The Unteachables Podcast

In this episode, I explore one of the simplest yet most powerful tools in your emotional piggybank investment toolkit: positive phone calls home. These small acts of connection can have a monumental impact!IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:Why positive phone calls are a game-changer, including how they build trust and transform relationships with students and their families.The impact on students who display challenging behaviours, explaining why these children often miss out on positive recognition and how this small step can change their narrative.A simple action plan for making a positive call, with step-by-step guidance and a script to help you get started.The ripple effect of connection, describing how a single phone call can spark long-term behaviour change and stronger communication.Your quick-win challenge this week:Commit to just one positive call home. It doesn’t need to be elaborate or lengthy, just heartfelt. Use the script provided in this episode to introduce yourself, share specific positives, and open the door for future communication.Connection is the cornerstone of teaching. Behaviour change will not happen overnight, but every small step matters. Start with one moment of connection, one positive call, and one narrative shift. You’ve got this, wonderful teacher!Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!RESOURCES AND MORE SUPPORT:Shop all resourcesJoin The Behaviour ClubMy book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour BootcampFree guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:Follow on Instagram @the.unteachablesCheck out my website

Does this sound familiar? The final moments of your lesson feel chaotic... unfinished, rushed work, students hovering by the door, mess everywhere, disruption, noise, and disorganisation leaving you feeling overwhelmed and frustrated?If this sounds all too familiar, you are not alone. The good news is that with consistent, simple exit routines, you can transition out of your lesson calmly and purposefully without feeling like a bouncer at the door.IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:1.  Why exit routines are essential:Small, consistent steps at the end of a lesson do more than tidy up; they reinforce engagement, help wrap up the learning, and make classroom transitions less stressful.2. My 3 non-negotiable exit routines:Self-reflection for early finishers – Teach students to ask, "Am I really done?" with an anchor chart that encourages independence and self-checking.Plenaries that stick – Wrap up the learning in a way that reinforces key concepts and expectations without falling into the trap of "death by plenary."The ‘row by row you go’ method – Use a clear, calm system for exiting the classroom that ensures it stays tidy and ready for the next group.3. Practical tools to streamline your routines:From self-reflection prompts to ready-to-go plenary resources, learn how to save time while keeping students engaged and ensuring smooth transitions.When you embed these three routines into every lesson, you can:✅ Reinforce behaviour and work expectations consistently✅ Avoid the chaos that often accompanies lesson endings✅ Create a calm, controlled environment that allows for smooth transitionsReady to take the stress out of your lesson endings? Grab the resources mentioned in this episode inside The Behaviour Club or check out:The Exit Routine Bundle: the-unteachables.com/exitThe Early Finishers Bundle: the-unteachables.com/earlyfinishersHave a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!RESOURCES AND MORE SUPPORT:Shop all resourcesJoin The Behaviour ClubMy book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour BootcampFree guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:Follow on Instagram @the.unteachablesCheck out my website

This week’s challenge is all about warm welcomes. While it sounds simple, doing it with intention and consistency can completely transform the culture and community in your classroom.IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:Why warm welcomes matter, and how greeting each student contributes to their emotional piggy bank, boosts buy-in, and improves behaviour.The power of routines, and why predictability helps students come to class more regulated and ready to learn.Breaking negative cycles, and how a consistent, personal greeting can help reach even the toughest students.Practical tips, including easy ways to make warm welcomes fun, personal, and consistent even on chaotic days.QUICK WIN CHALLENGE:This week, stand at the door and warmly welcome each student as they enter.Keep it simple by using a smile, eye contact, and their name.Add novelty by letting students choose their own greetings, such as a wave, fist bump, or handshake.Use visual prompts like a greetings poster on the wall, which can make the routine fun and help you stay consistent on busy days.This is not about being fancy. It is about being intentional and consistent, showing each student that they are seen and valued as part of your classroom community.Head here to grab my ready-made warm welcomes posters!Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!RESOURCES AND MORE SUPPORT:Shop all resourcesJoin The Behaviour ClubMy book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour BootcampFree guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:Follow on Instagram @the.unteachablesCheck out my website

Feeling challenged by a hard-to-reach student? You’re not alone! Learn how to reset your mindset and embrace a fresh start for the school year. Discover the importance of having open, collaborative conversations to build trust and connection. Small actions can lead to big changes in your relationship with that tough student. Plus, get practical strategies to create a positive ripple effect in the classroom. Remember, every little step counts toward fostering both growth and success!

Heading back to school? Discover top strategies for setting classroom expectations while maintaining a positive vibe. Learn why it's vital to create buy-in from day one, and why the advice to 'not smile until Easter' misses the mark. Uncover three essential non-negotiables for the first week, like learning names and using icebreakers. Plus, explore how to turn rules into a living dialogue, fostering a culture where students feel safe, seen, and heard.

As 2024 wraps up, there's a heartfelt discussion on the vital difference between resting and truly rejuvenating. The conversation highlights the five basic needs that fill our cups, such as love, fun, and freedom. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their feelings and find intentional ways to nurture themselves during the holidays. The importance of prioritizing well-being is underscored, reminding educators how essential self-care is for their teaching journey. It's a warm reminder to reconnect with what makes you feel whole.

The festive season can be a fun time for us as teachers, and our students—but not for everyone. While many of us are busy planning celebrations and gifts, some of our students face unique challenges. For them, the holiday season might bring stress, instability, or hardship. In this episode, I offer a compassionate reminder about the reality some of our students face and how we, as educators, can make a difference in their experience.IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:The reality of the holiday season for some students – why it’s not a joyful time for everyone.The impact of the holidays on student behaviour – understanding increased reactivity, withdrawal, and emotional dysregulation.Practical steps to support students during this season – strategies for consistency, connection, and fostering felt-safety in your classroom.The holidays can highlight the disparity in experiences among students, and for some, your classroom might be the only consistent, safe space they know. By recognising this and doubling down on your routines, expectations, and community-building, you can offer them much-needed stability. Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!RESOURCES AND MORE SUPPORT:Shop all resourcesJoin The Behaviour ClubMy book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour BootcampFree guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:Follow on Instagram @the.unteachablesCheck out my website

As the term winds down, classroom energy can wane. Discover five insightful questions designed to spark gratitude and positivity among students. Learn why gratitude matters for both teachers and students. Get tips on engaging even the most reluctant participants. Reflect on what you're grateful for daily, what makes you laugh, and what brings you joy each morning. Modeling your own responses can help students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts. It's all about fostering connections and enhancing the classroom vibe!

Ever had a class party or more relaxed and unstructured activities spiral into mayhem??? That doesn't mean you shouldn't do it, it just means you need to do it right! In today's bite I take you through how adding structure to your festive plans can keep things fun, calm, and enjoyable for everyone (yourself included!).IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:Why end-of-year celebrations can feel overwhelming: Understanding what makes this time of year tricky.How to pair fun with predictability: Simple strategies to create structure while still enjoying the moment.Practical engagement tips: Ideas to keep students focused and reduce chaos during activities.Celebrate away, but remember: Pair the party with predictability 🎄Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!RESOURCES AND MORE SUPPORT:Shop all resourcesJoin The Behaviour ClubMy book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour BootcampFree guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:Follow on Instagram @the.unteachablesCheck out my website

Struggling with end-of-year classroom chaos? You're not alone! Discover why this time can be so challenging for both students and teachers. Learn about three engaging games designed to channel student energy in a fun and productive way. Embrace the festive atmosphere while maintaining control and boosting class morale. Plus, get motivated with strategies to keep energy high and connections strong in the classroom. It’s the perfect time to thrive, not just survive!