“Congratulations Andrew. A strong resource for parents and teachers! I’ll certainly be recommending it on my school travels.’ ‘Madonna King -Author, MC, Media Trainer, Journalist, Chair of Qld Anti-Bullying Task-force
“Looks to be very informative and great that it is based on practical experience and not just abstract theory. A must read for parents as they are their children’s first teachers.” Dr Kevin Donnelly AM – Senior Research Fellow at Australian Catholic University
“The author’s approach ………. is refreshing.” Clive Dixon – Freelance Educator/ Former Regional Director, Dept Education, Training and Employment QLD.
“…….. essential and practical tools for both teachers and parents to communicate effectively.” SD (Parent)
“Definitely aids in achieving the purpose of a joint journey.” CA (Teacher)
“…. a very enjoyable, well-grounded read appropriate for every member of the school community….” LR-J (School Board Chairman)
Praise for Balance
This book puts all the everyday decisions of a school leader into a real and raw perspective we can all relate to. I wish I had the book when I first became a principal. It is so easy to get caught in the emotion of a situation, especially when it is delicate and involves parents or staff. Andrew provides realistic scenarios and level-headed strategies to deal with situations where the question is: “Do I stick to protocol, or do I build a relationship here?”.
Gabrielle Hansen, Head of Department – Curriculum
The spread of chapters and topics is a wonderful resource for principals working through the five P’s process and offers a reaffirmation of current principal practices that may spark change in future practice. The insights shared in this book support both new and experienced principals to navigate their daily work. The scenario reflection section at the end of each chapter is a good idea for leaders. Also, the three questions for productive parent-teacher communication is a great tool for school leaders.
Kurt Rose, principal
Andrew Oberthur has done it again. He has taken on one of the world’s most complex and challenging human dynamics: how do we manage the relationships of teachers, parents and primary school students to produce a significant improvement in our educational outcomes? The book is enriched with real-life examples from day-to-day happenings of what does work, what could work and what doesn’t work that leave the reader thinking, “Oh, yeah. That’s obvious; yet I would never have thought of it”.
Allan Parker OAM, behavioural scientist and international negotiator
This book is a worthwhile resource and of particular interest to early career principals as they navigate the complex world of principalship. Andrew has thought of many scenarios which are pertinent and relevant in the decision-making processes of school leaders.
Kerry Latimer, retired principal
Andrew Oberthur hits some of the major themes that school leaders face in finding the balance between following the rules and adopting a level of flexibility. I also feel that he cautions, covertly, regarding the things you can’t be flexible around and why. Andrew finds a good balance (no pun intended) between writing about state and independent systems. Finally, I think the question he poses early, “Does this improve the learning and wellbeing of students, staff and families?”, provides a solid ethical and moral foundation on which principals and school leaders can base their decisions.
Ray Boyd, principal
There are plenty of voices these days telling principals how to do their work. Part of the problem is they come from those who have never done it. Andrew Oberthur is definitely not one of these. Years of practice, deep reflection, and commitment to the joy of leading communities of learning energises his writing. It’s not starry-eyed, though, and he broaches the challenges and rewards of school leadership. Find a comfy chair … you’ll enjoy the read.
Dr Paul Kidson: Australian Catholic University
Andrew paints a realistic picture of the scope and challenges for school based leadership teams. At the same he offers clear sound advice and direction for those who are, or aspiring to be, leaders.
Phil McGreevy: Instructional Coach
I found reading this book very useful in better understanding the work undertaken by school leadership and teachers. I would recommend this book to all those seeking a deeper understanding of how a school operates, the challenges facing school leadership and teachers and potential solutions for those challenges.
Alanna Bolger: Parent
Andrew has given us an unflinching look at the challenges faced by teachers and school leaders in today’s educational system. He states the obvious: “The current model is NOT realistic and NOT sustainable” and he offers honest, practical solutions for each challenge. While some of these solutions can only be provided by outside authorities (for example, funding to hire more teachers and other personnel and raising teacher pay), other solutions are within the control of school leaders. Andrew asks the tough questions and doesn’t shy away from offering bold solutions. We need more books like this one!
Willy Wood: Educational Consultant – United States
