Thinking Deeply about Primary Education

Neil Almond, an expert in primary education assessment, teams up with Christopher Such, a knowledgeable figure in educational policy, to discuss the transformative changes in Key Stage 1 reading assessment. They explore the exciting removal of KS1 SATs, allowing schools to rethink evaluation methods. The duo delves into the challenges teachers face with diverse reading abilities and emphasizes strategies for effective instruction. They also highlight the importance of fostering engagement in early reading while ensuring meaningful assessments that promote genuine learning over bureaucratic requirements.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Neil Almond, Shannen Doherty, Tom Brassington, and Lloyd Williams Jones tackle the concerning decline of art, music, sports, and cooking in primary education. They share personal experiences and insights into how budget cuts and curriculum changes impact creativity and holistic learning. The panel emphasizes the need for balance between essential academics and enriching creative experiences. They also explore disparities in access to sports and arts, advocating for systemic reforms to ensure all students benefit from a well-rounded education.

Neil Almond, an expert in educational assessment, discusses transformative changes in Key Stage 1 mathematics assessment following the removal of SATs. He highlights how schools can shift towards individualized learning and innovative teaching methods that prioritize conceptual understanding. The conversation dives into effective strategies for fostering student comprehension, the significance of foundational math skills, and the benefits of adapting assessments to align with children's developmental needs. Almond also predicts how this evolution could reshape educational practices in the coming years.

Shannen Doherty, a pivotal voice in outstanding education today, joins the leadership team from St. George's Primary School, known for their transformative curriculum. They discuss their exemplary behavior management systems and the collaborative development of a behavior policy that emphasizes positive reinforcement. The team shares insights into their ambitious curriculum and how they tailor it to meet student needs. They also reflect on creating an impressive early years foundation and the importance of inclusivity in educational materials. An engaging conversation for educators at all levels!

In this engaging discussion, Chris Such, an advocate for innovative primary education, and seasoned educator Kieran tackle unseen mathematics questions. They explore the challenges of teaching foundational arithmetic and the critical role of vocabulary in math education. Key topics include strategies for improving numerical confidence, effective use of bar models, and the importance of flexible teaching methods. Their insights aim to empower educators and enhance student understanding, making the complexities of primary mathematics more approachable.

Join Neil Almond, a primary education expert, and Christopher Such, a seasoned educator, as they delve into five essential insights about reading comprehension. They discuss the crucial links between fluency and comprehension, challenging common misconceptions. The conversation highlights the importance of vocabulary knowledge and the complexities of assessing reading skills. They also emphasize fostering deep engagement with texts and the role of motivation, advocating for a nuanced approach to teaching that connects with students' unique experiences.

Episode 124: This week on Thinking Deeply about Primary Education, I have the pleasure of speaking with Lloyd Williams-Jones, world-renowned expert in strategic thinking with extensive experience in supporting teachers through the implementation of mechanisms that allow schools to get the most from advanced planning. During our conversation, we dive deep into the importance of strategic thinking within schools and how it can help to improve the working conditions within a school. Lloyd shares practical tips and insights on how to develop strategic thinking skills and apply them to any setting. Whether you are an educator looking to enhance your strategic thinking skills or a school leader seeking to improve the planning process for your teachers, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable strategies. You won't want to miss it. As part of the chat we discuss... 1. What is strategic thinking? 2. What you do that could be considered "strategic"? 3. Why do you do it? 4. How did this develop? And where is it going to next?  5. What are the strategic keys to school improvement?  ...plus much, much more. Whether you're new to the profession or an experienced senior leader, you won't want to miss this one! podcast via www.ko-fi.com/tdape or by subscribing to www.youtube.com/@TDaPE  If you would like to submit a question, email us at thinkingdeeplyinfo@gmail.com or join the TDaPE discord!

In this discussion, Adam Woodward, a seasoned educator, sheds light on the transformative power of knowledge organisers in primary education. He explores what makes a knowledge organiser effective and the signs of a poor one. Adam shares valuable insights from his practical experiences, emphasizing the importance of linking new information to prior knowledge. The conversation also covers the challenges faced during implementation and how educators can maximize the benefits while involving parents in the learning process.

Episode 122: This week on Thinking Deeply about Primary Education, I'm joined by Neil Almond and Christopher Such as we take questions from listeners and do our very best to provide mildly-satisfactory responses. As part of the chat we discuss... No hands up, Testing in Year 1, "I'm leaving teaching", Working Walls ...plus much, much more. Whether you're new to the profession or an experienced senior leader, you won't want to miss this one! podcast via www.ko-fi.com/tdape or by subscribing towww.youtube.com/@TDaPE  If you would like to submit a question, email us at thinkingdeeplyinfo@gmail.com or join the TDaPE discord!

In this enlightening discussion, Kristian Still, an expert in primary education, and Ben Ebdon, a seasoned educator focused on assessment practices, dive into the concept of Test-Enhanced Learning. They explore how testing can transform from a simple assessment to a powerful learning tool. Key insights include the importance of desirable difficulties in education, effective strategies for quizzing, and the role of innovative tech like the Remember More app in boosting student engagement and retention. Discover how structured quizzing can ignite curiosity and enhance learning experiences.