Teachers Talk Radio

Our schools are failing and it's nothing new. The Friday Morning Break with John Gibbs

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.

Positive Thinking and What's Great About Teaching: The Twilight Show With Maxine

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. 

How to teach spelling effectively: The Late Show with Lucy Neuburger and Spelling Shed

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

Constructing the Feminist Seminar Room: The Late Show with Christopher Vowles

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

Homeschooling, Clipboards, School turnaround: The Late Show with Tom Rogers

In this show, we first explore all things home education with Katie Finlayson, a home educator with 14 years experience of teaching her four children at home. What is home education like? Is it a good or bad thing for the future? We explore home school curriculums, rules and expectations, enrichment and so much more. 
In part 2, we delve into the journey of a school in the throes of change with Headteacher David Scales. We start with a conversation about active observation using clipboards and the implementation of other teaching strategies. David candidly discusses the strategies and ethos driving the school's evolution, from enforcing a consistent dress code to implementing structured behavioral policies. He opens up about the challenges faced, including his personal experience of a student assault, and underscores the importance of building trust and setting clear expectations for both students and staff. We explore the delicate balance between order and individuality for staff and students, the significance of attendance and the social contract of education. Tune in for a deep dive into the realities of school leadership and the pursuit of excellence in challenging circumstances.
 
This show is supported by John Catt Educational.

The Monday Morning Break with Marie Greenhalgh: The Power of music

Join Aaron and I as we talk about music and how it can support our wellbeing, develop our confidence and live in the moment. " Music helps us to be ourselves"

Parental Involvement in Education: The Friday Morning Break with Poppy Gibson

In this episode, Poppy is joined by inspirational Year 4 teacher Nick Huxley, who shares his recent Masters dissertation research study with us. Nick talks about what doing a Masters whilst being a teacher was like, and how research makes him feel empowered. Are you thinking about engaging in postgraduate study? Listen to this show and you may just be convinced to go for it!

The PFI scandal and school budgets: Education Tonight with Brent Poland and Adam Spence

Welcome to another enlightening episode with your hosts, Brent Poland and Adam Spence. In today's deep dive, we unravel the intricate web of the Private Finance Initiative (PFI) crisis in British schools. Beginning with a concise overview of PFIs in education, Brent and Adam navigate the repercussions on school budgets, providing real-life examples and anecdotes from educators on the front lines. Breaking down the complexities of PFI financial structures, they analyze the long-term implications and challenges schools face in meeting these obligations. The hosts explore government responses, potential policy changes, and alternative funding models.

Teacher training today: How effective are the accelerated pathways? The Wednesday Twilight Show with Michelle Hinds

 
Michelle Hinds and guests, Hope Fashina, Lauren Bassett, and Ewan Goddard, discuss the strengths and areas for development in teaching training provision today. A frank and reflective discussion.

The importance of PSHE in schools: The Sunday Social with Anna Hudson

Anna Hudson discusses the future of PSHE in schools with two guests; Malarvilie Krishnasamy and Oscar Pimlett.