Teachers Talk Radio

This week's guest is a former teacher, now Chair of Education at the University of Birmingham. We discuss his essay: 'The Evil of Authoritarian Education. Banality and Compliance in the Neo-Liberal Era'

How do we create the perfect teaching partnership? Sophie invites her partner teacher Beth Ewin in to explore what makes the dream teaching team and how to manage those challenging moments when the partnership breaks down.

Morgan and Tod chat with timetabler extraordinaire Rizwana Shaikh on the art of creating a great timetable. Given the demands and constraints of facilities, staffing, resources and curriculum Riz shares her insights and tricks of the trade. Timetabling is the backbone of the school and the timetabler brings the institution to life by balancing many priorities at once.

What happens when social media platforms open up the floodgates for schools to face unlimited criticism over their school policies? What impact does this have on us as a profession and what can we do about it? Join me to debate all these questions and more!

Tom is joined by Dan Worker (Deputy head and History teacher), Michael Downes (Head of History), Robert Simpson (English teacher) and Helen Bradford-Keegan (a Foundation Head of Educational Research & Innovation 0-19) to discuss effective revision strategies. What are the best revision strategies? What do you use? What revision routines do you promote with students? Do you have any revision do's and don'ts? What does the science say on revision? All covered in this 90 minute conversation.

Rae talks to Richard Beard about science teaching, examinations and whether science classes should be set.

Leading assessment in the foundation subjects. Matt Foy is an Assistant Headteacher and assessment lead.  He has a particular interesting and expertise in the assessment of the foundation subjects.

In this second episode from international schools worldwide, we look at inclusion and why it is just as important in the EAL classroom as it is in mainstream (English) first language classrooms. Adrienn Szlapak, my guest is an EAL specialist at an international school in Malaysia.

Nadia talks about the importance of music education in schools with guest Daniel Connor.

What hacks do you use to keep on top of your workload and reduce your own cognitive overload?  Samantha discusses it here from AI to old fashioned exercise books. The show ends with a special guided meditation to help you unwind from the day.

On today's show, I spoke to Gustavo Gonzalez about the use of songs, film and TV in the classroom. We also spoke about the new GenAI songwriting tools and other AI tools.

Following on from last week's show on whole-school approaches to wellbeing, Darren discusses what it means to create a school culture, the danger of not being deliberate in behaviours and the differences between climate and culture.

In this episode, we explore the intricacies of task design in education. Joined by Alex Bedford, Lauren Meadows, and Elliot Morgan, we unpack how well-constructed tasks can enhance learning, minimising distraction and get children to think hard. Drawing on key educational theories, this episode provides a comprehensive look at how to challenge students appropriately and even explore how to use technology to amplify learning outcomes. Whether you're interested in creating more engaging learning experiences or integrating technology effectively, this episode offers valuable insights into making educational tasks more impactful. Tune in to transform your educational strategies and help your students achieve deeper understanding and lasting knowledge.

Got lots of EHCP applications to do? Needs assessment requests taking hours (or even days) of your time?  Join me as I share some tips to help you reduce your workload around needs assessment requests and also how you can use the law to help you get your LA to agree them. I also bust some of the myths around what you 'should' do before applying and unlawful reasons for refusing to assess. Share with your SENCO colleagues to help their wellbeing.

Michelle is joined by special guest Angela Slack to discuss the teaching of grammar in schools.

Hannah Wilson is joined by Stephen Clifford-Franklin from Resus Rangers, who provide Quality First Aid Workshops, Assemblies & Educational Resources for Teachers of Primary School Children across the UK. They explore what the requirements are and what opportunities Resus Rangers can provide to meet them. Find out more at resusrangers.com.

Tom is joined by Alex Rawlings, primary headteacher, plus assorted teacher-callers who share their views on the recent controversy regarding this corridor. Does corridor decor matter? Is it a reflection on school culture? Where does school design fit in with school performance? Listen to this discussion to find out!

In this show, Adam is joined by Paul Cline, a teacher and Professional development lead from Suffolk. Adam and Paul discuss all things Instructional coaching, getting to the crux of the similarities and differences between approaches including the facilitative to directive spectrum and the crucial role of awareness and diagnostics.

Anna Hudson and her guest Toya Dunscombe explore the challenges and barriers facing looked after children in the education and care systems, and suggest a few things teachers can do to help them.

Toby and Piers Gledhill talk about how to make pair-teaching work in the classroom, whether it's with TAs, mentees or teachers. We also look at the culture of isolation and discuss how to make teaching more inclusive and open.

In this show Kirsten and I discuss definitions of well-being, key strategies that teachers can implement in their classrooms and some of the challenges that teachers face in prioritising pupil wellbeing alongside academic achievement.

David is joined by Josh Perry Garry the 2022 National Diversity Award winner, Head of History, author and public speaker. In this show they discuss what diversity in the History curriculum means, what a truly diverse curriculum looks like and why it matters.

Darren looks at what a WSA to wellbeing looks like and thinks about why staff wellbeing should be just as big a priority as pupil wellbeing.

My guest this week is Naomi Eisenstadt the first director of Sure Start. Sure Start was the boldest attempt to close the inequality gap in education since the inception of the welfare state. In light of recent IFS reports showing the long-term benefits of Sure Start, we reflect on its successes, failures, and legacy.

Tom Rogers talks to Australian behaviour expert Bill Rogers about all things behaviour in schools - what's going wrong? What needs to change? What strategies should teachers implement in the classroom? What about restorative conversations? Sanctions? Impact? School leadership support? All this and more covered in this 90 minute conversation - enjoy! The video version of this interview can be found here.

Stephen takes listeners on an eclectic journey through myriad topics pertinent to teachers including a magnificent trip to Norfolk.

Paul talks to Dr Cheryl Bauman about caring leadership. This episode is a 'must-listen' for current and aspiring leaders in schools.   Episode Chapters (06:12) The strong relationship between formal and informal leadership (15:10) Leaders have to have self-belief (22:56) Being a servant leader takes courage. It's being caring and collaborative (31:40) What makes it difficult for school leaders to be authentic? (51:39) Motivation in becoming a better leader (57:47) What is the impact of caring leadership on children and the community? (01:07:49) Leadership’s impact on the medium to longer term for students and teachers (01:11:39) How does a leader show that she cares?

Sabrina and Ian Moore discuss Project Based Learning and how Ian has designed, developed and implemented it for his construction students.

Julia Waters, the sister of headteacher Ruth Perry, joins Tom Rogers to discuss all things OFSTED. Julia talks about the lead up to the death of Ruth, the inspection which a coroner concluded was a cause of her death and the 56 days between the inspection and Ruth's death. Also in this interview - What has Julia's experience of Amanda Spielman, Gillian Keegan and Martyn Oliver been like? What are her aims for change? What happens if she doesn't get change? What is her message to the teaching unions and the profession as a whole? All covered in this interview.

A dive into building curriculum around key concepts and how this can aid processing and build meaningful learning opportunities that enhance long-term memory. Adam and Chris compare experiences and really get into Chris's unique context and how he has built curriculum with this in mind.

In this episode, the first in my series with educators from international schools, Gemma Donovan, Head of EAL at a British curriculum international school in Dubai talks about the difference between EAL and EFL, and shares how the teaching of English language to students in international school systems is special. We hear about how EAL teachers and subject teachers work together, how pupils support each other and how student progress can be really visible within a short period of time!

An exploration of the relevance of single sex schools in the 21st century. Ikem and Faye share their own experiences attending single sex schools as students and the impact it has had on their lives as adults.

Krupa and Nazya are joined by former Headteacher and Chair of Governors Julia Skinner. A refreshingly honest conversation about the purpose of quality school governance as well as ways to be creative with your board.

Tonight I talked to award winning author Emily Randall-Jones about neurodiversity and writing, the creative process and everything in between. We talk about the differences, challenges and with some great advice and strategies to get the best from your neurodiverse students.

Following on from the show  about leadership qualities, Maxine explores the idea that these are not fixed. Thinking about Growth Mindset, limiting assumptions and beliefs and how we can develop the skills and traits of great leaders.

Join Paul as he chats with Ruud Lelieur of the University of Antwerp about Teachers' Academic Optimism. Find out the three main components of changing how your students learn, feel and behave. Learn how you can feel less drained and more energised after a day's teaching when you approach school from the perspective of Teachers' Academic Optimism.   Heres's the trailer from the acclaimed and Oscar nominated The Teachers' Lounge mentioned in tonight's show - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCE6W16ULVQ&ab_channel=Curzon

Lucy explores teacher accents - have they held some teachers back? Lucy is joined by a range of guests who describe their experience of having a prominent accent in education.

Kathryn is joined by AHT Zoe Neagle to discuss her first year in her role in a North London school. We discuss the journey from identification of improvement priorities to the green shoots of success and beyond.

Tom Rogers and special guest host Kathryn Clark interview Maths educator and author David Shattock about his John Catt publication; 'Presenting Children to Maths'. You can grab your copy of the book right here: https://www.johncattbookshop.com/products/presenting-children-to-maths-stronger-character-for-better-learning

Toby Doncaster and Aileen Wallace uncover the secrets behind embracing edtech in the classroom. What are the benefits and pitfalls and how does one start in edtech? With passion, enthusiasm and humour, Aileen recounts her edtech journey and details what went well, both for learners and herself as well as a possible glimpse into the future of edtech and AI.

Join me as I talk to Richard Ingam. Richard is a researcher at the University of Exeter's School of Education.  A former teacher he now specialises in inclusive education and systems thinking.

Join Chris as he offers insights into key aspects of A-Level Politics including comparative theory, ideologies and evaluation.

Should teachers use phones in the classroom? How should teachers interact with social media? What are the safeguarding risks for teachers and students when teachers embark on a social media journey themselves? What are the risks, rewards and pitfalls? All of this is covered and more in this episode of the Sunday Social with Anna Hudson and special guest 'Ruth A', who has a following on Instagram and other networks.

On today's show, I spoke about the SDGs and sustainability in education with my guest, Gabriela Madera from Argentina.

What does it mean to have a toxic colleague? What can schools do to tackle toxic employees? Join Darren on a short journey into the idea of workplace toxicity.

Are you lost for a way to make Shakespeare come alive in class or are you looking for a poetry lesson your students will remember? Then teach Taylor Swift. My guest is Taylor Swift expert and academic Dr. Clio Doyle. We discuss using Tayor in the classroom and her place in the canon of literature.

Hannah is joined by members of her own family to find out what it's like to live with a teacher!

Sabrina is joined by Dr Simon Fox who discusses the gap in between T-Level and A-Level offers for Level 3 programmes following recent reforms in Further Education.

Join me as we discuss some of our favourite fictional teachers - what makes them so good (both as a character and as a teacher) and what can we learn from these characters to improve our real world teaching?

Wellbeing! - One of the most important topics in education today. Join hosts Tom Rogers and Hannah Wilson as they are joined by Steve and Suneta from Teachwell Toolkit to discuss mental health and wellbeing in schools. Following an exploration of teacher and school leader burnout, we explore the the strategies, tools and actions that a school or educational institution could take to support staff and student wellbeing.  Key resources from the show: DFE funded senior mental health lead training  Heartfelt Leadership: Headteachers handbook Email admin@teachwelltoolkit.com to ask any questions and get further advice.

In this episode, Jim Fuller shares his journey from teacher, to Director of Studies in a language school. We hear about what his work entails, where the balance of teaching and management is and some advice for anyone thinking about moving to management in the EFL sector.

James Radburn is joined by Laura Knight and Chris Goodall as we explore the role of AI in Education. Together, they discuss the intricacies of integrating AI into educational practices, highlighting the importance of adaptability and the critical role of ethical considerations. They delve into how educators and policymakers can embrace AI tools responsibly, ensuring these technologies enhance rather than overshadow the human element of teaching and learning. Laura and Chris share insights into fostering a culture of innovation and inclusion, preparing students for a future where technology and education are increasingly intertwined. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of education, where AI is not just a tool but a transformative force shaping the way we learn, teach, and lead as part of Teachers Talk Radio.

Maxine is joined by Alice Gregson, CEO of Forum Strategy to talk about the qualities make a great leader. Discussing the importance of context, qualities and traits not being seen as fixed and how leaders can model vulnerability.

On today's show, I look at how teachers can turn their classroom into a live escape room game. How best can you do this while ensuring the students are still learning? We look at general guidelines, put into context through an example escape room game I designed for learners, along with an exploration of why you might want to use escape room games and how you can do this.

Darren reviews the nature of a 'profession' and discusses the need for community in order for a professional to thrive.

Lucy chats with former teacher and author Lucy Strange about grammar teaching. They discuss whether the problem is what’s being taught or how it is being taught. They also ponder the impact of technology on children’s imagination and writing skills.

Kathryn is joined by ECT2 Liam Selsby as he reaches the final term of the ECF. We discuss professional learning and engaging with feedback (as an ECT and from Kathryn's perspective as ITTCo), and reflect on the process of going through the process of the ECF.

Join Stephen for a wonderfully meandering journey through his teaching week. He gives his tips on some tools and apps that teachers could use to make their life easier, takes us on his incredibly breezy seaside walk, shares feedback he'd had from a recent lesson observation and makes us laugh a lot too! Join Stephen for another of his unmissable TTR shows!

Hannah Wilson interviews author, blogger, speaker and Walkthrus creator Tom Sherrington about the latest book his Walkthrus series - Learning Walkthrus. Hear what the key messages and takeaways from the book are in this bumper interview. You can get 20% off the book on the John Catt Website by using the code JCTTR2324.

Darren explores the defining features of Generation Alpha, which (to no-ones surprise) is the tech they use.

Host Rae and guest Natasha Brandon delve into the nuanced experiences of LGBT+ educators working within faith schools.

Tom is joined by the 'This is School' team to discuss the concept of authentic learning and how the 'This is School' platform can support it. Find out more about This is School here: https://www.thisisschool.com/

Christopher talks to Dr Sheina Lew-Levy of Durham University about the educational practices of modern hunter-gatherer communities.

Join Chris Wilkinson as he talks to Helen Young about learning visits.  Both teacher and observer perspectives are offered in an interesting debate on why learning visits are essential for all teacher development.

Are you interested in eco-schools? Dive into the captivating world of eco-education with host Hannah Wilson, as she brings together the inspirational Philippe Cousteau and dedicated Science Teacher Rose Edmondson to discuss the transformative impact of the OurEcho Challenge. Discover how a passion for moss and a commitment to biodiversity can ignite student leadership, community involvement, and real-world problem-solving. Uncover the secrets to crafting a winning competition entry and learn how these eco-projects are nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards. Whether you're a teacher seeking to enrich your curriculum or a student eager to make a difference, this one is your gateway to a greener future.

Join Emily-Grace as she talks to Zach Groshell @MrZachG about explicit and direct instruction. A super show that uncovers the ingredients for effective teaching.

Michelle is joined by special guest Liz Free to discuss the challenges faced by women in education and how they are being overcome every day. At what rate are glass ceilings being smashed? We find out!

Join me as Matthew Ruddle and I discuss what makes effective feedback, how it benefits learners and teachers alike and why 'constructive criticism' should be consigned to room 101.

On this show, Matt and I talk about neurodiversity, strengths, challenges, knowledge and giving yourself permission to look after yourself.

Join us for a dynamic and insightful episode where we dive deep into innovative strategies and pedagogical approaches that are transforming the way students learn, understand, and excel in their academic journeys. This special edition, featuring the esteemed educator Miss Joanne Crofts, sheds light on a variety of topics pivotal to enhancing student achievement and teaching efficacy in today's classrooms. This episode promises a wealth of knowledge, practical tips, and innovative ideas aimed at educators, students, and anyone passionate about the future of education. Don't miss the opportunity to gain valuable insights from Miss Joanne Crofts and enhance your approach to teaching and learning. Join us for an enlightening journey into the heart of educational success.

Sean chats to Katie in Illinois about how best to get quality writing out of students. She answers the question, what's the best reading to do to support writing.

Tom Rogers interviews Bridget Phillipson, the Shadow Secretary of State for Education. Questions include; the future of OFSTED, Behaviour in schools, funding for SEND, Bridget's own school experience and much more!

SEMH needs are on the rise yet schools often struggle to access high quality Alternative Provision. Services are definitely not equitable for those who need the most support. Join me as I talk to Grant Edgar who shares his thoughts on the issues around accessing AP,  how his school support the holistic development of students and some brilliant ideas on how to address inequity in the AP system and education as a whole. "Education is too important to leave to ideology"

This week in my quest to find out what schools are for, my guest is Isabella Aura. Isabella is a teacher, researcher, and lecturer in Tampere Finland. We discuss her study of a school in the USA that uses the Harry Potter books to become Hogwarts. We also discussed the role of storification, play, and games in schools.

Join Stephen for a wonderfully meandering journey through his teaching week. He gives his tips on some tools and apps that teachers could use to make their life easier, takes us on his canal walk, shares feedback he'd had from a recent lesson observation and makes us laugh a lot too! Join Stephen for another of his unmissable TTR shows!

Join me, Emily Edwards, to discuss some of the most frustrating questions you could hear in a History lesson and how to banish those phrases to Room 101!

Tom Rogers is joined by a range of guests to discuss the key reasons for the decline in behaviour in schools. This show was driven by the evidence base around this - including surveys by the UK Government, NASUWT, Teacher Tapp and more that all cite increased levels of poor behaviour in schools. Amongst the reasons discussed are; Social Media, Phones, Parenting, Lack of support from parents, entitlement, lack of SEND support, curriculum, mental health crisis, increase in trauma, super strict schools, covid, lack of special schools and lower societal expectations. Guest callers include Katie Waissel, Adam Woodward, James Bickerstaff, Gulcin Sesli and many more!

Host Rae, a former Head of Year, is joined by experienced Head of Year Jourdon to discuss (rant about) the joys and challenges (but mostly challenges) of pastoral work in education. Does the reward outweigh the misery? Different but honest answers provided.

Nigel Caplan and I discuss the origins of the 5-paragraph essay, why it's a disservice to our students, and how we can change our teaching of (academic) writing.

Join Amanda and her guests, Jonny Mulholland and Neil Dillon, as they talk about how teachers at different stages of their careers can learn from and look out for each other.

Chris Wilkinson addresses this key change of teaching and learning terminology.  He demonstrates how rephrasing it from differentiation can greatly enhance the progress of all pupils.

I am joined by Susan Hillyard, an educator based in Argentina and we chat about how she got there and about teachign and learning through drama.

Have you heard of the brilliant book 'Initium: Cognitive Science and Research-Informed primary practice' by Emma Turner? This fantastic episode explores what the book is about, and interviews author Emma about the purpose behind this book, the process of writing it, and considers some of the things we can learn from this book about cognitive science in the primary phase. 'Initium' is published by John Catt and can be purchased through their website johncattbookshop.com

Darren is on his soap box talking about how higher literacy rates lead to better futures for all and how we can encourage literacy in our young people.

Maxine is joined by Caren Earp and Jess Pather, two inspirational secondary headteachers to celebrate women leaders in education.   Talking about what is great about women as leaders and how we can inspire others through leadership.

Paul talks to Dr Bernardita Munoz Chereau UCL (IOE) about “stuck” schools and how they can escape the myriad factors that prevent them from improving. The wide ranging discussion looks at how Ofsted can hinder schools’ progression, how socio-economic factors must be considered in inspections and what role values play in the future of school assessment. The conversation concludes with guidance on how all schools, not just those that are “stuck” can benefit from nine clearly identified factors that include: collaboration & networking, distributed leaderships and having a clear and strong moral purpose. 📋 Episode Chapters (00:00) This is teachers talk radio and you are listening live(01:35) Welcome to the show. This evening in the studio we have Dr. Bernardita Munoz Chereau(02:53) Bernie has been researching stuck schools and how being stuck affects school performance(06:57) I'm not convinced that inspections actually raise standards or outcomes(21:58) Ofsted say that school improvement is not their job(23:59) The inspection itself had a negative effect on school improvement, study finds(35:16) Bernie says the current system of school inspections is counterproductive to good teaching(40:08) Paul: Surely the fact that there's only a handful of grades keeps schools stuck(49:02) The vitality of collaboration(56:24) Another characteristic that we found in unstuck was distributed leadership(01:05:17) The list of stuck schools is public 🎙️ Thank you for listening Further information can be had here: https://profiles.ucl.ac.uk/64453-bernardita-munoz-chereau/publications

Lucy chats to teachers about World Book Day - is it a waste of time or a wonderful event? All views shared on this special TTR Show.

Michelle Hinds is joined by, Head of School Youlande Biosah and Assistant Principal Sarah Wilkinson-Crute to discuss the challenges women face on their path to leadership. What are the real barriers?

Hannah Wilson talks to Steve Bladon, a former headteacher, who has enjoyed a 24 year career in primary education. In 2023 when one of his own children fell unwell with anxiety, and, temporarily, falling out of school, completely change the way he viewed school attendance and how we support students re-entering education.

Kathryn is joined by Secondary MFL teacher, Sean Bailey to discuss the challenges and opportunities of speaking tests and the future of MFL.

Toby talks to Sabeena Shah and Jolanta Wlodek about engaging and motivating staff, being creative, innovative and pragmatic, managing an incredible workload and practising self-care.

Nathan Gynn is joined by clinical psychologist and author Doctor Naomi Fisher for an extensive discussion about attendance in schools. They discuss the psychology of attendance: Does attendance matter? What are the barriers to attendance?  Have young people changed? How do young people feel about school? Fines for non-attendance? What powers to individual teachers have? What should schools do more or less of to improve attendance?   All of this and more in a show supported by John Catt Educational.

Tom is joined by Adam Levick and Charlie Duckett to talk about phonics in secondary schools. The impact of the pandemic has meant that more students are arriving in Year 7 with gaps in their knowledge of word reading - so what can secondary schools do to help?   Plus, Dave Brown shares his experience of cutting down workload with KS5 marking and feedback in essay-based subjects, sharing strategies and insights from his experience working in a sixth form college with many essays to look at.

In this show I talk to author Sally Docherty about the writing process and how to help students become more creative in their own writing. Lots of cracking advice to help students, especially those coming up to their exams.

What if we could redesign the school year so it better suits our families and supports the wellbeing of staff? Warren Harrison of The Premier Academy shares some fascinating insights into what his school have done with the lengths of their school terms and holidays, even changing the start of their school year to June rather than September. There have been huge positive impacts on attendance, curriculum design and workload. How could this work in your school?

A conversation with Professor Esther Leslie of Birkbeck College discussing the purpose of schools, the impact of technology on education, and the need for fostering critical thinking. We reflect on the ideas of Theodore Adorno and Walter Benjamin and explore topics such as the Frankfurt School's critique of instrumental reasoning in education, the potential of modern technologies for democratizing access to culture, and the decline of humanities in current education systems.

Maxine discusses the power of positive thinking, not to be confused with toxic positivity. Joined by Marcus Ray, @MrRteaches to celebrate all that is great about being a teacher.

We loved this show! Lucy Neuburger chats with Rob and Martin, the innovative minds behind Spelling Shed. This episode peels back the layers of gamification in learning, the importance of spelling in the digital age, and the future of EdTech. Discover how Spelling Shed is revolutionising the way students engage with language, why spelling still matters, and the exciting new features set to launch. Whether you're a teacher looking to invigorate your spelling curriculum or a parent seeking at-home learning tools, this episode is packed with insights and a peek at groundbreaking tech that scans student writing for spelling errors. Find out more about Spelling Shed here.  In the show: What are some of the challenges that teachers have when it comes to spelling?What does teaching spelling effectively mean and why is it important?What skills are essential for pupils to become successful spellers?What mistakes are common when teaching spelling and how can this be fixed?What is the link between spelling, reading and developing key literacy skills?Technology is always evolving. What does that mean for spelling?What is the role of AI when it comes to education in general and what does that mean for spelling?What is the Science of Spelling?Spelling Shed is used across the globe. What does it include and how is it making a difference in schools?How can we use gamification to improve key literacy skills? www.edshed.comwww.spellingshed.comwww.literacyshedplus.comwww.phonicsshed.com

Christopher talks with Dr Helen Rand and Dr Stacy Banwell from the University of Greenwich about feminist pedagogy in the undergraduate seminar room.