Adam Seldon joins us to talk about his new book, Around the World in 80 Schools, which is a lovely surprise!

It could have been a self-indulgent travelogue of schools, but it is far from that.

It is really well crafted around big issues which are all current and relevant, and he is a great travelling companion who is open-minded, questioning and a great learner. All of this makes for a fine book and makes for a great conversation which gets into some of the really big questions about what we can learn and how we can improve education

You can also hear about:

Unfinished Business

Cleverlands by Lucy Crehan

Welcome to a brand new series of EduTalk!

As it remains such an important issue for teachers and school leaders, we wanted to explore the growing issue of industrial action in schools, particularly in light of the recent teacher pay offer. We couldn't think of a better guest to discuss it with than Pepé Di’Isaio, General Secretary of ASCL, the Association of School and College Leaders.

Pepe is typically insightful, open and direct. He brings balance and perspective as well as humour, which is essential when you work in education!

We discuss a range of issues including the fragmentation of education, the impact of falling rolls and budget cuts, the pressure of SEND costs, the challenges around behaviour and more.

We also speculate on how far action will extend into the coming sessions. Pepè gives David lots to think about, and we are sure that he will do the same for all our listeners.

Books mentioned in this episode:

(Inevitably) Unfinished Business

(Recorded during the World Cup, as mentioned by DC)

Paul Banks is our second volunteer for EduTalk, and we are very glad that he has offered to be involved.

When the Government's White Paper states an ambition to have every school in a Trust, we really need to ask what the advantages and disadvantages are.

Paul is an ideal person to have that conversation with, as the Chief Executive Officer of the Chelmsford Learning Partnership. He has the experience, but he also has objectivity, openness and balance.

This makes for a rich conversation full of insight and genuine debate.

Useful Links:

Unfinished Business: The life and legacy of Sir Tim Brighouse