Dr. Stephen WhiteHead

Internationally recognised expert on gender identity, men and masculinities and international education. Creator of the Total Inclusivity concept. Author of 16 books. Co-Founder and Director of Intelligence Partnership (emotional intelligence consultancy). Co-Founder and Director of Whitehead, Lee & Associates (education consultants). Co-Founder and Lead Writer for Educational Digest International. Total Inclusivity Advisor for organisations, schools and universities.

Prologue

Writing

Stephen’s books and writing span over 25 years and range from the essential sociological text on ‘Men and Masculinities’ (2002) to the mainstream global best-selling ‘Many Faces of Men’ (2004) – translated into 15 languages. His most recent works are three books on Total Inclusivity, all published by Routledge in 2022; a highly acclaimed co-authored book on ‘International Schooling’ (2020); and the definitive examination of ‘Toxic Masculinity’ (2021). Stephen is co-founder and lead writer for the Educational Digest International, where his fortnightly articles on international schooling and education are read by educators around the world.

Consultancy

Stephen is Co-Founder and Director of Intelligence Partnership. IP specialises in the development of emotional intelligence for individuals, schools and organisations.

Stephen is Co-Founder and Director of Whitehead, Lee & Associates. WLA specialises in business-education solutions for international and private schools.

LATEST BOOKS

Published November, 2022

Creating a Totally Inclusive University

This book introduces the concept and practices of Total Inclusivity to universities around the world. It is written to help universities contend with increasing public scrutiny and uncertainty around issues of diversity, equity, inclusion and justice now at the forefront of global higher education. Providing a guide and template to higher education leaders, the book addresses such issues as work culture, free speech, student wellbeing, racism, LGBT+ identities, managerialism or ‘simply’ the ability of the institution to survive post-Covid. Whitehead and O’Connor argue that handling these issues can best be done in a university climate and system which is Totally Inclusive. This is the standard for any higher education institution to aim for, not only in its teaching but in its fundamental principles and everyday practices if it is to meet its obligations to its members and to wider society. The book aims to support universities as well as challenge the status quo as they grapple with the different global and societal pressures confronting them. It is an essential read for anyone working in leadership in higher education institutions and those interested in creating inclusive practices within their institution.

Published November, 2022

Becoming a Totally Inclusive School:

A Guide for Teachers and School Leaders

Educators are at a crossroads and the global call for institutions to address their inequitable structures is ringing loudly. For teachers and school leaders who are hearing that call, this book offers knowledge and guidance for becoming a Totally Inclusive school. Each chapter delves into key ideas that are fundamental to addressing the complex challenge of achieving Total Inclusivity – one which encompasses and values racial diversity, gender equality, LGBTQ+ inclusivity, neurodiversity and more. Across the three sections, the authors introduce key terms and concepts important to inclusivity, focused on mindsets, behaviours and systems and structures. Explore how interactions contribute to or impede progress, and engage with tools, stories and reflection points to translate knowledge into practice. Written in an accessible style with reflective exercises in every chapter, the book will guide educational professionals along the pathway to becoming advocates for inclusivity in their schools and communities.

Imagine the possibilities when international education becomes truly inclusive. The ability to make connections with people from every corner of the world, embracing new cultures, perspectives, and ideas, is now a fundamental part of life. The authors of 'Becoming a Totally Inclusive School' have turned their personal experiences and views into a source of inspiration for people who strive to make international education more accessible and more effective for all.

Real-life, accessible, challengingly upfront and honest, 'Becoming a Totally Inclusive School' is essential reading for all educators. In these times where awareness of diversity, equity and inclusion are front and centre for us all, we need resources that support us in facing sometimes uncomfortable truths; where we look at ourselves and our communities and ask, 'is everyone totally included in our school, is our school totally inclusive?' Angeline, Sadie and Stephen have created a book that covers key theoretical models and approaches, alongside practical case studies in action that can be used and implemented in schools throughout the world.

A clear and accessible framework for reflection and action for social justice. 'Becoming a Totally Inclusive School,' is a must read for any educator or school leader who is ready and willing to lean into the deep work of cultivating a learning community that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive.

July 4, 2022

Total Inclusivity at Work

Despite inclusivity’s importance and most people’s desire for it, understanding inclusivity can be tricky. This book introduces the concept of Total Inclusivity to organisations, their leaders and employees around the world. It aims to help organisations and those people who create them, to become Totally Inclusive communities, wherein diversity is valued, healthy identities enabled, respect for difference prevails, and every member counts – regardless of their identity mix. The book provides insights into how identity works and defines Total Inclusivity as concept and practice. Whitehead suggests what organisations can do to safeguard and nurture diverse organisational identities. The book also provides easy to follow guidelines on how we can implement Total Inclusivity in organisation through individuals. Written in an accessible style, while informed by contemporary research into the self, organisations and identities, this book will not only guide organisational members – owners, CEOs, leaders, managers, administrators and every staff member – along the pathway to creating a Totally Inclusive community, it will establish a ground-breaking and unassailable ethical standard for all organisations to follow as they venture further into this century.

Stephen Whitehead has imaginatively constructed a vision for a creative future; one that is ‘purposeful, reflective, informed and relentless’. Total Inclusivity speaks to us not only about the principles and practices of DEIJ but of the poetics of living with ourselves, with each other and our environment.

Balancing theory with a strong bias for practical and actionable insight, this book adds an authoritative and informed voice to the rising chorus demanding diverse workplaces. It is both timely and prescient; predicting a shift in what it will take for organisations to survive and thrive. Nothing short of 'total inclusivity' will be enough. Relevant to managers and leaders in organisations of all shapes, sizes, and forms, 'Total Inclusivity at Work' is a powerful and important concept and this is a powerful and important book.

This book is bold in its statement of truths, and truly transformative in presenting the challenges we all face in creating inclusive cultures in an engaging, compassionate, manner. To suggest that this book is integral to understanding what it means to be ‘totally inclusive’ is an understatement. It is essential reading – not just for advocates of diversity, equity, inclusion and justice – but for each and every member of the communities in which we live and work.

Profound, punchy, bold, and softened with touches of humour, this book introduces Total Inclusivity, a concept and practice whose time has come. ‘Woke’ or not, read it!

November 1, 2020

International Schooling

The Teacher's Guide: A Companion To Your International Adventure

Practical and easy-to-access, this comprehensive guide provides insight into one of the biggest, and most exciting, career transitions and life adventures many teachers ever make

Well-researched and academically robust, this book provides an overview of the exciting world of international education and sound advice for the newbie and the experienced. Stephen and Denry have not only drawn on their own research and experience but also completed a “sense check” through their extensive and experienced contacts in the world of international schools. I will be recommending this book to all those applying internationally to my school.”

I found the advice super helpful in helping to plan my escape!

For anyone thinking or planning to work in an international school this is a must have book.

Great advice, very thorough.

What a great book for teachers! Actually, it’s a great book for anyone thinking of moving abroad for work.

Provides all kinds of information from school selection to masters degrees in a VERY readable format. I recommend this!”

If you are a leader of an international school, buy multiple copies of this book and give them to your new staff.

November 26, 2019

Toxic Masculinity:

Curing the Virus: making men smarter, healthier, safer

In this world of mass shootings, violence against women, young men trying to live up to ‘traditional masculinity’, ‘incels’, it’s becoming harder for men to adjust to life. Suicide in young men is on the rise, anger and aggression are booming. Where will it all end? This book explains how it is and how men can and will have to change from the toxic route some are taking. Empathy and compassion for oneself is a big start on the route to salvation from this ever increasing problem.

A well-researched, fascinating, thoroughly good book

An Important book, coming at an important time

Insightful, inspiring and BOLD!

I loved this book. It called me out, it reassured me, and it rekindled my curiosity.

This book could not be more timely or relevant

Stephen’s desire for a more deeply connected experience feels personal, validating and healing.