Ahead of the Class : How an Inspiring Headmistress Gave Children Back Their Future

by Marie Stubbs

The transformation that Marie Stubbs effected at St George's, the inner London comprehensive that had gone into steep decline after the murder of its head teacher Philip Lawrence outside the school gates in 1995, was hailed as a national example of good practice. Teachers had been fearful of leaving the staffroom at break; stealing and absenteeism were rife. After fifteen months, children were turning up early to have breakfast and the classrooms were full. This is the story of its remarkable turnaround - through conviction, imagination, old-fashioned discipline and modern management techniques. In an era where so many problems seem intractable, it brings genuine hope.

272 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2003

Reviews

[Gillian · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book about what it takes to turn around a 'failing school' as well as an ode to the power of dedicated teachers and school leadership. An inspirational read.

[Ellie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this while I was at university, and really enjoyed it.

It is a really useful guide if you are teaching in a difficult school or have students who may need extra help concenrateing.

It is also an inspirational story, and one that I feel any one who works in a teaching enviroment should definately read.

[Ros · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read (if slightly congratulatory) makes you wonder about some of the teaching profession thought!