An Inspector Recalls: A Tale of Teaching (TESTING)
An insightful look into over 40 years of experience within education, offering practical wisdom, humour, and serious reflections on helping young people learn and achieve.
An Inspector Recalls: A Tale of Teaching
By Dr John Hunter
This book provides a unique insight into over 40 years of working experience across primary, secondary, and special schools and within the education inspectorate. Blending lighthearted moments with serious, practical reflection, it aims to give teachers actionable and inspiring ideas on how young people can best be encouraged to learn and achieve.
📚 Table of Contents & Chapter Overviews
103 Lessons to effective teaching
Chapter 1: The Primary School ▼
Observations and insights into teaching in a primary school, exploring effective classroom practice and fostering the inclusion of every child.
Chapter 2: The Secondary School ▼
Examining adolescent education and strategies to keep teenage students engaged and motivated to achieve.
Chapter 3: The Special School ▼
Deep dive into special needs education, tailored learning strategies, and building supportive classroom environments for students with diverse requirements...A long term view
Chapter 4: The Inspection Phase ▼
A behind-the-scene look at the inspection process and impact on schools and teachers.
Chapter 5: Lessons remembered ▼
Core pedagogical reflections and memorable moments that highlight what truly works when inspiring pupils to realize their full potential.
Chapter 6: Tales out of school ▼
Lighthearted anecdotes, humorous encounters, and personal stories gathered over 40 years across educational institutions.
Chapter 7: Reflections of a teacher’s tale ▼
Concluding thoughts and serious comments offering long-term perspective and practical encouragement for current and future educators.
Critical Praise & Reflections
"Written with honesty, humour and an abundance of professional wisdom, A Tale of Teaching distils a lifetime's experience from Dr John Hunter: educator, school leader and inspector. Practical, insightful, principled and unwaveringly honest, this book of lessons will encourage aspiring, newly qualified and experienced teachers to reflect, persevere and, perhaps above all, to keep every child at the centre."
Professor Noel Purdy OBE
Director of Research and Scholarship
Stranmillis University College, Belfast
"A timely and valuable resource for aspiring teachers, this book offers an authentic insider's perspective on the profession. Rich in practical wisdom and thoughtful insight, it provides an excellent foundation for those starting their teaching career and beginning to shape their professional identity."
Professor Martin Hagan
Head of Education
St. Mary's University College Belfast