The education world is suffering from a surfeit of words yet hard-pressed teachers find themselves without the time to read anything at length. Folens has understood this and produced six new titles in its series on primary professional development. Written by different authors, all titles follow a similar format of easily accessible, practical material presented in a range of styles to tempt even the busiest professional. Dotted about the text are wonderful cartoons and illustrations by Eric Jones.

Curriculum Leadership in the Primary School, by Steve Harrison and Ken Theaker, gives practical advice on target-setting, team-building, equal opportunities and effective meetings.

Mike Walton’s Family Literacy and Learning demonstrates the real possibilities of partnerships between schools and family members in numeracy teaching.

Managing Medicines in Schools, by Joe Harvey, offers guidance on conditions and advice for an individual health plan. Colin Newton and Derek Wilson’s Circle of Friends is essentially a workbook designed to support the emotional and social well-being of children. While Able and Gifted Children, by Chris Webster helps the teacher with ideas for extension activities in a range of subjects.

The Deputy Headteacher’s Handbook by Steve and Gill Jorgensen sets out a wealth of advice and steps towards headship.

With photocopiable handouts, sample letters, certificates and self-evaluation proforma, these books would be a welcome addition to any staff library.

Penny Clayton

* The writer is a freelance trainer and education management consultant