This highly informative, accessible book will help schools to transform the way they use teaching assistants, focusing on the quality of support rather than quantity, and greatly increasing their positive impact on the progress and attainment of pupils. An essential read for heads and teachers. - Sir John Dunford, Chair of Whole Education ... Read more At their best, teaching assistants transform young lives. This happens when the leadership and management of TAs is excellent. This important book sets out a framework for excellence. It not only explains how achieving excellence takes time, planning, commitment and determination, but also describes good practice case studies throughout. - Marc Rowland, author and Deputy Director, National Education Trust This book is a must read for all school practitioners, including trainee teachers. Based on relevant and recent research, it provides a comprehensive set of ideas for unlocking the full potential of all the adults working with our children. From creating a shared definition of the TA role, to ideas for training and development, this book will not only help ensure children make excellent progress, but also see that TAs feel valued and recognised for the job they do. - Helen Crowther, Deputy Headteacher, Beech Hill School, Halifax The authors frame complex issues in compelling and accessible language [and] translate research findings into practical applications for the classroom. - Michael Giangreco, Center on Disability and Community Inclusion, University of Vermont This book is an invaluable resource for school leaders. Teaching assistants make up a significant proportion of the education workforce and their effective deployment and practice are crucial aspects of school improvement. This book brings together recent national and international research, and provides schools with a systematic process to improve the status, management and impact of its TAs. - Sue Briggs, author and SEND consultant Show Less