wish that politicians would stop trying to fix things by putting arbitrary targets into place. There needs to be a wholesale change in culture. Not every child's success is the same. We need to be able to help all children succeed, even if that means different ways for each child.
I read a review about the book by an educator who claimed that the book was short on solutions. I disagree. Chapter after chapter listed ways in which different educators found ways of making things work for their schools. Yes, it takes effort, often at the beginning, to change mindsets but once in place, things should improve. We need courage to change. We need to educate our educators on what it really means to try to force a square peg into a round hole. But if we can change things, the dividends can be high, less youth unemployment, less people ending up in the criminal justice system, less people too anxious to participate in society. We can do this but it takes a political and social will to change. I dream that my children's children may see that day.
As a parent of two "square pegs" (both my children are autistic, amongst other needs), this book was a good read. Sometimes though, it was a bit over my head as it is aimed more at educators than at parent/carers. However, one of my "square pegs" has been so let down by the system that she is currently not in school. She was even let down by the special needs school we got her into after she crashed out of mainstream school. I just wish that educators would rethink how they approach children. I wish that politicians would stop trying to fix things by putting arbitrary targets into place. There needs to be a wholesale change in culture. Not every child's success is the same. We need to be able to help all children succeed, even if that means different ways for each child.
I read a review about the book by an educator who claimed that the book was short on solutions. I disagree. Chapter after chapter listed ways in which different educators found ways of making things work for their schools. Yes, it takes effort, often at the beginning, to change mindsets but once in place, things should improve. We need courage to change. We need to educate our educators on what it really means to try to force a square peg into a round hole. But if we can change things, the dividends can be high, less youth unemployment, less people ending up in the criminal justice system, less people too anxious to participate in society. We can do this but it takes a political and social will to change. I dream that my children's children may see that day.
March 6, 2023
"Square Pegs - Inclusivity, Compassion, and Fitting In," is a highly anticipated book that has resonated with potential readers in a big way. This comprehensive guide features 38 different chapters and 53 contributors, offering a diverse array of perspectives and experiences.
The book challenges readers to think deeply about the experiences of children who are labeled as "square pegs" in their education. It highlights the need for a supportive and inclusive environment in schools, where every student is given the opportunity to reach their full potential. The contributors to the book show us that by providing such an environment, square pegs are given the chance to thrive and be proud of who they are. This not only benefits the individual pupil but also enriches the entire school community, creating a diverse and accepting atmosphere where everyone is valued for their unique contributions.
One of the strengths of the book is the varied voices it features. The editors do an excellent job of highlighting these experiences through the many personal stories and expert insights, making this book a must-read for educators and school leaders seeking to understand, appreciate, and nourish the unique qualities that make each student special. However, with so many authors offering differing opinions, the book can leave the reader feeling a bit muddled with conflicting advice and viewpoints as well as repetitive chapters.
Despite this limitation, the book offers valuable insights and inspiration for those working in education. It reinforces how it is essential that we prioritise supporting our square pegs in schools and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable education system for all. Equipping teachers with the skills and knowledge to support these pupils can have a lifelong impact on their academic, personal, and professional development.
Furthermore, the book challenges readers to think deeply about the ever-shrinking school budgets, which are responsible for the limited resources and support available to educators. While the book does not offer solutions to this issue, it highlights the need for a deeper exploration of this problem and how it affects our education system.
Overall, "Square Pegs" is a valuable resource for those working in schools. The book provides insightful and empowering perspectives on the experiences and challenges faced by individuals who do not fit ordinary school criteria. It is a thought-provoking read that challenges readers to reconsider their views on inclusivity, compassion, and fitting in. This book is a must-read for educators and school leaders seeking to create a better future for our students.
I have written a full review for schools week which you can read here .
The book challenges readers to think deeply about the experiences of children who are labeled as "square pegs" in their education. It highlights the need for a supportive and inclusive environment in schools, where every student is given the opportunity to reach their full potential. The contributors to the book show us that by providing such an environment, square pegs are given the chance to thrive and be proud of who they are. This not only benefits the individual pupil but also enriches the entire school community, creating a diverse and accepting atmosphere where everyone is valued for their unique contributions.
One of the strengths of the book is the varied voices it features. The editors do an excellent job of highlighting these experiences through the many personal stories and expert insights, making this book a must-read for educators and school leaders seeking to understand, appreciate, and nourish the unique qualities that make each student special. However, with so many authors offering differing opinions, the book can leave the reader feeling a bit muddled with conflicting advice and viewpoints as well as repetitive chapters.
Despite this limitation, the book offers valuable insights and inspiration for those working in education. It reinforces how it is essential that we prioritise supporting our square pegs in schools and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable education system for all. Equipping teachers with the skills and knowledge to support these pupils can have a lifelong impact on their academic, personal, and professional development.
Furthermore, the book challenges readers to think deeply about the ever-shrinking school budgets, which are responsible for the limited resources and support available to educators. While the book does not offer solutions to this issue, it highlights the need for a deeper exploration of this problem and how it affects our education system.
Overall, "Square Pegs" is a valuable resource for those working in schools. The book provides insightful and empowering perspectives on the experiences and challenges faced by individuals who do not fit ordinary school criteria. It is a thought-provoking read that challenges readers to reconsider their views on inclusivity, compassion, and fitting in. This book is a must-read for educators and school leaders seeking to create a better future for our students.
I have written a full review for schools week which you can read here .
November 22, 2024
so useful when you're supporting a student with EBSA, the guidance in here is truly invaluable.
February 12, 2025
As a parent to two Square Pegs, I had a vested interest in reading this and I found it very interesting. I really recommend that all head teachers read this!
July 30, 2025
good for dipping in and out of
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews