They Behave For Me

In a lively discussion, Adam and Amy dive into Channel 4's Educating Yorkshire, sharing their mixed emotional responses. They applaud the dedication of teachers and the leadership at the school, while also critiquing classroom dynamics where engagement is uneven. The duo contemplates the ethics of filming children and whether the show balances realism with entertainment. They emphasize the need for stronger behaviour systems and compassionate boundaries to enhance student outcomes, ultimately reflecting on the show's impact on public perceptions.

In this engaging discussion, Adam Robbins, an experienced science teacher and author specializing in teacher development, shares his insights on the struggles of middle leadership. He addresses the challenges faced by middle leaders and their importance in bridging logistical and strategic roles. Robbins stresses the need for effective communication between middle and senior leaders and the role of powerful teaching resources in enhancing performance. He emphasizes bi-directional accountability with students and the significance of spreading impactful ideas for lasting change.

Adam and Amy dive into the controversial topic of phone policies in schools and the implications of Conservative proposals on safeguarding. They explore the difference between attention builders and checks for listening, sharing practical strategies for enhancing student focus. The discussion on whether a single phone incident should jeopardize a school's Ofsted rating raises eyebrows. They also consider the challenges of inconsistent rule enforcement and the importance of leadership modeling to foster a positive school culture.

Adam and Amy dive into the challenges of managing behavior in poorly configured classrooms. They explore creative strategies like using seating plans and written starters to foster focus. The discussion includes the innovative 'one-two-three-ninety' routine, which helps students orient toward the teacher for better interaction. Additionally, they suggest practical tweaks like removing spinning chairs and setting up monitor-off cues to minimize distractions. Tune in for actionable tips to transform classroom management!

Jack Worth, Lead Economist at the National Foundation for Educational Research, dives into the complexities of teacher recruitment and retention. He analyzes how demographics and market forces shape the teaching landscape. Jack highlights the impact of the pandemic on teacher entry rates and discusses the critical factors that attract educators to the profession. He addresses the high stress levels faced by English teachers compared to their OECD peers and offers solutions for schools to enhance retention through improved working conditions and flexibility.

In light of the horrific attack at a synagogue in Manchester, Adam gives a 2000 year history of antisemitism, and explores how it has applied in England in the modern era. Following that, Amy takes on some attendance issues and explores some potential solutions.

Hosts dive into the challenges and nuances of classroom observations. They reflect on the shift from high-stakes to no-stakes peer drops for valuable feedback. Discussion includes the effective use of knowledge organisers in curriculum design and practical implementations in literature. They explore accountability, aligning peer observations with school policies, and the importance of tailored feedback. The risks of positive-only observations are critiqued, emphasizing the need for constructive criticism to foster growth.

Grainne Hallahan, a researcher and founder of TeacherTap, joins the hosts to delve into fascinating school behavior data. They discuss whether behavior is better in primary or secondary schools, revealing surprising insights. Grainne shares how mobile phone policies, like bans and pouch systems, impact distractions and compliance rates. The conversation also touches on uniform policies, like banning skirts, and their unexpected effects on behavior. Plus, they explore the rise of AI-assisted cheating and its implications for teachers.

Becky Allen, co-founder of the TeacherTapp survey app and an education expert, dives into the intricacies of assessment in education. She emphasizes that assessment should enhance learning and align with subject-specific knowledge. The conversation highlights the challenges teachers face, from attrition due to behavior issues to the influence of AI on personalized learning. Becky critiques traditional assessment methods and stresses the importance of relevant curriculum choices, questioning the value of obsolete content like Roman numerals.

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.