How can we really look after ourselves and our staff teams in light of everything we face? What if people really valued staff well-being rather than staff welldoing? Could Do Better explores the myriad demands upon those working in schools, acknowledging the ‘too much' and 'not enoughs’ of the climate in which staff work, and considering the impact this has on wellbeing throughout the school.
The book introduces the RESET acronym, which provides a framework for meaningful change: Remember and Reimagine – Examine and Evidence – Safely Speak Up and Share – Equip and Empower – Task and Try One Thing. Each theme inspires hope, encourages self-reflection and equips the reader with practical strategies to support their school journey. Throughout, the author also draws upon her own experiences, as well as a variety of first-hand case studies, to tackle topics from shame and expectations to brave leadership and creating a culture of value.
With an interactive format and space for the reader to reflect throughout, the book is an essential tool to support staff to know their value and to put practices in place to improve their working lives. It will be key reading for teachers in both primary and secondary settings, as well as school leadership teams and those in pastoral roles.
Table of Contents:
How to Use this Book
Prologue
Acknowledgements
Introduction
PART ONE: THE GOOD STUFF
Chapter One - The Good Things
Interlude - Treat Yourself
Reflection activities – Remember & Reimagine
Reflection Page – You are Remarkable
PART TWO: THE HARD STUFF
Chapter Two – The Not Enoughs We Face
Interlude - Go Grab a Cup of Tea
Reflection activities – Examine & Evidence (i)
Reflection Page – You Are Enough
Chapter Three – The Too Much We Face
Interlude – Take a Break
Reflection activities - Examine & Evidence (ii)
Reflection Page – You are of Such Great Worth
Chapter Four – Dig Deeper
Interlude – Chat To a Friend
Reflection activities – Safely Speak Up & Share (i)
Reflection Page – You are Seen
PART THREE: DOING BETTER WITH ALL THE STUFF
Chapter Five – Let’s Talk About Shame
Interlude - And Breathe
Reflection activities – Safely Speak Up & Share (ii)
Reflection Page – You are Not Alone
Chapter Six – Enough is Enough
Interlude – Step Outside
Reflection activities -Equip & Empower
Reflection Page – You Matter
Chapter Seven – Brave Leadership and The Way Ahead
Interlude – Rest
Reflection activities – Task & Try One Thing
Reflection Page – You Make a Difference
Conclusion
References
Additional Resources
Index
About the Author
About the Author :
Pippa McLean has been a teacher and SENDCO for many years, working in a number of mainstream primary schools across the South-East of England during her career. She has written regularly for publications including nasen Connect and has a passion for wellbeing and inclusion. Pippa loves investing in children and families and encouraging others to do the same, something that is seen in her commitment to school communities and other local community projects.
Review :
‘This is not a book that you sit down and passively read, and that’s a good thing. In some ways this book reads you! It is a deep conversation with a caring friend. Pippa McLean is empathetic; she understands teaching and education. So you will be affirmed but you will also be asked challenging questions. More importantly, this is not just a one-way conversation; the book is packed with reflection activities to help you to develop and grow.
’Chris Eyre: Teacher, examiner, CPD trainer, author of The Elephant in the Staffroom
‘I was deeply moved by so much shared in this book. It serves as a vital resource for educators navigating the complexities of teaching in today’s environment. The exploration of wellbeing, shame, and the overwhelming expectations is a critical reminder that pursuing outcomes is a path that must be trodden carefully. Pippa inspires a shift towards prioritising our own wellbeing alongside that of our students, empowering us to embrace our roles with passion and resilience. A must-read for all educators!’
Andy Sammons, Head of Teaching & Learning, Bedrock Learning and author of The Compassionate Teacher
‘Drawing on the author’s experience, “Could Do Better” reflects the realities of life in British schools and the challenges to staff wellbeing. Pippa gives the reader the chance to consider their own wellbeing with reflective practices and strategies which are universally applicable, whilst at the same time recognising the hard realities of boundaries being crossed and workload tipping the work-life balance. An essential addition to the discussion around staff wellbeing for teachers and leaders.’
Andrew Cowley, MHWB coach and author
‘Pippa has perfectly captured the essence of working in education today; the feelings of inadequacy, the culture of scarcity, the burden of accountability, and the relentless pace. Yet, this book offers a beacon of hope for educators and a reminder that these are a reflection of the system, not the individual. With its expert insights and reflective activities, it is a must-read for anyone committed to fostering a supportive educational environment for all.’
Victoria Harrison, Teacher and Curriculum Consultant
‘Pippa’s book provides some excellent opportunities for school staff to reflect on their wellbeing. Often, we only think about our own wellbeing when things are feeling tough, but Pippa’s book can be helpful to use before this point. Its reflective exercises can help to develop self-awareness, reduce shame when we are struggling, and show how we can use self-compassion and the very practical ‘RESET’ model to create a space for calm during the turbulence of the school year.’
Amy Sayer (FCCT), author, wellbeing coach and Lead Associate for Diverse Educators
