This is the story, both personal and professional, of a teacher and academic studying and reflecting throughout his educational career on key facets of professionalism and core purpose. Important truths emerge about the vital influence of culture, the importance of embracing the big picture of education, and the need to move beyond survival and coping strategies. Essentially this is about the essence of professionalism and the essential need to combine both practical classroom wisdom with theory. Powerful, endearing, and transformational - a compelling read.
Dame Alison Peacock, CEO, Chartered College of Teaching
It might not be a memoir (he says), but it absolutely falls somewhere between a highly illuminative portrait of our greatest educational interactionist and a deeply engaging origin story of a truly unique and wonderful human being. As an avid reader of Andys books for the better part of two decades, I think this is the keystone upon which everything else should be placed. The early career teacher and academic will find incredible wisdom and advice. We somewhat later-stage activists, teachers, wonks, and researchers will find ourselves in the pages, amazed by the lucidity and insight Andy so consistently maintains as we come into contact with the main social theorists and thinkers of our formative years and look upon them with new eyes. It is truly a monumental piece of work and generous contribution to further feed our passion for understanding education. Chapeau, Andy.
David H. Edwards, General Secretary, Education International
As an educator who has relied on Dr Hargreaves scholarship for almost 50 years, The Making of an Educator has given me a renewed sense of pride, optimism, and resolve to take our work to new heights. It is chock-full of reflective insights, coping strategies, and actions to implement. Authenticity comes to mind because Andy has done the work himself as an educator, writer, and world-renowned researcher.Those who know Andys global influence wonder about the experiences that have shaped this educational icon, hoping to replicate those qualities in teacher training and capacity building. We wonder if a replica of research excellence, political acumen, and productivity is possible.This book has provided many innovative ideas and actionable steps to augment our work as practitioners. The three ways forward and deeply reflective analysis of insights gained over a lifetime of innovations have great didactic value. His exhortation to strengthen our core, take out our moral compass, ensure that we stay true to our North Star or Southern Cross, and remember why we chose teaching in the first place is timely as we navigate and learn from major shifts and disruptions.Dr Hargreaves has emboldened us with boundless courage and insights on how to become solution finders who pursue the dreams deferred. He has equipped us to revitalise our equilibrium and pursue our primary mission with courage and determination.
Avis Glaze, International Education Advisor, Former Ontario Education Commissioner
