They Behave For Me What's the deal with booklets, and do they need to have the school's branding on them?
Sep 19, 2025
Discover the intriguing debate about the necessity of school branding on student booklets. Enjoy humorous anecdotes about winging lessons and ice cream tales from vacations. Explore how independent practice can foster resilience in students and the purpose behind observational practices like Pastor's Perch. The hosts also discuss the importance of evidence-based feedback in teaching and how quality core instruction can close learning gaps, all while keeping the conversation lively and engaging.
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Horrors Of 'Winged' Lessons And Token Gestures
- Amy recalls being told as an NQT to 'wing' lessons, which she found unethical and damaging in struggling schools.
- Adam recounts refusing to teach without paper during a misguided charity 'awareness' day.
Make Booklets Practical Not Cosmetic
- Use booklets to align teaching, cut cutting-and-pasting and reduce workload by providing structured, curriculum-aligned materials.
- Avoid mandated branding, colours or strict layouts because they waste teacher time and may be unaffordable for schools.
Standardise Curriculum Design, Not Branding
- If you insist on a common resource, implement a well-designed, pedagogical structure rather than policing fonts and colours.
- Use a consistent sequence (clarify → practice → check) that supports teaching, not aesthetics.
