ABSTRACT
This chapter explores how key issues in the teaching of English are subject to constant change and how important it is for the subject leader to be clear about their own pedagogy. It focuses on one aspect of English; and explores how different media outlets report on English education and considers why government reports and guidance require scrutiny. The chapter discusses the importance of managing changes in English education through a pragmatic approach. It considers how the effective English subject leader considers the needs of their school within the broader context of government policy and guidance. The chapter reflects on how this current 'hot topic' serves to illustrate how the English subject leader must navigate their school through significant externally driven change. The good English subject leader is critical of data and should always consider the reason why class, school and national data present a certain picture.
