The Pruning Principle

I love this nuanced and practical book. Simon Breakspear’s The Pruning Principle transforms the way you think about change. Subtraction becomes a catalyst for deeper focus, clarity and actionable impact. Read this short powerhouse of a book and lean into effective change.

Michael Fullan, OC, Professor Emeritus, OISE/University of Toronto

This highly practical book is an important antidote to the add-on mentality that overloads and burns out teachers and leaders.

Distinguished Professor Emeritus Viviane Robinson, University of Auckland

At a time of increasing challenge in schools, this book gives down-to-earth, practical advice to help leaders reduce stress, manage workload and focus on the things that make the most difference. I loved it, and so will school leaders.

Steve Munby, Visiting Professor, University College London

In a professional landscape where every priority feels equally crucial, this book offers simple and effective frameworks for generating positive momentum and helps schools focus on the right work in sustainable ways.

Nicole West, Principal, Inglewood Primary School, Western Australia

Dr. Simon Breakspear is a prominent education expert, researcher, and advisor specializing in practical frameworks for educational leadership improvement. With a PhD from the University of Cambridge, he’s an Adjunct Senior Lecturer at UNSW and advisor to the NSW Department of Education. Creator of the Teaching Sprints method and founder of Strategic Schools, Simon has worked with over 100,000 educators across 10+ countries, translating evidence-based ideas into actionable tools. His background as a high school teacher informs his approach to system-wide educational change.

Michael Rosenbrock is an experienced educational leader and consultant with over 15 years in the field, specializing in physics, science, mathematics, and multimedia. A former Assistant Principal, he has worked with the VCAA and E4L, contributing to curriculum development and educational initiatives. Michael now focuses on improving educational outcomes through implementation support, professional learning facilitation, and tailored in-school assistance across Australia. With a background in aerospace, automotive, and software industries, and degrees in Aerospace Engineering, Business, and Education, he brings a unique perspective to his passionate advocacy for disadvantaged students and those in rural, regional, and remote settings.