Thinking Deeply about Primary Education

Amy How, a dedicated Canadian primary teacher with nearly 20 years of experience, shares her passion for mathematics education. She discusses the importance of building confidence in both students and teachers to enhance learning. The conversation highlights the foundational concepts critical for long-term success and explores the Rekenrek as a dynamic tool for improving mathematical sense-making. Amy emphasizes innovative teaching strategies that engage students while addressing the challenges faced by those aged 10 to 12, promoting a love for math through interactive methods.

Join Jake Cowling, a primary school teacher and expert in lesson design, as he shares invaluable insights into effective teaching practices grounded in cognitive science. He unpacks the essence of lesson design, emphasizing its importance in education. Jake discusses the challenges teachers face when implementing structured lesson plans and highlights the rewards that come from research-informed approaches. He also delves into the vital role of explicit vocabulary instruction in mathematics, ensuring students grasp key concepts early on.

Adam Smith, a dedicated primary teacher and leader, shares his expertise on the significance of Religious Education. He discusses the integration of multidisciplinary approaches in the curriculum and the importance of maintaining clear boundaries to enrich students' understanding. Themes of community and multiculturalism are explored, alongside the educational value of Islamic art. Smith also reflects on Christianity's complex relationship with war and peace, emphasizing the depth of faith, resilience, and cultural narratives within the primary curriculum.

In a captivating discussion, Stuart Welsh, an expert in primary education, reveals crucial strategies for supporting EAL pupils in mathematics. He highlights the unique challenges these learners face, from navigating language-heavy instructions to tackling abstract concepts. Stuart shares innovative techniques for making mathematical language accessible, such as bilingual glossaries and visual aids. Emphasizing the importance of inclusive environments, he offers practical advice to foster confidence and understanding, ensuring every student can succeed in math.

Naomi Pilling, an art curriculum writer and teacher trainer, discusses the crucial role of art education in primary schools. She explains how art fosters creativity and self-expression, emphasizing that every child benefits from engaging with visual arts. Naomi shares key principles for impactful teaching and insights on overcoming common challenges faced by educators. Additionally, she highlights the importance of nurturing observational skills and confidence in both teachers and students to unlock their artistic potential.

In this discussion, Josh Goodrich, an educator known for his insights on coaching in primary education, shares thought-provoking strategies to enhance teaching. He emphasizes effective scaffolding techniques to boost student engagement and understanding. Josh delves into the role of manipulatives in math education, advocating for deep comprehension over mere correct answers. Additionally, he addresses the challenges educators face in adapting to change and the importance of purposeful leadership and collaboration with parents to foster a positive learning environment.

In this engaging discussion, John O’Neill, Rector of The High School of Glasgow with nearly a decade of leadership experience, shares powerful insights into school leadership. He dives into the importance of building a positive school culture and the challenges of managing change. John discusses his personal journey in leadership, emphasizing a people-first approach and the need for authenticity. He also highlights strategies to empower staff and foster continuous professional growth, while emphasizing the significance of self-care for effective leadership.

Christopher Such, author of 'The Art and Science of Teaching Primary Reading' and the forthcoming 'Primary Reading Simplified', shares his passion for enhancing literacy education. He discusses his motivation for writing a new book and highlights key elements that make reading lessons successful. Listeners will learn effective strategies for assessing reading difficulties, curating high-quality texts, and fostering a reading culture in schools. Christopher's insights offer actionable advice for educators eager to adapt and improve their reading instruction methods.

Emma Lennard, a curriculum development specialist, and Seamus Gibbons, an executive principal overseeing teacher training, share their insights on curriculum sequencing. They discuss their inspiration for writing 'Sequencing the Primary Curriculum' and the challenges of designing effective curricula. Key strategies include making connections between subjects, addressing diverse learning needs, and offering guidance for schools revamping their approach. Their expert advice is invaluable for educators looking to enhance student outcomes and teaching practices.

Joe Austen, an early mathematics specialist, discusses the transformative power of foundational math education. He shares insights on how early math shapes a child’s cognitive growth and highlights the importance of understanding key concepts. The conversation explores the balance between conceptual understanding and procedural fluency in teaching. Joe emphasizes the role of manipulatives and play-based learning, promoting engaging activities to foster strong mathematical foundations in young children.