The position of Head of Department or Subject Leader is a key middle leadership role. Once described by the National College for Teaching and Leadership as 'the engine room of change' that can transform teaching and learning, department heads play a key part in raising standards and maximising student achievement. This Pocketbook will assist middle leaders in primary and secondary schools to carry out their jobs confidently and effectively. This third edition of the Head of Department's Pocketbook is about cultivating and maintaining a climate for effective teaching and learning, improving management and leadership skills, and incorporating time to reflect. Authors Brin Best and Will Thomas see creativity, alongside building and sharing a vision, as essential components of success. Using a range of cartoons, diagrams, mnemonics and other visual devices, this A6 book is a practical guide to excellent practice for new and existing heads of departments. It covers areas such as goal-setting; creative thinking; upskilling, influencing and motivating colleagues, and performance management. There is also advice on preparing for inspection; effective documentation; planning a budget; working with students, colleagues and parents; managing data; and health and safety issues. At the end of the book a helpful self-evaluation tool enables a closer look at departmental practice which in turn aids the formulation of action plans for improvement.