Alistair Smith - trainer, author and consultant, and described as the UK's leading trainer in modern learning methods - has identified and visited the top performing schools to find out what makes them successful. This timely book is aimed at decision makers in schools and gives sound, evidence-based guidance on how to embark on the learning journey and where to head once the journey has begun. For classroom practitioners there is also a great deal of practical guidance. It focuses on: Core Purpose; Outcomes; Independent Learning; Classroom Learning; Curriculum; Professional Development; The school as a Community; and Parents and Carers. This is not intended to be a book of tips. Rather, it is a sound 'how to' guide based on the findings of a detailed study of the best of the best schools and how they have achieved their success.