Vic Goddard speaks from the heart but never fails to use his head. The man who defended his school against the tabloid press now tackles those who snipe at headship without understanding its value, its pressures or its rewards. Teachers need to be leaders. Vic shows them how.Gerard Kelly, former editor, TES Working with Vic is a rollercoaster, but one where the designer has missed out the downward bits but has managed to keep in the loops. Vic describes the Passmores' experience and his centrality to it perfectly. This book captures beautifully how Vic Goddard's school works. It is a special community to be part of and I was privileged to play my part.Stephen Drew, head teacher, Brentwood County High School (former deputy head teacher at Passmores Academy) Chronicling his time as a teacher and head teacher, Vic's book gives us a unique insight into his career, the decisions he's made (good and bad) along the way and the reasons behind his ideas and methodology.Vic's absolute love for his job is driven by his belief that every child matters and that the impact education has on that child can be life changing.Tactics on how best to run a school, acknowledging one's strengths and weaknesses, improving your leadership ... this book is a practical guide packed full of personal wisdom.Not only recommended for the teaching profession, but aninspiring read for anyone interested in making the most of their potential.We can all learn something from Vic Goddard.David Clews, head of documentaries, TwoFour Any teacher wavering over whether or not to take the next step to becoming a school leader will get a confidence boost from Vic Goddard.As well as providing insight into the school that was the stage for Educating Essex, Vic makes an entertaining case for head teachers to model themselves on a rather different TV success: the celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay (though, hopefully, without quite as much swearing).Michael Sha
