I’m an Author and Speaker who is championing staff wellbeing in schools, speaking of hope and value for all.
About Me
Pippa McLean brings years of experience, through her career as a primary teacher and SENCO* in mainstream schools across London and the South-East, to inspire teachers and support staff through her writing and speaking.
*Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator
NEW BOOK OUT NOW
How can we really look after ourselves and our staff teams in light of everything we face? What if people really valued staff wellbeing rather than staff well-doing?
Could Do Better explores the myriad demands upon those working in schools, acknowledging the ‘too much' and 'not enoughs’ of the climate in which staff work, and considers the impact this has on wellbeing throughout the school.
The book introduces the RESET acronym, which provides a framework for meaningful change: Remember and Reimagine – Examine and Evidence – Safely Speak Up and Share – Equip and Empower – Task and Try One Thing. Each theme inspires hope, encourages self-reflection and equips the reader with practical strategies to support their school journey. Throughout, Pippa draws upon her own experiences, as well as a variety of first-hand case studies, to tackle topics from shame and expectations to brave leadership and creating a culture of value.
With an interactive format and space for the reader to reflect throughout, the book is an essential tool to support staff to know their value and to put practices in place to improve their working lives. It is valuable reading for teachers in both primary and secondary settings, as well as school leadership teams and those in pastoral roles.
Could do Better
Book endorsements
“I was deeply moved by so much shared in this book. It serves as a vital resource for educators navigating the complexities of teaching in today’s environment…Pippa inspires a shift towards prioritising our own wellbeing alongside that of our students, empowering us to embrace our roles with passion and resilience. A must-read for all educators!”
— Andy SammonsHead of Teaching & Learning, Bedrock Learning and author of The Compassionate Teacher
“Pippa has perfectly captured the essence of working in education today…With its expert insights and reflective activities, it is a must-read for anyone committed to fostering a supportive educational environment for all.”
— Victoria HarrisonTeacher and Curriculum Consultant
“Drawing on the author’s experience, Could Do Better reflects the realities of life in British schools and the challenges to staff wellbeing. Pippa gives the reader the chance to consider their own wellbeing with reflective practices and strategies which are universally applicable, whilst at the same time recognising the hard realities of boundaries being crossed and workload tipping the work-life balance. An essential addition to the discussion around staff wellbeing for teachers and leaders.”
— Andrew CowleyMHWB Coach and Author
“Pippa’s book provides some excellent opportunities for school staff to reflect on their wellbeing. Often, we only think about our own wellbeing when things are feeling tough, but Pippa’s book can be helpful to use before this point. Its reflective exercises can help to develop self-awareness, reduce shame when we are struggling, and show how we can use self-compassion and the very practical “RESET” model to create a space for calm during the turbulence of the school year.”
— Amy Sayer(FCCT), Author, Wellbeing Coach and Lead Associate for Diverse Educators
AVAILABLE TO BUY
The Pocket Diary of a SENCO
The Pocket Diary of a SENCO spans a typical school year and includes hopeful and often humorous diary entries that share the authentic aspirations, joys and frustrations of championing inclusion and working in the role of a SENCO.
Grounded in real-life experiences and day-to-day practice, Pippa describes the experiences of a SENCO and the reality of SEND provision in school, drawing out the personal characteristics and values that schools can foster to support inclusive practice and nurture positive relationships between children, parents and colleagues.
Written in conversational style, this essential pocket diary captures the reality of SEND provision in schools and will be relatable to many. It is valuable reading for SENCOs, teachers, support staff and trainees who wish to enrich their learning around inclusive practice and engage reflectively within their busy lives.
Speaking Events
20 - 23 March 2023
Living Books Stream
‘The Pocket Diary of a SENCO: An Honest Guide to the Aspirations, Frustrations and Joys of Championing Inclusion in Schools’
Further Writing
2021 - 2022
March 2021 - Be a goldminer and a keeper of treasure
May 2021 - Be a person of hope
July 2021 - Be persistent
September 2021 - Be a companion
November 2021 - Be a celebrator of big and little things
January 2022 - Be a learner