The art teacher Andria Zafirakou always broke the rules. In her school, located in a disadvantaged area of central London where over a hundred different languages are spoken, she could immediately perceive the urgent needs: for repairs of school uniforms, for calling social services, for protecting vulnerable teenagers from gangs. And she tailored each of her lessons to her students, passionately believing in the power of art to "unlock" emotional traumas or to give a mute child the confidence they were missing to speak.

Time and again, she proved to be right. So, when in 2018 Andria won the one million dollar cash prize that accompanied her recognition with the Global Teacher Prize, she knew exactly where that money would be directed: back into arts education for all. Because today, the UK government is implementing spending cuts and changes to the curriculum that are destroying arts education, while its refusal to address the more serious threats faced by children – online bullying, gang violence, hunger, and deprivation – pushes teachers to take on the role of protector and guardian on the front lines.

Andria's story serves as a unifying call to awakening that reveals the true picture of students' lives today; at the same time, in a way that cannot help but move us, it connects us with the extraordinary people shaping the next generation.

“Warm, honest, and full of passion. Andria Zafirakou is here to tell us how things are in British schools, and what those who are born teachers can do about it.” Kate Clanchy, author of Some Kids I Taught and What They Taught Me

“Zafirakou’s generosity creates a ray of hope in a world that at times can feel hopeless and dark.” Guardian

“Painfully human... Sharply wise... Unmissable.” Michael Attenborough CBE

“A magical blend of faith and compassion.” Financial Times

“Andria Zafirakou should be an inspiration for everyone.” Inews

“It should be required reading for all new teachers.” Dr. Anne Bamford, Professor, OB

“It has been a long time since I read a book that brought tears to my eyes so often.” Observer

“A source of inspiration. One might call it good teaching; but it seems to be love.” Evening Standard