The Art of Skimming Stones
Leading Sustained Improvement in Schools
Steven Trotter
In The Art of Skimming Stones, Steven Trotter draws on years of experience as an educational leader to present the SKIM Model, a strategic framework for driving meaningful, sustained improvement in schools. Trotter critiques traditional leadership models that often prioritise individual competencies without providing a structured approach for applying these skills in real-world school settings. His SKIM Model, developed through hands-on practice, addresses this gap by focusing on intentional, incremental steps that empower leaders to enact lasting change.
The book is praised for balancing theoretical insights with practical guidance, making it particularly useful for school leaders at all levels. It emphasises collaborative leadership, supporting leaders in creating environments where team engagement, improvement, and student outcomes flourish. Trotter’s accessible writing style and real-life examples make complex leadership principles actionable, allowing leaders to implement changes that resonate throughout the school community.
This book is highly recommended for principals, administrators, and educational leaders who aim to refine their leadership practices and inspire sustainable improvement within their institutions. With endorsements from education experts, The Art of Skimming Stones is positioned as an indispensable tool for those committed to elevating school performance through well-planned, heart-centred leadership approaches.
This work, suitable for all educational levels, highlights the impact of subtle leadership shifts and offers a clear pathway for fostering a collaborative and positive school culture.
