Outstanding

What do you get if you blend a downtrodden head teacher, a hostile school inspector, an incompetent reality TV film crew, an ice cream factory and a load of unruly pigs? A hilarious novel from the pen of Steve Baker, a brilliant writer and school behaviour specialist.

Outstanding tells the story of a school inspection set against the backdrop of a struggling school in a semi-rural setting. Educating Norfolk have been invited in to film the cash strapped school and just happen to arrive at the same time as the inspectors - with hysterical results. Meanwhile, a war erupts between the neighbouring ice cream factory and a local pig farmer in which the school is collateral damage. Plus, an idealistic recently appointed inspector, confronted with the reality of his judgements and their consequences, is forced to make a life-changing decision. Steve skilfully weaves these elements together and leads the unhappy protagonists towards a magnificent and heartwarming climax.

As a teacher, behaviour specialist and award winning education non-fiction author, Steve Baker brings insider knowledge and sharp wit to this brilliantly crafted debut novel. Combining satire and social commentary, this hilarious book captures the heart of the chaos and pressures of modern-day teaching.

A highly entertaining read for teachers of all levels seeking a light-hearted escape from the pressures and stresses of their day job.

A hilarious story of a disillusioned head teacher preparing for an OFSTED inspection while coping with an incompetent reality TV crew, truculent teachers and a lot of pigs!

At one level this is a fabulous well-crafted, fast-paced, humorous story filled with intricate twists and turns and very many laugh-out-loud moments. At another level it might reflect what will be left behind if politicians and the media continue to fuel a recruitment and retention crisis in schools, caused by rushed and badly thought-out policies, biased and disparaging media reports, and a deteriorating inspectorate. Either way, please read this book; I loved it.

Will Ryan

Outstanding by Steve Baker is witty, engaging, and blends comedy with biting social commentary. With a cast of vividly drawn characters, Baker captures the chaos and pressures of modern education with humour and insight. The story is both amusing and touchingly poignant, offering thought-provoking moments amidst the hilarity. Educators and former students alike will feel right at home in Baker's world of larger-than-life personalities and brilliantly crafted satire. A thoroughly enjoyable read from start to finish!

Isabella Wallace