This book concentrates on the 'heart' of teaching - teachers' moral purposes, the nature of care, emotional commitment and motivation that distinguishes the best teaching and the best teachers.

This book is a celebration and an acknowledgement of the various forms of intellectual, physical, emotional and, in particular, passionate endeavour in which teachers at their best engage. Chris Day demonstrates that teachers with a passion for teaching are those who are committed, enthusiastic and intellectually and emotionally energetic in their work with children, young people and adults alike. Passionate teachers are aware of the challenge of the broader social contexts in which they teach, have a clear sense of identity and believe they can make a difference to the learning and achievement of all their pupils. A Passion for Teaching is a contribution to understanding and improving the teaching profession and brings new insights to the work and lives of teachers. It is for all teachers, teacher educators and intending teachers who have a passion for education, who love learners, learning life and the teaching life.

Introduction: The Need for Passion 1. Why Passion is Essential 2. Moral Purposes: Care, Courage and Pupil's Voices 3. Emotions and Identities 4. The Passion of Commitment: Job Satisfaction, Motivation and Efficacy 5. Building Knowledge About Practice 6. A Passion for Learning and Development 7. Passionate Learning Communities 8. Sustaining the Passion