The A-Z of School Improvement

The A - Z of School Improvement is an authoritative 'can-do' guide to all aspects of improving schools, organised around the 26 letters of the English alphabet.


School improvement is about getting every detail right. The serious school leader pays attention to every aspect of school life and focuses on improving it and aiming for excellence.


One of the marks of the successful school leader is a forensic attention to detail. They will look closely and carefully at every aspect of a particular issue, analyse data, and only agree on interpretations after much consideration. While much of a school leader's work is relational, motivational, and relentless, bringing a forensic mindset to bear ensures that actions towards improvement are focused and thoughtful.

Dr Tim Coulson, CBE, has taught in five London primary schools including his favourite job as headteacher at William Tyndale Primary School. He has worked in the national organisations of the Qualifications and Assessment Authority, National Numeracy Strategy and the founding team of Regional School Commissioners at the Department for Education. He has worked in local authorities in Waltham Forest, Lambeth, Camden, Reading, and Essex where he was director of education. He now is in his second favourite job, leading Unity Schools Partnership, an academy trust in East Anglia of primary, secondary and special schools.