A Week One Summer

I loved this book. It was inspiring, emotially fulfilling and uplifting. It was a privilege to learn about the events that helped form this talented man. Behind the successful educator and rugby legend it was amazing to see the depth of character of the little boy who will always be at the heart of Floyd. His optimism, dignity generosity and care is very evident if you have ever met him, but this force of personality is even more impressive when you gain an understanding of the journey that made him who he is. A must read.

I saw this mentioned in The Sunday Times last week otherwise we would not have seen it. The book is superbly written. His early life is desperately sad and yet he rose to the top despite his major obstacles.I would recommend it to all and read it in two evenings as it is very thought provoking. Those interested in rugby will enjoy this book as rugby is threaded through every chapter. The other main theme is that of racism in the UK , in rugby ,and in school.It is well expressed in a clear and measured way.

It is hard to put into words how powerful, moving and inspiring Floyd’s life story is. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Having faced hardship and family trauma at a young age, and in the face of open and underlying discrimination he somehow found the inner strength and determination to rise above the prejudices he has faced to reach the highest levels of excellence in both the sporting and educational arenas. I was fortunate enough to have Floyd Steadman as teacher. He was then, and still to this day is a truly inspirational and revered figure. He continues to push down barriers, challenge inequality and fight for positive change, in his own modest, thoughtful, and yet hugely powerful way. This book provokes you to think about the inequality that still exists today and makes you want to try and change that. It is a must read.

I have had the honour to know Floyd for about 15yrs now, since he had his first headship. I always knew him as a hard working and dedicated person who inspired both the children in his school and the staff around him. I never knew the back-story....Well now we do. His achievements are impressive and now knowing the background, I am even more impressed. Read his book, be inspired, help him make the world a better place.

Floyd Steadman has witnessed life in Britain through a unique lens and in this powerful and moving book describes succinctly how from being rejected by his father he overcame prejudice and racism to build a highly successful career in education. His rugby career fell short of being capped for England but his frustration never spills over and reflects the discipline he maintained on the field. Two of his former pupils were Eddie Redmayne and Maro Itoje, and from their testimony emerges a wise and insightful leader.

I read the brilliantly written book in one go.I have been moved by the toughness of the challenges Floyd Steadman had to face as a child, as a courageous man fighting against discriminations through Sport and Education at the highest levels. His life, high standards in term of ethics, his hard work, inclusive and powerful leadership, his extraordinary achievements and impact on others will forever inspire me. Thank you. Definitely a must read.

This genuinely uplifting book demonstrates the power of ambition, kindness and solidarity to overcome what could easily have been crippling obstacles to a happy and successful life. Floyd Steadman 's story should make PE teachers proud of the potential they have to transform lives.

Having played on the same rugby team as Floyd throughout our secondary school years, it is fascinating to read how his life has thrown so many challenges in his path and how he has overcome them. His achievements both on and off the rugby field should be admired by all.