Teachers Talk Radio

Darren looks at the difference between self preservation and self care by doing a shallow-dive into two studies conducted during the Covid-19 pandemic.

In the Sunday Social, host Martin sits down with educator, editor, and writer Christopher Walker, Director of Studies at International House in Poland and editor of the IH Journal. Together, they delve into the evolving landscape of writing instruction in the digital age—from pen and paper to AI-assisted tools. They discuss how writing pedagogy has shifted from a product-focused model to process-driven approaches that emphasize brainstorming, drafting, and personal voice. Christopher shares practical strategies for making writing more engaging and meaningful, including the use of portfolios, personalization, and rethinking assessment in an AI-aware world. The conversation also explores how ChatGPT and similar tools can support—not replace—good teaching, with concrete examples for both classroom use and teacher development. Plus, hear about Christopher’s work on student publishing projects and how giving learners a real audience can transform motivation and outcomes. Brought to you in partnership with John Catt Educational. 🖋️ Topics include: Why teaching writing is not the same as testing writing How to encourage critical thinking and authentic voice The role of AI in writing classes Portfolio projects and student publishing Using reading texts to model good writing

Chris and Mo discuss how they, as business teachers, link with individuals and organisations outside of the classroom to enrich the offer and curriculum for students, particularly by developing a careers education. 

Tom Rogers is joined live by Catherine McKinnell MP to discuss latest government policy on the apprenticeships for teachers policy. The programme will now run over 9 months instead of 12. The government hopes this will lead to more schools offering the programme as it can be run over one academic year. Will this reduce rigour? We ask the questions in this TTR special interview. 

Tom Rogers is joined by leadership coach, writer, and the author of Box Clever: Quadrants to Change the Way We Live and Lead, Rachel Johnson. In this book, Rachel introduces a powerful quadrant-based framework that helps us think more clearly about everything from self-reflection and conflict to timing, energy and identity. Drawing on psychology, coaching and real-life experience, Box Clever invites readers to look at leadership and life through a more thoughtful, balanced lens. Grab your copy at the John Catt Bookshop here: https://www.johncattbookshop.com/products/quadrants (Get 20% off by using the code JCTTR2425). Watch the video version of this show here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktu7U1kHjhs&t=5s

2010-2025: The decade that forgot children? 

What is 'Pedagogy without Elbows'? Listen to my conversation about Learner Autonomy with Kirstie Jackson Wilms to find out. 

Host Tony Harwood is joined by Scott Lyons, union officer and former teacher, for a no-holds-barred conversation about violence in schools and its impact on teachers. Drawing on data from recent surveys and first-hand experiences, they explore the growing concerns around pupil-on-teacher aggression, the challenges of restorative practice, and the blurred lines between school and parental responsibility. The discussion also touches on the rise in misogynistic behaviour, the effects of the pandemic on pupil development, and the future of education in a world shaped by AI and shifting demographics. Sponsored by: John Catt Educational – visit the John Catt Bookshop and use code JCTTR2425 for 20% off professional development titles.

Join Famida Choudhary in this energizing episode of Teachers Talk Radio as she explores the power of action research with two insightful guests—Philip Anderson and Neha, both educators deeply invested in reimagining what impactful teaching looks like. From bridging classroom gaps to cultivating school-wide cultures of reflection, this conversation dives into how small, intentional changes can lead to lasting transformation. Whether you’re new to action research or looking to deepen your practice, this episode will leave you inspired to see yourself as a researcher—and your classroom as a lab of endless potential.

Rae and Lianne discuss how to settle into a new school as a teacher.  In this honest and entertaining show, our hosts dive into what it’s really like to start at a new school—whether it’s your first teaching job or you’re a seasoned educator switching settings. They swap stories about the emotional rollercoaster of being the “new person,” including staffroom anxieties, forgotten passwords, and the overwhelm of induction admin. Topics include how to build authentic relationships across the school (hint: get friendly with the caretaker and kitchen staff!), how to manage the mountain of new logins and systems, and why it's essential to keep an eye out for red flags in school culture—especially in your first weeks. There’s also plenty of humour and warmth, from tales of holiday adventures and hay fever woes to the trauma of tarantulas in Caribbean classrooms. Perfect listening for anyone preparing to start a new role, feeling nervous about fitting in, or just wanting a relatable slice of real-life teaching chat.