Overview

Every generation of Christian school leader stands in the quarry, chisel in hand, cutting stone for something far greater than themselves. Grand Designs: Building Faithful Christian Schools That Endure is a compelling guide for leaders committed to building Christian schools that endure as living communities of faith, formation, and purpose. Dr Darren Iselin and Dr Daniel Pampuch argue that the greatest risk facing Christian schools today is not external pressure but internal drift. When foundational vision fades, a once vibrant community becomes an impressive but empty monument. Structured around four foundation stones of Alignment, Belonging, Excellence, and Imagination, and four dimensions of formation for the next generation, Grand Designs offers both a framework and a call to action for Christian school leaders, educators, and board members. Rich with research, theological grounding, and honest reflection from the field, this is a book for those who understand that Christian schooling is an intergenerational project, one that demands clarity of purpose, courage of conviction, and the wisdom to prepare those who will continue building long after we are gone.

Full Product Details

9781923569508

Table of Contents

Reviews

'Grand Designs is essential reading for leaders and board members in Christian education. Iselin and Pampuch's metaphor of building cathedrals offers practical advice and all-important reminders that must be reflected on within Christian schools. This is a must-read for all who are seeking tangible ways to keep the main thing the main thing, generation after generation.' Shaun Brooker, Chairperson, New Zealand Association for Christian Schools 'This book invites readers to pause and consider the faithful essentials that sustain Christian schools. Centred on four enduring pillars: Alignment, Belonging, Excellence, and Imagination, it offers a compelling vision for strengthening the foundations that make lasting transformation possible. By faithfully shoring up these foundational pillars, schools bring hope for the future.' Jennifer Thompson, Chief Executive Officer, Christian Schools International (USA) 'In this thoughtful and practical book, Iselin and Pampuch serve as wise guides for any school leader seeking to heed the call of Christian education. The authors provide a blueprint that will help leaders faithfully renew their schools' missions, not just for the sake of this generation of students and educators, but for all those who will follow.' Dr Lynn Swaner, President, Cardus US

Author Information

Dr Darren Iselin is a seasoned leader in Christian education with more than 30 years of experience across Australia and internationally. He has served in a range of roles including CEO, principal, president, and executive leader across K-12 and higher education contexts. He currently serves as Director of Research and Innovation with Christian Schools Australia, where he leads national research initiatives, strategic partnerships, and thought leadership across the sector.Darren holds a PhD from the University of Queensland. His award-winning thesis on how principals cultivate sustainable school cultures in times of change reflects his expertise and deep interest in leadership, school culture, formation, and innovation in Christian schooling. Dr Daniel Pampuch is a highly respected leader in Christian education with over 30 years of experience in Australia and internationally. As CEO of Christian Schools Australia, he provides strategic leadership to a network of more than 200 schools serving nearly 100,000 students. His work spans advocacy, media, governance, research, strategic planning, and sector development.In addition to his work with CSA, Daniel also serves in key governance roles, within the community services, aged care, and education sectors. He holds a PhD focussed on next generation leadership from the University of Queensland, along with postgraduate qualifications in educational leadership, business management, and theology. Accordingly, Daniel brings a wealth of insight, wisdom, and practical industry experience.

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