They Behave For Me

In this engaging conversation, John Dickens, the Editor of Schools Week and a seasoned expert in education policy, sheds light on Labour's ambitious education bill. He discusses its potential to reshape school frameworks while balancing the importance of child wellbeing with educational standards. The conversation dives into the complexities of school governance, the shifting control of new school establishments back to local authorities, and the nuances of teacher pay across varying educational contexts. Dickens also emphasizes the challenges rural schools face in this evolving landscape.

The hosts kick off with personal anecdotes, including holiday chaos and a challenging medical experience. They dive into the balance of fun and seriousness in lessons, discussing effective strategies to engage students outside traditional methods. There's a heartfelt critique of the emphasis on core subjects at the expense of creativity and the importance of safeguarding in education. They also share humorous resolutions for the new year aimed at enhancing classroom dynamics while reducing stress for educators.

The hosts dive into safeguarding training, questioning if it prioritizes legalities over genuine human interaction. They discuss the complexities of responding to children's disclosures, focusing on emotional support and effective communication. There's also a lively exchange about the balance between work and life in education, alongside personal anecdotes and humor. The challenges of teaching foundational knowledge, especially in Shakespeare, and the significance of understanding prerequisite knowledge are also explored, making for a rich and engaging conversation.

In a deep dive, Alistair Wood, CEO of Edapt, sheds light on the rise in complaints against teachers. With experience spanning across four countries, he discusses crucial employment law challenges facing educators today. Alistair offers practical tips for teachers to protect themselves in the workplace. He explores societal changes impacting trust in schools and the emotional toll of increasing allegations. The conversation emphasizes the need for balance between safeguarding children and supporting educators in a climate of scrutiny.

The hosts dive into the controversial new report card proposals from Ofsted, raising eyebrows about transparency and effectiveness. They humorously critique the challenges of Progress 8 and the impact of color blindness in education. A lively debate ensues over the complexities of discovery-based learning versus structured teaching methods, emphasizing the need for expert guidance. The conversation blends insightful critique with playful banter, making for an engaging exploration of current educational policies.

In this conversation, Sam Freedman, a renowned political commentator and author of "Failed State," dives into the complexities of education policy. He highlights the disconnect between government announcements and the reality teachers face. Sam discusses the rising tide of educational inequities and how socioeconomic challenges impact students' progress. He critiques the removal of standardized assessments and advocates for comprehensive reforms to improve educational outcomes. With humor and insight, he also touches on the importance of long-term planning for education policymakers.

Adam and Amy tackle the tricky issue of educational policies that clash with personal ethics. They share humorous tales about workplace rumors while engaging in light banter. With a critical lens, they discuss the repetitive cycle of failed educational policies, like the ineffective rollout of laptops. The hosts also explore what makes an effective leader in schools, debating the balance between experience and innovation. Lastly, they touch on the challenges educators face in navigating job markets and the commuting woes that come with it.

The podcast dives into the debate over the relevance of Shakespeare in modern education. The hosts explore if replacing classic literature with contemporary texts neglects cultural heritage. They discuss the decline in reading for pleasure among teenagers and the impact of education on this trend. The conversation also touches on the challenges of teaching poetry, highlighting the importance of oracy skills. Personal anecdotes add a relatable touch as they navigate educational policies and the emotional struggles tied to them.

Stuart Lock, CEO of Advantage Schools, shares his insights from a rich background in education as a teacher and leader. He dives into pressing issues like the current state of curriculum and the challenges of maintaining school attendance, especially in the aftermath of COVID-19. Stuart critiques superficial reforms and emphasizes the need for substantive educational changes. He also discusses the emotional complexities leaders face during school inspections and the resilience required to lift underperforming schools, shaping a brighter future for students.

Join Professor Mick Waters, a seasoned educator, David Cameron, an independent education consultant, and leadership expert Adam Robbins as they dive into the legacy of Tim Brighouse. They discuss the profound impact of the London Challenge initiative on school collaboration and student outcomes. The conversation highlights the importance of positive classroom environments and teacher autonomy. Additionally, they explore a tribute book featuring diverse educator perspectives and emphasize the necessity of empathy and human connection in fostering inclusive education.