A JOURNEY TO AND BEYOND THE BLACKBOARD

Of the very many of Kim’s words which are worth tarrying over is a John Maxwell quote- ‘A Leader is one who knows the way….goes the way…and shows the way.’ I recognised all those qualities in Kim when I had the chance to briefly work alongside him, and his leadership at NAHT resonates still, so I was intrigued to follow the journey of his life which had made him the leader, and the man, I met. His story is told with, above all, a deep humanity and humour, it is as instructive as it is engaging, and rings throughout with the clear tolling of a call to ethical practice which at its core is the call to champion the future for our children. Not just in words, but in grounded praxis. Whether you are a school leader weathered well, or just venturing into leadership, Kim’s book will have words for you as he helps you to know your own way, to go that way with humanity and humour and to show others how to walk to a better future for all our children.

Once started, I was hooked and just kept reading wondering where he was off to next. Quite remarkable what teaching and support staff have to work through to engage the most behaviourally challenged of pupils. The author is to be commended for his resilience in such ‘action’ and the dividends are many in the changes that follow for those in his charge. Such an interesting insight into the specialist side of education. An enjoyable book to read.

I had the privilege to meet Mr Kim in Foshan (China) years ago when he was developing a link with Qicong School. Such an inspirational school leader and one who was so focussed on giving the best to his students. His book told me so much more about him and how he came into education. A lovely read and one with many twists and turns. I am very proud to have met him and know of his enduring smile.

Hilarious, profound, inspiring and heart warming account of the author’s life journey to headship. In his journey from boy to headteacher Kim Johnson flooded the toilets so they froze and school was closed ; killed the housemaster’s strawberries ; kidnapped a fellow teacher from a school camp ; encouraged an OFSTED Inspector to give an accurate report while sat above a hand grenade ; educated a Government Minister with what was a clear put down ; deemed dangerous for having a memory of what LA officials said and hoped nobody would remember ; and, encouraged English to be spoken with reference to northern pronunciation …. and throughout all this and much more he did everything for the children & young adults in his schools without a second thought to himself . What a great read about a quite remarkable fellow.

Read it and enjoyed following quite a journey by the author. So believe it should be on a ‘must read’ for those entering teaching and those looking to move into leadership. Lots to think about for me now as I’ve been moved by this book.

Just been in touch with Kim via his webpage to say how much I enjoyed his book… what an eye opener it is … and how it speaks to all looking to become a school leader or are already in post. A great read for us all to enjoy!

I so enjoyed reading this book. Years ago I couldn’t cope with the pressures of headship and chucked in the towel. Had this book been around I’d have stuck to the task and probably won through. I take my hat off to the author. He deserves the recognition for his achievements and the honesty he shares in his excellent book.

I first met the author when working at Local Authority level and then later when at a DFE event. Always found him knowledgeable and forthright wanting to ensure his pupils got the best provision and his staff were safe. His turn of phrase could ruffle feathers yet it was professional in tone requiring funding and duty of care to be paramount to ensure his school achieved great things. I always admired him and after reading his book do more so now. Can’t help but feel it should be a ‘must read’ for those in office at LA & DFE level to see how they (we) are not an obstruction to such as Kim in their strive to provide top quality SEND education.

Well that’s confirmed it in my mind …. The pathway to headship and the challenge of then performing the role can be a trial and a joy. Well done to the author for his honesty and revelations. A great read!

Recommended by a teacher colleague …. And thoroughly enjoyed. My word … so much packed into 39yrs in education and a wealth of tips and real insights into Special Education. Had always thought the role and life of a school leader was a tough one and can now say having read this book it certainly is challenging. Just have to read it again to capture all the detail as there’s so much to take in and learn from.

As a parent it’s always interesting to see what makes teachers tick in the performance of their role. This book gives such an insight and makes for a pleasing read.

Met him once at a Conference and found him to be a credible and confident exponent of equality of opportunity for the disadvantaged and damaged souls in Special Schools especially those with emotional, behavioural and mental health challenges. His book reveals a passionate determination to make a difference and encourage all in his charge to enjoy learning and aim high. Saddened to note it once broke him… impressed he came back from that and made such an impact with what seems joy in his heart. Excellent read!

As I continue with my own aspirations of promotion to the leadership team I thought this book would be an interesting read. I was not disappointed at all. Far from it as I now know that the implicit dedication to the role and personal sacrifices likely to be made are going to be significant. Reading the author’s journey it’s clear that a never give up attitude is required and having a good team around you is key to success. Well done to Kim Johnson for his own hard work and for writing his book. It is a must read for those such as me looking to secure a headship in the future.