The front cover of the book 'But There Is No E in Phonics!' by Chiquita J Arnot. The cover has a pink background, showing a classroom setting with a blackboard, blue chair, clock & desk with papers and pens.

Meet Mrs Belvedere. An experienced if somewhat jaded teacher.

Every September she begins the new academic year with a mixed feeling of hope and curiosity. Oh, and a touch of cynicism.

Let’s face it, it can’t be any worse than last year, can it? The incident with the stick insects is just a dim and distant memory.

Journey with her as she navigates her way through endless meetings and ‘new’ initiatives. Meet the children who cause her incredulity and amusement in equal measure. Encounter the staff who will help and support, as well as those who...won’t.

My brand new book is available to order now on Amazon.

‘But There Is No Ef In Phonics!’

  • This book captures the highs, lows and hilarious moments of the academic year in a primary school. From the young, innocent children to the seasoned, battle-weary staff, the characters are expertly and wittily described; you won't want to put it down!

    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Sara, Chelmsford, Essex

  • It’s a book that is unshowy, deeply human, and told with the kind of authenticity that can’t be faked… written with heart, clarity, and care.

    Edward Couzens-Lake

    Read his full review, here

  • Hilariously observant insight into the simplicity of childhood, the dedication of (often weary) teachers and importance of being able to find something to laugh about Believable characters which no doubt are present in every school up and down the country- a brilliant debut novel!

    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Jane, Braintree, Essex

‘Every teacher has a book full of stories to tell!’

Open book on sandy beach with straw hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, near rocks and shoreline with gentle waves.

I decided that I would be a teacher when I was seven years old. My parents, both teachers, advised against it. They said…

“It’s a thankless task and there’s no money in it.”

How right they were.

But I enjoyed my schooling for the most part, mainly because I did not take it too seriously (except sports day…).

Throughout my 34 year teaching career, there were of course challenges, but I could usually find something funny about them to get me through. And thankfully, cakes were never in short supply either!

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Person writing in a notebook at a wooden table with a cup, a smartphone, and another notebook.