An insightful book for school leaders, it offers support to address the demands and pressures faced by leaders when they come into post and provides top tips for getting a school to ‘outstanding’ status (and keeping it there!). Peter Hughes, the CEO of Mossbourne Federation, explains his journey of breaking barriers in education and running one of the most successful schools in the country. By reflecting on his career, he offers up a blueprint for successful leadership in schools. From recruitment to improving attainment, being mission-driven to knowing when to take risks, the book provides a replicable framework of support for leaders throughout, and gives practical tips and examples of practices that are proven to work. The recurring themes of persistence, risk and motivation inspire the reader to understand what it means to be an exceptional school, and the examples and strategies provided help the reader to walk away with actionable steps to build upon their own leadership skills