Teachers Talk Radio

Andrew Alcock began his teaching career several years ago but, for various reasons did not complete his NQT year. Now he is back in the classroom, completing the ECF. Tonight, we discuss Andrew’s unique perspective on teaching and professional development.

Adam Robbins, an author and founder of a cognitive science-based teacher network, shares his insights on the pivotal role of middle leadership in creating joyful school environments. He emphasizes prioritizing student impact and fostering a positive culture that enhances team dynamics. Personal anecdotes highlight the profound effects educators have on students, while discussions on coaching methods reveal the necessity for effective communication. Robbins advocates for autonomy balanced with support, ultimately aiming to elevate overall joy in educational settings.

English teacher Belen Albarracin joined me to talk about the exciting collaborative projects she does with her learners, including TED-ED Talks and interactive choose-your-own-adventure stories.

'Getting CPD Right' hosted by Sarah Kate Towlson, featuring special guests Carole Noble, Assistant Head of Teaching and Learning and Dean Williams, Assistant Head. The show delves into best practices for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in both public and private education, highlighting the hurdles and challenges that school leaders, in the UK and internationally, face in getting it right for all staff. Through expert discussions and valuable insights, Sarah and her guests explore practical strategies to overcome these obstacles, empowering educators with the confidence, knowledge and tools they need to enhance their skills, support their teams, and drive meaningful improvements in their schools and classrooms.

On the last Saturday off the summer, Darren plans his goals for the term, talks through effective goal setting processes and gives you the space to join in and come up with your own goals for the next 16ish weeks.

Carl chats with Neil Rawes, an experienced secondary vice principal, about whether hope is making a comeback in schools. They discuss signs that life in schools may be getting better again ranging from the pay award to Ofsted reform and the forthcoming curriculum review.

Morgan and Tod discuss the wonderful whirlwind that is starting at a new school. They explore how it's more than just the initial insets and inductions—it's about deep acculturation and truly investing in the school's vision. How can a school make new staff feel valued and seen. Schools can create opportunities for extended training, leveraging data, social events with parents, focus groups with student leadership or seeing community outreach in action. This sets high expectations, but it also sets up new teachers for success.

Tom Rogers and Hannah Wilson host a one off special supported by Futurum Careers to discuss the career aspirations of young people, particularly in the areas of STEM (Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and SHAPE (social sciences, humanities and arts for people and the economy). Two incredible guests join the conversation; Julia Black, President of the British Academy, advisor to the Bank of England and Professor of Law and Professor Louise Archer of the Aspires Project and Professor of Sociology at UCL. In this far ranging conversation built for anyone interested in careers education, we explore how students choose future careers, which subjects are on the rise and fall, how can we open pathways to students to follow their dreams and how can schools and teachers use practical strategies to support students on their journeys. Free STEM and SHAPE resources are available via the Futurum website here: https://futurumcareers.com/stem-shape-activity-sheets

Rory Braddell, an expert in instructional design, dives deep into the fundamental aspects of creating effective educational materials. He explains the ADDIE model and the vital roles within an instructional design team. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding learning theories and the challenges posed by AI-generated content, which often lacks a human touch. Insightful discussions on data analysis, cognitive overload, and the iterative nature of instructional design reveal how teacher collaboration can enhance learning experiences.

Christopher talks with author, academic and zine-maker Dr Jeanne Scheper about the zine as a medium facilitating individual creative freedom; its connections with protest movements and alternative subcultures; and its value as a teaching tool in the university seminar room.