Teacher Autonomy

Where Has It Gone and Why We Need It Back

By Sophie Smith-Tong

Teacher Autonomy: Where Has It Gone and Why We Need It Back by Sophie Smith-Tong

About the Book

Explore the critical importance of teacher autonomy in modern education. This book examines how teacher autonomy has diminished over time and why restoring it is essential for effective teaching and learning.

About the book

What Reviewers Are Saying

"What an absolute masterpiece. Sophie has collected and collated everything possible in a really digestible way. It's magnificent!!"

Tina Farr, Head Teacher, St Ebbe's Primary School, Oxford

"Teacher Autonomy is a masterclass in balancing research with the voices and experiences of teachers. A must-read for policy-makers, school leaders and teachers all around the world!"

Adrian Bethune, Founder of Teachappy, Teacher, Author and Speaker

"This is a brilliant book — comprehensive, powerfully written with numerous case-studies and commentaries. It deserves to be read by everyone who cares about the future of education, our children and their teachers."

Sue Roffey, Honorary A/Professor UCL, Director of Growing Great Schools Worldwide
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Book Launch Night

A wonderful evening at BookBar, London on 3 February 2026, celebrating the release of Teacher Autonomy with friends, colleagues, and everyone who made this possible.

Sophie Smith-Tong at the Teacher Autonomy book launch at Book Bar, London Guests at the Teacher Autonomy book launch at Book Bar, London
Read about the evening

Discover Your Autonomy Level

Curious about how much autonomy you have in your teaching role? Take our quick quiz to discover your autonomy level and see where you stand.

Take the Quiz