

School Behaviour Secrets with Simon Currigan and Emma Shackleton
Beacon School Support
Are you a teacher, a SENCo or a school leader?Want research-backed strategies for supporting students who find it hard to manage their emotions or behaviour? Want practical ways of supporting pupils with special needs like autism, ADHD, FASD or attachment disorder? Want tried-and-tested classroom management strategies that will work with that ‘tricky class’?Then you’re in the right place.Welcome to the School Behaviour Secrets podcast where we’ll answer ALL these questions and so much more! Week after week, your hosts Simon Currigan and Emma Shackleton share the secrets to behaviour success that every teacher and school leader should know, all based on their decades of experience supporting real teachers and real students in real classrooms.But that’s not all...We also interview thought leaders from the world of education so you can hear NEW insights that could hold the key to unlocking your students’ potential. Whether it’s managing the whole class, helping kids with behavioural SEN, or whole school strategy - we’ve got you covered.Are you in? Brilliant. Because this is YOUR CHANCE to get unstuck, hear from the experts, feel inspired and start seeing more positive behaviour in your classroom again. So hit that subscribe button... and let’s get started!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 30, 2024 • 40min
Autistic And OK (With Joss Lambert and Lily Ashby)
We want our schools to be welcoming, inclusive places where everyone feels okay about being in school. But for many autistic pupils, that isn't the case. So how do we help?That's the focus for this episode of the School Behaviour Secrets podcast, where we join Joss Lambert and Lily Ashby from the Autistic And OK Programme. They explain the challenges faced by neurodiverse students and what schools can do to help autistic pupils feel accepted and understood.Important links:To find out more about the Autistic And OK Programme click hereGet our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbookDownload other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources.phpSecondary school leaders: Join our in-person event in BirminghamWhere you’ll learn what really drives lesson avoidance in secondary schools - and leave with a practical whole-school framework for reducing internal truancy.. Register now.

16 snips
Jun 26, 2024 • 13min
Essentials: Recognising The Differences Between Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD) and Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)isode
Discover the fascinating distinctions between Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD) and Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). Understand their unique behaviors and support needs crucial for educators. Explore characteristics of ODD, including impulsivity and defiance, and learn about the emotional responses of those with PDA when faced with demands. Gain insights into classroom behaviors and the necessity of tailored strategies to effectively support these children. Delve into the complexities of these conditions to enhance learning experiences.

19 snips
Jun 23, 2024 • 34min
How Social Scripts Can Transform Pupil Behaviour (With Sue Larkey)
Sue Larkey, an expert in supporting students with social interaction challenges, shares powerful insights into using social scripts to transform pupil behavior. She emphasizes that tailored scripts can significantly reduce anxiety and foster independence among neurodiverse learners. The discussion covers strategies for guiding children in social situations, particularly during large gatherings, as well as practical approaches for educators and parents. Larkey also highlights the importance of understanding each child’s unique needs to create a supportive environment.

Jun 18, 2024 • 12min
Essentials: Understanding the Significance of "Masking" Behaviour in Classroom Settings
Many kids with autism become experts at "masking" their true feelings and needs. This can be helpful in the short term, but over time, it can leave them feeling drained and exhausted.So, if you're ready to find out more about supporting children with masking behaviours, then join us for the latest School Behaviour Secrets podcast.Important links:Click here to hear all of episode 87Amanda Sokell's website Navigating Neurodiversity.Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbookDownload other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources.phpSecondary school leaders: Join our in-person event in BirminghamWhere you’ll learn what really drives lesson avoidance in secondary schools - and leave with a practical whole-school framework for reducing internal truancy.. Register now.

Jun 16, 2024 • 42min
Developmental Language Disorder - What Teachers And Parents Need To Know (With Tiffany Voigt)
In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we explore Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) with Tiffany Voigt, experienced speech and language pathologist from eLuma.We cover the hidden challenges faced by students with DLD, and how these affect their learning and behaviour. Discover why early intervention and targeted support are crucial, and learn practical strategies so you can support students with DLD effectively.Important links:Click here to find out more about the support available at eLuma.eLuma online speech therapy.Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbookDownload other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources.phpSecondary school leaders: Join our in-person event in BirminghamWhere you’ll learn what really drives lesson avoidance in secondary schools - and leave with a practical whole-school framework for reducing internal truancy.. Register now.

Jun 11, 2024 • 13min
Essentials: Reduce Bullying By Building A Positive School Culture (With Alex Holmes)
Are you looking for ways to empower your students to stand up against bullying?In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we sit down with Alex Holmes, Deputy CEO of the Diana Award and Vice Chair of the National Anti-Bullying Alliance, to explore innovative strategies for student involvement in anti-bullying initiatives.Important links:Click here to hear all of episode 83Get your FREE Beacon School Support guide to helping children manage their strong emotionsGet our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbookDownload other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources.phpSecondary school leaders: Join our in-person event in BirminghamWhere you’ll learn what really drives lesson avoidance in secondary schools - and leave with a practical whole-school framework for reducing internal truancy.. Register now.

Jun 9, 2024 • 29min
Creative Approaches To Help Children Experiencing Sadness (With Clare Williams)
In this week's episode of School Behaviour Secrets we explore how to support pupils who are experiencing long term persistent feelings of sadness with our guest Clare Williams (co-author and co-creator of Jigsaw PSHE, and author of the Hamish and Milo well-being resources).We discuss the crucial role adults play in supporting students experiencing feelings of sadness, and share invaluable insights into fostering compassionate relationships and creating safe havens where students feel seen, heard, and understood.Important links:To find out more about Clare's Hamish and Milo well-being resources.Get your FREE Beacon School Support guide to helping children manage their strong emotionsGet our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbookDownload other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources.phpSecondary school leaders: Join our in-person event in BirminghamWhere you’ll learn what really drives lesson avoidance in secondary schools - and leave with a practical whole-school framework for reducing internal truancy.. Register now.

Jun 4, 2024 • 12min
Essentials: Understanding The Science Behind ADHD Medication With Dr. Walt Karniski
Deciding whether to medicate your child for ADHD is hard. How can you be sure it's the right call?This week on the School Behaviour Secrets podcast, we tackle this critical question with developmental paediatrician and author Dr. Walt Karniski. Together we discuss common myths about ADHD medication and explain how these treatments affect the brain to help you make a more informed choice for your child's well-being.Important links:Click here to hear all of episode 81Download Dr Walt Karniski's book here: ADHD Medication: Does It Work And Is It SafeGet our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbookDownload other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources.phpSecondary school leaders: Join our in-person event in BirminghamWhere you’ll learn what really drives lesson avoidance in secondary schools - and leave with a practical whole-school framework for reducing internal truancy.. Register now.

36 snips
Jun 2, 2024 • 36min
Using The PACE Approach For Effective Behaviour Management
Discover the PACE framework, a unique strategy for managing challenging behaviors in students with trauma backgrounds. It focuses on building empathy and relationships, steering away from traditional discipline methods. The significance of playfulness in resolving classroom conflicts comes to light, helping to de-escalate tensions and foster cooperation. Key elements like acceptance, curiosity, and empathy guide educators to better understand and support their students’ emotional needs, paving the way for a more supportive classroom environment.

May 27, 2024 • 13min
Quick-Fire Strategies: The De-Escalation Danger Zone
If you've ever found yourself in a situation where you have to de-escalate a heightened student, you'll know that it's hard work, it's super stressful for everyone.In this episode I'm going to talk through 3 key de-escalation concepts (the anger cycle, the de-escalation danger zone, and the valley of despair) that are essential to know for helping heightened pupils get back on top of their emotions.Important links:Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbookDownload other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources.phpSecondary school leaders: Join our in-person event in BirminghamWhere you’ll learn what really drives lesson avoidance in secondary schools - and leave with a practical whole-school framework for reducing internal truancy.. Register now.


