School leadership is the best job in the world, despite being frustrating, exhausting and at times utterly bamboozling. We are required to change our focus frequently and immediately, planning for the next five years one minute, dealing with the next five seconds the next. We manage multi-million-pound budgets and we pick up crisp packets. We live a life of constant contrasts, meeting hurtling deadlines, solving inscrutable riddles, experiencing profound joy and also heartbreaking disappointment. From time to time, we look up from our work and realise how very privileged we are to work in such an important, rewarding, valuable role.

The A-Z of Secondary Leadership considers how we approach leadership in secondary schools, from the moment of arrival in a new post to the exploration of further possibilities. It covers creating a culture, recruiting and retaining the best staff, encouraging cognitive diversity, working with stakeholders, leading in the community and, perhaps most importantly, how to look after yourself as you take on a very challenging role.

Combining broad knowledge of the education system with a clear-headed assessment of the challenges faced by schools and some practical tips for successful leadership, this book is essential reading for aspiring, recently appointed and more experienced secondary school leaders. It is filled with pragmatism, humour, energy and advice. Taking a detailed yet down-to-earth approach to leadership theory and practice, Andy Hunter considers the various demands placed upon secondary school leaders and shares the insights and experiences that he has gained on his journey from supply teacher to executive head.