Product reviews for Leadership for Sustainability

Leadership for Sustainability: Saving the planet one school at a time by David Dixon is an inspiring read, presenting a refreshing insight into a whole-school approach to tackling the challenges presented by climate change.

The book offers practical advice for leaders in schools. Central to the narrative is the emphasis on leadership, not the sort that seeks popularity in the form of ‘hero’ leadership but that which seeks to serve – ‘servant leadership’.

The focus on sustainability acting as a catalyst for community enhancement was refreshing and presented in an easy-to-read form. The focus on an inclusive way in which we come to respect our planet and do something about the challenges we face to conserve our environment was also described in an easy-to-digest way.

Central to the success of engaging with the challenges of climate change by a school is the determination of the leadership and the adoption of interdisciplinary, multi-disciplinary and integrated learning approaches.

The author provides a rich range of examples and approaches to making the task of embedding sustainability in schools something that is not tagged on but integrated through the learning experience of the child, so it becomes the norm into adult life. The author’s reference to his grandmother acting as a role model highlights that we all have a role to play in growing our children to become active citizens. The author offers a range of personal experiences and insights making for authenticity.

‘Small steps’ and ‘results’ offer reassurance and makes for manageability by schools which are often under resourced and under pressure. ‘Authentic leadership’ was also a strong strand, signalling that these leaders know their weaknesses and strengths, transforming ‘those values and beliefs into tangible suitability reality’ (p. 34).

Recognising the regulator, Ofsted, as another a vehicle to embed sustainability was helpful.