So Now You're in Year 9

Subject: Deputy Head / Curriculum Planning / Administration
Level: Secondary
Age Group: 11 - 14
Order Number: 3096

So Now You're in Year 9 is what the author calls a 'short, sharp book' based on his own experiences as a Art Instructor at an Essex Secondary School and his all too vivid memories of soulless work during leaner times. Whilst acknowledging the benefits and value of gainful employment per se it encourages students to focus on the importance of adjusting to a mature approach to study in order to enhance their prospects of meaningful employment.

The story as told by 20 year old Ricky is easily read and suitably punctuated by cartoons. At a time of, possibly, the greatest change in a secondary school pupil's life, this combination of no-nonsense straight talk and uncompromising illustrations will benefit young men and women requiring firm direction and a basic appreciation of what society will expect of them in just three short years time! Most importantly, the descriptions and scenes of classroom high jinx and the incidental characters therein will be familiar to many young readers - allowing them to identify with both real life and its potential pitfalls and the folly of disruptive behaviour. It is hoped that 'So now you're in Year 9' will be used by teachers and mentors as a springboard to a good humoured demonstration and participatory sessions in which appropriate conduct can be practised and enjoyed.