"I keep this book by my desk at work. It's an infinitely reassuring and practical reminder that there is no silver bullet for communication success in schools, and that we need to keep constantly learning and reflecting on our practice. It's chock full of exercises that can be completed, not just by individuals, but by teams to reflect upon and improve communication with stakeholders in a ways which avoids defensiveness and reminds us that we are all in it together. I especially love the reference to keeping your 'North Star' your vision and values - at the centre of all communication. In a climate in which recruitment and retention, not just of staff but of students, is a major issue for many schools, it offers some brilliant advice in this area - advice which far surpasses any other I have come across. Highly recommended!"

Dr Emma Kell

“How to Build Communication Success in your School” by Karen Dempster and Justin Robbins is most definitely a book for our times. Both authors, experts in communication, share their expertise in a book that is both informative and practical. It is clear that they understand the complex educational landscape in which schools now operate. Their book provides a useful framework for helping school leaders understand how to navigate this landscape through improved communications. Understanding that in schools relationships are everything, Dempster and Robbins show how good communication with all stakeholders can help school leaders build relationships that will ultimately lead to successful outcomes for everyone. Highly recommended!"

Viv Grant

"From a teaching angle, this book is a gem. Filled with insights into different communication practices for different purposes, it serves as a guide to support more effective and transparent communication in schools. From a parental angle, this book is incredibly valuable, as it has been created as a toolkit for teachers to bring parents more easily into the school community - something often overlooked by schools. Using a wide range of research and (most importantly) conversations with teachers, the book has helpful tips, quick guides, in-depth studies and a range of approaches to use.

A quick read, it is not only a useful book to keep on the shelf but it should perhaps serve as a "must-read" for all school leaders and trainee teachers to support more effective and engaging communication within their schools. Well worth the read."

Rachel Musson

"A small and easy-to-read book whose size belies how important a contribution it can make to your school. Reinforcing the idea that the best schools (in terms of student happiness, not just academic success) are the one that have their communication right, the book is full of practical advice and tips to make sure a school communicates the right way at the right time - and does so consistently. Should be in every school leader's desk drawer."

Independent Thinker

"A really useful and accessible guide to improving school communication. Lots of helpful tips and strategies, with quick wins as well as tools for longer term planning. A must for every school leader that wants to know how to communicate in the most effective way with staff, students and parents. Five stars...."

Lisa Croke