

Education On Fire - Sharing creative and inspiring learning in our schools
Mark Taylor
Do you feel the education system is sucking the life out of you and the pupils you serve? I think many of us wish we could click our fingers and make it fit for purpose. A place of growth with shared learning that empowers pupils to be their best selves, so they can create a world they want to inhabit now and in the future.
While a magic wand or a visionary politician might sound like the answer I believe change is already happening. Educators are changing futures one conversation at a time. New technology and the environments where we learn are beginning to look different both in and out of the classroom. I hope you are seeing this first hand and are excited about what you can share with your pupils. We are having conversations, sharing organisations and communities that are supporting education in a way that you may have not experienced.
Educational change will come from us all working in way that supports the best interests of each of our pupils, personalised learning. Governments and policy makers will follow when they see fully how it can be different. So let us teach, coach, mentor and create an environment that fuels every child with feedback, inspiration, resilience and empowerment. The Education on Fire community is shining the torch, so no matter where you are in the world or how you are supporting children this podcast is here for you.
‘Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.’
While a magic wand or a visionary politician might sound like the answer I believe change is already happening. Educators are changing futures one conversation at a time. New technology and the environments where we learn are beginning to look different both in and out of the classroom. I hope you are seeing this first hand and are excited about what you can share with your pupils. We are having conversations, sharing organisations and communities that are supporting education in a way that you may have not experienced.
Educational change will come from us all working in way that supports the best interests of each of our pupils, personalised learning. Governments and policy makers will follow when they see fully how it can be different. So let us teach, coach, mentor and create an environment that fuels every child with feedback, inspiration, resilience and empowerment. The Education on Fire community is shining the torch, so no matter where you are in the world or how you are supporting children this podcast is here for you.
‘Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.’
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 16, 2024 • 53min
Teach to Work: Building a Pathway from Classroom to Career
Teach to Work: How a Mentor, a Mentee, and a Project Can Close the Skills Gap in America.Patty Alper shares her insights on how mentorship can significantly bridge the skills gap in education and empower students to achieve their first successes. With over 20 years of mentoring experience, she emphasizes the transformative power of project-based learning, where students take the lead in defining their projects and learning through real-world applications. Patty's highlights the importance of mentors who can share their own journeys, including failures and fears, to inspire students and help them build confidence. She discusses her book, "Teach to Work," which serves as a training program for mentors, providing them with the tools needed to effectively guide students in various fields, including STEM and entrepreneurship. Through collaborative efforts with businesses, Patty envisions a future where mentorship becomes integral to education, fostering a community of support that benefits students, mentors, and companies alike.Takeaways: Patty Alper emphasizes the importance of mentorship in helping students achieve their first successes. Mentorship not only empowers students but also enhances confidence and practical skills through project-based learning. The connection between mentors and students is crucial for bridging the skills gap in education. Real-life experiences shared by mentors can inspire students to pursue their goals confidently. Companies are eager to participate in mentorship programs, benefiting both students and their own workforce development. Project-based mentoring allows students to take ownership of their learning while applying classroom knowledge. Websitehttps://teachtowork.com/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🔥 London School of Public Relations – https://educationonfire.com/lsprA comprehensive 1-day CPD-accredited certificated Podcasting course, prepares you in conceptualising, producing, and distributing engaging audio and video podcasts tailored to your target audience. Explore techniques for vocal delivery, microphone usage, and audio editing to achieve professional-quality recordings.Some 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.Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/

Dec 9, 2024 • 45min
Unleashing Educational Equity: Dr. Almitra L. Berry's Journey to Empower Marginalized Learners
Dr. Almitra L. Berry is a nationally recognized speaker, author, and consultant focused on the education of culturally and linguistically diverse learners in America’s K12 education system. Her research focuses on equity and academic achievement for marginalized learners – particularly in majority-of-color, low-wealth, large, urban school districts. She hosts the podcast, Educational Equity Emancipation; is the author of the book, Effecting Change for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Learners, now in its second edition. Her upcoming books Equitable Classroom Practices for Culturally & Linguistically Diverse Learners, (coming this fall) and Teaching Multilingual Speakers of Sociocultural Languages along with numerous other articles focus on educational equity and instructional practices for classroom educators.She is the content expert for multilingual development in Perfection Learnings Connections Literature and equity consultant for Savvas Learning’s Experience Science.Takeaways: The Educational Equity Emancipation Podcast addresses the challenges faced by marginalized learners in public schools. Dr. Almitra L. Berry emphasizes the importance of creating culturally competent educators who connect with students. Teachers should strive to create psychologically safe spaces within classrooms for optimal learning. Feedback is a gift that can inspire growth and resilience in both educators and students. Connection with students on a personal level can significantly enhance their learning experience. Diverse methods of assessment allow students to express their understanding beyond traditional essays. Websitehttps://www.patreon.com/3epodcastSocial Media Information@almitraberry - LinkedIn, Facebook, Threads, Instagram & TikTokDiscover 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🔥 London School of Public Relations – https://educationonfire.com/lsprA comprehensive 1-day CPD-accredited certificated Podcasting course, prepares you in conceptualising, producing, and distributing engaging audio and video podcasts tailored to your target audience. Explore techniques for vocal delivery, microphone usage, and audio editing to achieve professional-quality recordings.Some 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.Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Mentioned in this episode:London School of Public Relations - Podcasting Course with Mark TaylorThe 1-day Essentials of Podcasting Certificated short course is highly practical and packed full of useful information to get you on the road to producing your own professional podcasts. The Podcasting course will help you to create, edit, deliver and promote your podcast. The course also provides useful tips and tricks from industry experts on producing professional and effective results.LSPR

Dec 2, 2024 • 49min
How to Love Teaching Despite the Challenges: Insights from Renès Lophanor
Renès Lophanor's new book "I Still Love Teaching Despite Having All The Reasons In The World To Quit” delves into the heart of educational reform, focusing on student engagement and innovative teaching methods. It’s a reflection of his two-decade long journey as a teacher, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs of the profession. Takeaways: The importance of building personal relationships with students to foster respect and understanding. Teachers often leave the profession due to lack of support and overwhelming administrative burdens. Maintaining a balance between teaching and personal life is crucial for long-term happiness. Engaging students through collaboration enhances their learning experience and builds essential life skills. Inspiring students can lead to greater resilience and empowerment in their lives. Teaching should focus on positive aspects, despite the challenges faced in the education system. Websitehttps://reneslophanor.com/Social Media Informationwww.instagram.com/reneslophanor_author/www.facebook.com/RenesLophanorDiscover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tip https://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – See how I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecamm🔥 Captivate.FM - My podcast hosthttps://educationonfire.com/captivateLondon School of Public Relations - https://educationonfire.com/lsprA comprehensive 1-day CPD-accredited certificated Podcasting course, prepares you in conceptualising, producing, and distributing engaging audio and video podcasts tailored to your target audience. Explore techniques for vocal delivery, microphone usage, and audio editing to achieve professional-quality recordings.Some 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.Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Membership is open to all who have a concern for the quality of primary education and the growth and development of children between birth and the age of 13. NAPE offer both individual and whole school membership.Mentioned in this episode:London School of Public Relations - Podcasting Course with Mark TaylorThe 1-day Essentials of Podcasting Certificated short course is highly practical and packed full of useful information to get you on the road to producing your own professional podcasts. The Podcasting course will help you to create, edit, deliver and promote your podcast. The course also provides useful tips and tricks from industry experts on producing professional and effective results.LSPR

Nov 25, 2024 • 52min
The Power of Parenting: Attitude, Love, and Lifelong Learning
Dr. John Chanaca has over 42 years of teaching/counseling experience in PA and SC public schools. After completing his bachelor's and master's Degrees in elementary education, he taught in various elementary and middle schools at multiple locations with different socioeconomic and cultural groups. He obtained his certification in counseling from Marywood University in PA. John also holds a certificate in public School administration from Penn State University. In addition, he has been a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) since 1985 and has a private Christain Marriage and Family Practice.John received his Doctorate in Education from the University of South Carolina (1992), concentrating in curriculum and instruction. In October 1998, Dr. Chanaca was selected as a Fulbright Memorial Fund Scholar to study the educational system in Japan. This trip inspired Dr. Chanaca to begin writing the Super Student Program. This program was designed to improve, recognize and celebrate student achievement and behavior.He is a co-author of the AGS program Peer Pals. This program has received several national and state awards. Peers Pals is a motivational program for elementary school students focusing on positive learning attitudes and self-esteem in peer-helping situations.He has taught Adult Sunday School for over 30 years and is involved in The English Cafe, a lay Christian missionary program sharing the Christian Gospel via Zoom worldwide.GLOBAL BOOK AWARDS WINNING AUTHOR 2024 "Humor & Heart"Takeaways: Raising children is a collective responsibility involving parents, teachers, and communities. Love is an action word; it's essential to demonstrate love through actions, not just words. A child's success is influenced by their parents' attitudes and the environment they create. Parents must believe in their child's potential and provide a supportive learning environment. Your attitude shapes your experiences; it's more crucial than the events themselves. Effective parenting involves teaching children essential life skills and encouraging them to be lifelong learners. Websitehttps://www.mjchanacapublishing.comSocial Media Informationfacebook.com/profile.php?id=100089699787125Instagram.com/mjchanacapublishingtwitter.com/mjchanacapubishYOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@mjchanacapublishinglinkedin.com/in/john-chanaca-04b7a7175Tiktok drjohnchanaca (@drjohnchanaca) | TikTokDiscover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Explore the podcasthttps://www.educationonfire.com/listen🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – See how I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecammSome 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.Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Membership is open to all who have a concern for the quality of primary education and the growth and development of children between birth and the age of 13. NAPE offer both individual and whole school membership.

Nov 18, 2024 • 38min
Finding Your Voice: Supporting Complex Kids with Community and Courage
Michelle Choairy is a mom of a complex kid. She has been her son’s best advocate and has learned through the years what it takes to get the best care for her child. She is the Founder of Collective Wisdom for Complex Kids, a support group for mothers with children with disabilities. She has a passion for helping families re-evaluate and prioritize their dynamics, along with guiding them from confusion to clarity while raising complex children. Takeaways: Michelle emphasizes the importance of self-care for parents of complex kids, reminding them that neglecting their own well-being can negatively impact their children. Building a supportive community of other parents is crucial for navigating the challenges of raising neurodivergent children. The Thrive method focuses on teamwork and effective communication with medical and educational professionals to advocate for your child's needs. Celebrating small victories and milestones, no matter how minor they seem, is vital for maintaining a positive outlook during difficult times. Parents need to learn to navigate the healthcare and educational systems to ensure their children receive the necessary support and resources. The journey of raising a complex child often requires changing expectations and embracing the unique path each family takes. Websitewww.wisdom4complexkids.comSocial Media Informationwww.instagram.com/michelle.choairy/www.facebook.com/wisdom4complexkidswww.wisdom4complexkids.online/lm-download-v1-8531Discover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Explore the podcasthttps://www.educationonfire.com/listen🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – See how I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecammSome 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.Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Membership is open to all who have a concern for the quality of primary education and the growth and development of children between birth and the age of 13. NAPE offer both individual and whole school membership.

Nov 11, 2024 • 38min
Unlocking Potential: How Middle School MBA Transforms Young Minds
John Foster is an author, executive, angel investor, and lifelong student of markets, John’s career failed its way through process engineering, operations, business management, M&A, and corporate strategy; finally failing big enough to exit. He now teaches kids the lowdown on business and entrepreneurship, hoping they will fail bigger and sooner.John discusses the transformative approach of Middle School MBA, a curriculum designed to teach middle school students advanced business and economic concepts. He challenges traditional educational methods, questioning why students aren't leaving high school with a solid grasp of subjects like calculus or business principles, and highlights the need for a curriculum that prepares them for real-world applications. He believes in confronting failure as a vital part of learning, encouraging students to embrace challenges and learn from setbacks. The conversation delves into the significance of fostering critical thinking and resilience in students, ultimately aiming to make learning more relevant and engaging.Takeaways: The traditional educational system often prioritizes the needs of teachers over the students. Students should be equipped to understand complex subjects like business and economics from a young age. Failure is an essential part of learning, and students should be encouraged to confront it. By using innovative teaching methods, we can make business principles accessible to middle schoolers. Empowering teachers to teach advanced concepts can lead to better student engagement and understanding. Resilience and perseverance are key traits that students need to develop for lifelong success. Websitewww.middleschoolmba.comSocial Media Informationhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/john-rock-foster-12813341/Discover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Explore the podcasthttps://www.educationonfire.com/listen🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – See how I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecammSome 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.Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Membership is open to all who have a concern for the quality of primary education and the growth and development of children between birth and the age of 13. NAPE offer both individual and whole school membership.

Nov 4, 2024 • 26min
My 1st AI Generated Podcast
Today I wanted to share with you my 1st AI generated podcast. Why do this? I wanted to see what was possible and if it in anyway will be helpful for me and you in the future.I used https://notebooklm.google - added my website and details of the last few Education on Fire podcasts and asked it to create a recap show for you.It produced a 23 minute episode and created it in less than 5 minutes. It has 2 hosts and they discuss insights and takeaways from the last few podcasts. Let me know what you think. Does it share value and key takeaways? Is the dialogue engaging and are you able/willing to listen to it all?This like all AI is a tool and I'm not sure how or when I will use it again but as a first experiment I think it does at pretty impressive job!Discover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Explore the podcasthttps://www.educationonfire.com/listen🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – See how I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecammSome 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.Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Membership is open to all who have a concern for the quality of primary education and the growth and development of children between birth and the age of 13. NAPE offer both individual and whole school membership.AI generated summary.This episode introduces Mark Taylor's first AI-generated podcast, showcasing the potential of artificial intelligence in creating engaging educational content. Mark explores how AI can summarize and recap valuable insights from previous episodes, emphasizing the exciting possibilities that lie ahead in the realm of learning. The discussion highlights the importance of storytelling, emotional intelligence, and innovative teaching methods, featuring various educators and their transformative practices. Listeners are invited to reflect on the content and consider how these new tools can enhance their own learning experiences. Tune in for a fascinating journey through the evolving landscape of education and the role of technology in shaping it.Companies mentioned in this episode: Notebook lm Education on Fire Education on Fire podcast Discovery Education Elephant Learning Mathematics Academy Advanced Glazings

Oct 28, 2024 • 46min
From Classroom to Creativity: Redefining Learning with Douglas Robbins
Douglas Robbins is a passionate writer and author, he discovered the power of words at a young age. Fuelled by a deep connection to language, he dedicated himself to writing and has authored five captivating books. Douglas also has a podcast for seekers looking to improve themselves and the world.The discussion between Mark Taylor and Douglas Robbins tackles the essential question of what education should truly encompass in the 21st century.Douglas shares his conviction that traditional education systems often fail to address the emotional and psychological needs of students, leaving them ill-prepared for adulthood. He articulates a vision of education that fosters individualism and creativity, suggesting that schools should serve as environments where children can explore their identities and passions. Through personal anecdotes, Robbins illustrates how emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in one's ability to succeed in life, stressing that a well-rounded education must include lessons on handling emotions, relationships, and personal finances. By highlighting the disconnect between educational practices and the real-world skills needed for success, Robbins challenges listeners to rethink their views on what constitutes valuable knowledge and encourages a more compassionate and comprehensive approach to teaching.Takeaways: Education should focus on emotional intelligence and personal growth, not just academic skills. Children often struggle with navigating emotions, and schools should teach emotional awareness skills. Individuality in education is crucial; each child has unique strengths and interests. The importance of connecting with one's authentic self is key to personal development. Creativity in education is essential for solving complex problems in today's world. Finding a supportive community helps individuals thrive and express their true selves. Websitehttps://douglasrobbinsauthor.comSocial Media InformationFB- https://www.facebook.com/douglasrobbinsauthorIPodcast- https://www.podpage.com/TheDouglasRobbinsShow/Discover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Explore the podcasthttps://www.educationonfire.com/listen🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – See how I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecammSome 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.Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Membership is open to all who have a concern for the quality of primary education and the growth and development of children between birth and the age of 13. NAPE offer both individual and whole school membership.

Oct 21, 2024 • 36min
Connecting Through Stories: Lucinda Sage-MidGorden's Journey in Education and Podcasting
Lucinda has been a story lover since she and her family watched TV and movies together. Her father taught her how to find the deeper layers of a story. This love prompted her to pursue a double major BA in Religious Studies and Theatre and Speech, a MA in Theatre Arts, and finally a MAEd so she could share her love of stories with her students. She grew up in the Pacific Northwest but has lived in Southern Arizona for over 28 years moving there after a three month trip circumnavigating the globe.Now completely retired, Lucinda writes her weekly blog Sage Woman Chronicles, is working on her second novel, manages her Patreon Community and Apple subscriptions as well as producing the bi-weekly podcast, Story-Power.Takeaways:The podcast emphasizes the importance of storytelling in understanding human emotions and connections.Lucinda's journey highlights how arts education can empower students to express themselves creatively.The shift towards STEM subjects in education often overlooks the value of arts and humanities.Empowerment and resilience are crucial for students to navigate their personal challenges effectively.Lucinda's mentors inspired her to embrace her passions and pursue a career in education.The conversation underscores that learning is a lifelong process filled with valuable lessons.Websitehttps://sagewoman.life/Social Media Informationwww.facebook.com/lsagemidgordenwww.instagram.com/sagewomanwww.linkedin.com/in/lucinda-sage-midgorden-5349561a/www.youtube.com/@story-powerpodcastbylucind4149Discover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Explore the podcasthttps://www.educationonfire.com/listen🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – See how I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecammSome 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.Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Membership is open to all who have a concern for the quality of primary education and the growth and development of children between birth and the age of 13. NAPE offer both individual and whole school membership.

Oct 14, 2024 • 41min
Immersive learning with Discovery Education
Discovery Education is the worldwide edtech leader whose state-of-the-art digital platform supports learning wherever it takes place. Through its award-winning multimedia content, instructional supports, and innovative classroom tools, Discovery Education helps educators deliver equitable learning experiences, engaging all students and supporting higher academic achievement on a global scale. Discovery Education serves approximately 4.5 million educators and 45 million students worldwide, and its resources are accessed in over 100 countries and territories. Inspired by the global media company Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.Phil Birchinall, Senior Director of Immersive ContentPhil has been an educator and award winning EdTech innovation leader for almost 30 years, developing and bringing high impact content into the classroom, most recently at the forefront of immersive technologies such as augmented and virtual reality.Phil studied industrial design, film and TV at the college of Ripon and York St John and lives in Manchester. His favourite subject at school was science and his favourite teacher was Mr. Cooper who in the 1970’s was light years ahead in his understanding of how children learn and bringing innovation to his science teaching.The Sandbox AR app can be downloaded for free via : https://immersive.discoveryeducation.com/pages/58125118-1921-4424-8134-dc8c5bcaed87A video which shows AR in action: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-vGD7Kse73kWebsitehttps://immersive.discoveryeducation.com/Social Media InformationX @DiscoveryEdUKDiscover more about Education on Fire🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/🔥 Explore the podcasthttps://www.educationonfire.com/listen🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tiphttps://educationonfire.com/support🔥 Ecamm Free Trial – See how I record and produce this show.https://educationonfire.com/ecammSome 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.Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)https://nape.org.uk/Membership is open to all who have a concern for the quality of primary education and the growth and development of children between birth and the age of 13. NAPE offer both individual and whole school membership.