Art of Being a Happy Teacher

Adam Bushnell was a primary-school teacher and is now a published author of both fiction and non-fiction. He works as a visiting author and teacher trainer in the UK and internationally, delivering writing workshops for primary school aged children. He also offers CPD (Continuing Professional Development) for schools and delivers keynote speeches at conferences about reading and writing in education.

"Thought-provoking, authentic and full of memorable reflections. A book every teacher should take the time to read. A strong addition to any CPD list."Andrew Jennings, creator of Vocabulary Ninja"You know when you have read a great book when you start highlighting sentences and even entire paragraphs. I would highly recommend this book for all teachers but also trainee teachers who are in the process of entering a new but challenging profession which at times can be overwhelming. It is clearly written by a professional who still retains a joy for teaching and holds dear the importance of a teacher’s role in the lives of young people. He uses his insight and humour to provide excellent advice that would greatly benefit staff morale and open a path to invaluable discussions."Alison Wilcox, creator of Descriptosaurus"Adam Bushnell understands that the happiest teachers are not those with the lightest workload, but those who remain deeply bothered about the children in front of them. This generous, wise and quietly joyful book reminds us that teaching is ultimately a human endeavour, fuelled by hope, kindness and connection. It will make you pause, smile and rediscover the privilege of the profession. It's exactly the kind of companion teachers need."Hywel Roberts, Author of Botheredness®, Teacher and Speaker“This book is supporting and encouraging, while adding a human, relatable touch of humour. It is open minded and open hearted; a validating, relatable and valuable book which I think is extremely relevant and modern. Teachers will get a lot of value out of this."Marie Parkinson, Author, Yoga Teacher and Life Coach"I absolutely loved it. I think it's exactly what people in the profession need to hear - a reminder to step back and remember how lucky we are to do the job we do, especially when the day-to-day pressures make us lose perspective. It's such a great balance of humour and genuinely inspiring advice.”Rachel Saunders, Assistant Headteacher, Miriam Lord Primary School, Bradford“Offers invaluable advice for new teachers and serves as a great refresher for experienced educators.”Jonathan Haslet, Director of Music, Charterhouse, Lagos, Nigeria“Authentic and relatable. The balance between practical advice and personal reflection made the chapters helpful and encouraging. They offered a sense of reassurance that teachers will love."Rebecca Peel, Teacher, Aycliffe Village Primary School "An inspiring and refreshingly honest book that reminded me why I became a teacher. It encourages educators to shift their perspective, prioritise their wellbeing and find meaning in the moments that matter the most with the children they teach." Ellen Smith, Head of Foundation Stage, Sherborne School, Jeddah (and ex-pupil of Adam Bushnell)“How to Be a Happy Teacher is an inspiring reminder that happiness can be contagious. It encourages educators to create positive ripples that spread through their schools, enriching their own lives, supporting their colleagues and benefitting the pupils.”Rob Smith, CEO and creator of The Literacy Shed

• Introduction 1. Be The Moment 2. Inspire Others 3. The Importance of Food 4. Acceptance 5. Breathe 6. Managing Challenging Behaviour 7. Anger 8. Enjoying The Moment 9. Structure 10. Religion, Spirituality or Nature 11. Swearing 12. Reading (and Writing) 13. Death 14. Taking It Further