Books by Tony Birch

This book explores the foundations of modern primary education and the role that society and culture has had in shaping it. Dismantling assumptions about what education has been or 'should' be, Tony Birch outlines what the core principles are that underpin high quality education to provide a holistic approach. Supporting leaders, practitioners and those studying primary education, this book: - Explains key issues in primary education and what drives them- Highlights the importance of pedagogy and leadership to enrich education- Builds on the existing frameworks in schools to encourage an holistic approach- Emphasises the importance of seeing the range of a child's potential outside of academic expectations Understanding Primary Education as a Whole is an essential resource for leaders and those studying primary education who want to understand the changing nature of their schools, classrooms and children. "All of those leading primary education at whatever level can learn from Tony Birch's analysis of history and competing influences on primary education. This book is systematic, comprehensive and thoughtful."Dr. Alison Borthwick, UK and International Freelance Education and Mathematics Consultant"As well as being wise, this book is also engaging, accessible and essentially practical. Read it!"Professor Emeritus David Hopkins, www.profdavidhopkins.com"Tony reminds us of the complexity and challenge of primary education, the battles that have been fought around it and the changes in systems and practice that have occurred as a consequence."Michael Tonge MA, Chief Executive Prestolee Multi Academy Trust, UKTony Birch is Director of Birch Education and a Senior Associate of the Association of Education Advisers. He established Bolton Council's award-winning Curriculum ICT team, was Head of School Improvement and also Assistant Director responsible for Education and Learning.

Outstanding new fiction from the Miles Franklin-shortlisted author of BloodIn this breathtaking new work, Tony Birch affirms his position as one of Australia''s finest writers of short-form fiction.Using his unflinching creative gaze, he ponders love and loss and faith. A trio of amateur thieves are left in charge of a baby moments before a heist. A group of boys compete in the final of a marbles tournament, only to find their biggest challenge was the opponent they didn''t see coming. Two young friends find a submerged car in their local swimming hole and become obsessed by the mystery of the driver''s identity. Across twelve blistering stories, The Promise delivers a sensitive and often humorous take on the lives of those who have loved, lost and wandered.