Education On Fire - Sharing creative and inspiring learning in our schools

Mark Taylor
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Sep 22, 2025 • 11min

Top 10 Educational Resources

Today we highlight 10 previous episodes and the educational resources created or shared by my guests.These include:Reading Writing and Spelling with Jane ConsidineLet's Learn About Science with Dr. Stephanie RyanArtis Foundation - Integrating the arts throughout learningNurture Resilience, Empathy and Global Citizenship with LyftaSir Linkalot - Spelling AppWHO SMARTED? Hit children's podcast with Jerry KolberC.H.A.M.P.S Mentoring with Vondale SingletonSatchel - Online Teaching and Learning ToolMarvellousMe - Parent Engagement AppSteer Education - Whole School Mental Health PlatformYou can download the FREE pdf with links to all the websites at https://www.educationonfire.com/
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Sep 15, 2025 • 18min

Can AI create an engaging summary of a book focused interview?

In advance of our Ger Graus season which will be based on his book Through a Different Lens - Lessons from a Life in Education I have created a summary podcast of our previous conversation (Ep 439) using NotebookLM. This is as - described on it's website - 'the AI research tool and thinking partner that can analyze your sources, turn complexity into clarity and transform your content'.You will hear 2 AI voices discuss and summarise our conversation about Ger's book. Why do this? Partly as a quick recap before we start the Ger Graus season but also to help me understand what is currently possible with AI in advance of our Education on Fire LIVE Stream shows that will focus on AI in education.To keep up to date with everything we are doing and download our FREE top 10 resources pdf please visit https://www.educationonfire.com/
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Sep 8, 2025 • 11min

Revolutionizing Educational Engagement: Join the Movement

During the autumn we will have a dedicated series exploring how education can change lives through the work of Professor Dr. Ger Graus and his book "Through a Different Lens: Lessons From a Life in Education."What You'll Hear:Real stories from teachers, parents, and mentorsPractical ways to help children discover who they really areHow communities can work together to improve educationSimple strategies that make a real difference in learningWe will structure the podcast around the chapters of the book, have LIVE Q&A shows and interview some inspirational people about how education supported their growth.Education works best when everyone gets involved - not just schools, but families and communities too. Throughout this season, we'll share conversations with people who are making education better for kids everywhere.Why This Matters:Every child deserves guidance that helps them grow into their authentic self. The educators and mentors we interview show us how to do exactly that, with wisdom gained from years of experience.Join the Conversation:Ready to be part of the education movement? Listen as we uncover the insights that can transform how we think about teaching and learning.educationonfire.comnape.org.ukcreativeamplifiers.substack.com
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Aug 11, 2025 • 17min

The Dawn of a New Era in Learning: What to Expect This Autumn

This podcast episode explains the forthcoming evolution of the Education on Fire podcast, as I, Mark Taylor, prepare to embark on an exciting new chapter with esteemed educator Professor Dr. Ger Graus OBE. Central to our discussion will be the exploration of innovative educational theories derived from Ger's autobiography, focusing on the concepts of connection, extension, and challenge in the learning process. We aim to illuminate the distinction between merely imparting knowledge and fostering genuine understanding, thereby empowering children to aspire to their fullest potential. Additionally, I express my profound gratitude to our longstanding sponsor, the National Association for Primary Education, whose unwavering support enables us to advance our mission of transforming educational experiences. As we anticipate our return on September 8th, I encourage our listeners to engage with us and share their thoughts on how we can best serve the educational community moving forward.Takeaways: The Education on Fire podcast serves as a platform for creative and inspiring learning globally. Listeners can expect a series of enlightening conversations focusing on educational transformation and innovation. The upcoming autumn season will feature discussions with Professor Dr. Ger Graus on impactful educational theories. The importance of nurturing children's aspirations through exposure to diverse learning experiences is emphasized throughout the podcast. The podcast intends to explore the intersection of education and artificial intelligence to enhance learning opportunities. Listeners are invited to contribute their preferences for future episodes, ensuring the content remains relevant and supportive. www.educationonfire.com
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Aug 4, 2025 • 43min

Green Schools Revolution

Green Schools Revolution is a three-year project launched in January 2023, hosted by SOS-UK and funded by the #iwill Fund. We help secondary school pupils to green their schools as part of the Department for Education's (DfE) Climate Change and Sustainability Strategy. Students develop whole-school Climate Action Plans, create Wilding Plans to bring nature back to their school grounds, and deliver Teach the Teacher sessions to help integrate climate education into the curriculum.I chat to Lucy Davies (project coordinator) and Jack Di Francesco (Education Manager).Takeaways: The Green Schools Revolution provides grants for schools to promote sustainability through rewilding projects, fostering environmental awareness among students. Students are increasingly aware of climate justice issues, yet their education often lacks comprehensive climate-related content, highlighting a significant gap in the curriculum. Young people's anxiety regarding climate change stems from a feeling of helplessness, as they often do not see actionable changes being made by their schools. Empowering students to lead climate education initiatives fosters a sense of ownership and agency, enabling them to influence their educational environment positively. The Green Schools Revolution includes programs like Teach the Teacher, which enables students to facilitate climate education discussions with their teachers and peers. Creating a sustainable school environment not only enhances educational experiences but also encourages students to adopt eco-friendly habits that extend beyond the classroom. Websitehttps://www.greenschoolsrevolution.uk/Social Media Informationhttps://www.youtube.com/@sosukcharityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/students-organising-for-sustainability/https://www.instagram.com/sosuk_charity/https://www.facebook.com/sosukcharityhttps://www.tiktok.com/@sosukcharityShow Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/🔥 Discover more about Education on Firehttps://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – How I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecamm🔥 Captivate.FM – My podcast hosthttps://educationonfire.com/captivate🔥 Descript – My Editing Toolhttps://educationonfire.com/descriptSome of the above are affiliate links, I may receive a small commission if you purchase via these but there is no cost increase to you. These links help support the channel so any clicks are greatly appreciated.
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Jul 28, 2025 • 43min

Helping People Get Smarter by Thinking Dumber

David Carson from Dumbify delves into the intriguing concept that embracing "dumb" thinking can often lead to innovative solutions. We explore how society has cultivated a reluctance to ask seemingly foolish questions, thereby stifling creativity and potential breakthroughs. Our conversation is enriched by anecdotes illustrating how historical figures, like Isaac Newton, harnessed the power of curiosity and unorthodox thinking to arrive at revolutionary ideas. We also reflect on personal experiences and methodologies that advocate for a shift in mindset—encouraging individuals to welcome and cultivate their "dumb" thoughts as a pathway to discovery and success. Takeaways: Throughout history, the concept of 'dumb' has surprisingly provided solutions to complex problems. As individuals gain more knowledge, they often realize how much they still do not know. Encouraging the asking of seemingly 'dumb' questions can lead to significant creative breakthroughs. Creative thoughts often stem from individuals attempting to replicate others but failing, thereby generating originality. Rewarding curiosity in educational settings can foster a more open and innovative learning environment. The practice of intentionally thinking 'dumb' can lead to the development of new and effective solutions. Websitedavid-carson.com dumbify.beehiiv.comShow Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/🔥 Discover more about Education on Firehttps://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – How I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecamm🔥 Captivate.FM – My podcast hosthttps://educationonfire.com/captivate🔥 Descript – My Editing Toolhttps://educationonfire.com/descriptSome of the above are affiliate links, I may receive a small commission if you purchase via these but there is no cost increase to you. These links help support the channel so any clicks are greatly appreciated.
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Jul 21, 2025 • 51min

Kapp Educational Therapy Group

EDUCATIONAL THERAPY For Learners 5th Grade to Adult with ADHD and Executive Functioning ChallengesRachel Kapp grew up in Los Angeles. She graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts with Honors in Sociology and minored in Jewish Studies. Rachel began tutoring students in high school, eventually choosing to pursue a career in education. For over six years, Rachel was a lead preschool teacher where she gained a firm foundation in explicit teaching. Rachel has been a tutor in private practice since 2004, working with students in a variety of subjects including all levels of math, reading, history and writing. After working with so many types of students over the years and realizing she was passionate about building relationships with and helping students who learn differently, Rachel decided to pursue Educational Therapy. She completed her coursework at the California State University, Northridge in December 2015 and Masters degree in December 2016. In her free time, Rachel loves spending time with her husband, Adam, sons, Elliot and Owen, and their dog, Fritzy, watching Cal Football, cooking for friends, and spinning.Rachel is a Board Certified Member of the Association of Educational Therapists. She is a co-founder and co-host of the Learn Smarter Podcast, a resource offering over 350 episodes of educational content for educators and families. Rachel is an active participant in ongoing education through the International Dyslexia Association and she is also trained in Wilson Reading Systems.Takeaways:Executive functioning skills are not inherent traits; they can be cultivated through dedicated learning and practice. Educational therapy should not be perceived as a permanent necessity; it aims to empower learners towards independence. Parents play a crucial role in educational therapy by stepping back, allowing their children to take initiative in their learning process. The distinction between educational therapy and tutoring lies in the focus on developing strategies rather than merely addressing academic content. The virtual landscape of educational therapy can foster just as meaningful connections as in-person sessions, debunking common misconceptions. Understanding and addressing underlying learning challenges can prevent significant achievement gaps from forming in learners. Websitewww.kappedtherapy.comSocial Media Information@kappedtherapy (IG)Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Discover more about Education on Fire https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – How I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecamm🔥 Captivate.FM – My podcast hosthttps://educationonfire.com/captivate🔥 Descript – My Editing Toolhttps://educationonfire.com/descriptSome of the above are affiliate links, I may receive a small commission if you purchase via these but there is no cost increase to you. These links help support the channel so any clicks are greatly appreciated.
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Jul 14, 2025 • 40min

At the heart of education is connection

Connecting Through Conversation: A Playbook for Talking with Students.Erika Bare has been an educator for over 20 years, currently serving as the Superintendent in the South Umpqua School District in Oregon. A special education teacher by training, she is passionate about supporting all students through individual supports to reach their limitless potential.Tiffany Burns loves working with kids. In her two decades in education, she taught elementary, middle, and high school students. Tiffany has been an administrator since 2012 and an elementary school principal for the past nine years. This year, she is on a professional sabbatical, teaching university pre-service teachers, while also connecting with educators across the nation, helping to grow the Connected Communicator Movement.Together they wrote Connecting Through Conversation: A Playbook for Talking with Students.We can offer $50 off our new online course, using the code: CTCPODCASTTakeaways: In our discussion, we explored the intricate dynamics of interpersonal relationships and their profound impact on individual well-being. We emphasized the significance of effective communication as a cornerstone for fostering understanding and collaboration among diverse groups. The episode highlighted the necessity of self-reflection and personal growth as essential components of leading a fulfilling life. We examined the role of resilience in overcoming adversity and the importance of maintaining a positive outlook in challenging times. Throughout the conversation, we underscored the value of empathy in enhancing connections and building a supportive community. Finally, we concluded by advocating for continuous learning and adaptability as vital traits in an ever-evolving world. Websitehttps://www.connectingthroughconversation.com/Social Media InformationFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090370647418&mibextid=LQQJ4dInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/connectingthroughconversation/Linked In Erika Barehttp://linkedin.com/in/erika-bare-6a72a6215Linkedin Tiffany Burnshttp://linkedin.com/in/tiffany-burns-90a50a274Twitterhttps://twitter.com/CTCPlaybook.comYoutubehttps://www.youtube.com/@CTCPlaybookShow Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Discover more about Education on Fire https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – How I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecamm🔥 Captivate.FM – My podcast hosthttps://educationonfire.com/captivate🔥 Descript – My Editing Toolhttps://educationonfire.com/descriptSome of the above are affiliate links, I may receive a small commission if you purchase via these but there is no cost increase to you. These links help support the channel so any clicks are greatly appreciated.
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Jul 6, 2025 • 31min

Revolutionizing Education for Students with Learning Challenges using Multi-sensory Techniques

Dr. Emily Levy is the founder and director of EBL Coaching, a specialized tutoring program that offers individualized one-on-one home, virtual, and on-site instruction using research-based, multi-sensory techniques. She is also the author of Strategies for Study Success, a 22-part student workbook series that teaches students strategies for test taking, note taking, reading comprehension, writing, summarizing, and executive functioning, along with the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham student workbook series, which helps students develop their fundamental decoding and spelling skills. Additionally, she is the author of Flags and Stars Multi-Sensory Math, a multi-sensory math program that helps students develop a stronger understanding of core math concepts, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and fractions. These workbooks are currently used at schools nationwide.Takeaways: Multi-sensory learning techniques significantly enhance the academic performance of students with learning difficulties. Engaging multiple senses during learning creates a more effective educational experience for children with special needs. Personalized tutoring, especially in one-on-one settings, allows for tailored instruction that meets individual student needs. The importance of a structured approach in education cannot be overstated, as it helps students build mastery in various skills. Challenges in traditional education systems often necessitate external tutoring for students with specialized learning requirements. Empowerment through small achievements is crucial for building self-esteem in students with learning disabilities. Websitehttps://eblcoaching.com/Social Media Informationhttps://www.facebook.com/EBLCoachinghttps://www.instagram.com/ebl_coaching/https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilylevy/Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Discover more about Education on Fire https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – How I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecamm🔥 Captivate.FM – My podcast hosthttps://educationonfire.com/captivate🔥 Descript – My Editing Toolhttps://educationonfire.com/descriptSome of the above are affiliate links, I may receive a small commission if you purchase via these but there is no cost increase to you. These links help support the channel so any clicks are greatly appreciated.
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Jun 30, 2025 • 38min

Purposeful Educator Connections: Five Principles to Strengthen Relationships with Students

Marcela Andrés serves as President and CEO of designEDengagement, PBC, a Latina-owned education consulting firm based in Texas on a mission to reimagine how educators, families, and community members partner to support the hopes and dreams of students. Previously, Marcela was a program director for a non-profit whose mission was to advocate for public education. She was also a third- and fourth-grade teacher at a bilingual elementary school.She is the author of Purposeful Educator Connections: Five Principles to Strengthen Relationships with Students. In the book, Marcela offers critical principles to deepen relationships with students, understand the importance of context beyond compliance, foster meaningful interactions, design high-quality learning environments, and partner with key stakeholders. Purposeful Educator Connections provides high-leverage practices, case studies, and reflection questions to help educators apply these principles to their practice, ultimately improving classroom culture and student outcomes.Takeaways: The discussion posits that zip codes should not determine an individual's destiny, emphasizing the importance of equity in educational opportunities. We assert that education is a non-linear journey, where each experience contributes uniquely to personal growth and career development. The podcast highlights the significance of educators in recognizing potential in students, often before they themselves are aware of it. We explore the crucial role of family and community engagement in the educational process, emphasizing that learning occurs beyond traditional classroom settings. The conversation underscores the necessity of self-care for educators, as their wellbeing directly influences their capacity to support students effectively. Lastly, we reflect on the transformative power of relationships in education, asserting that true learning flourishes in environments where individuals feel valued and seen. Websitehttps://www.designedengagement.com/Social Media InformationIG: https://www.instagram.com/molcajete_talk/LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcelaandres/Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Discover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – How I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecamm🔥 Captivate.FM – My podcast hosthttps://educationonfire.com/captivate🔥 Descript – My Editing Toolhttps://educationonfire.com/descriptSome of the above are affiliate links, I may receive a small commission if you purchase via these but there is no cost increase to you. These links help support the channel so any clicks are greatly appreciated.

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