The Unteachables Podcast
Claire English
Welcome to 'The Unteachables Podcast', your go-to resource for practical classroom management strategies and teacher support. I’m your host, Claire English, a passionate secondary teacher and leader turned teacher mentor and author of 'It's Never Just About the Behaviour: A Holistic Approach to Classroom Behaviour Management.' I'm on a mission to help educators like you transform your classrooms, build confidence, and feel empowered.Why am I here? Not too long ago, I was overwhelmed by low-level classroom disruptions and challenging behaviors. After thousands of hours honing my skills in real classrooms and navigating ups and downs, I’ve become a confident, capable teacher ready to reach every student—even those with the most challenging behaviors. My journey inspired me to support teachers like you in mastering effective classroom strategies that promote compassion, confidence, and calm.On The Unteachables Podcast, we’ll dive into simple, actionable strategies that you can use to handle classroom disruptions, boost student engagement, and create a positive learning environment. You'll hear from renowned experts such as:Bobby Morgan of the Liberation LabMarie Gentles, behavior expert behind BBC's 'Don't Exclude Me' and author of 'Gentles Guidance'Robyn Gobbel, author of 'Raising Kids with Big Baffling Behaviours'Dr. Lori Desautels, assistant professor and published authorAnd many more behaviour experts and mentors.Angela Watson from the Truth for Teachers Podcast.Whether you’re an early career teacher, a seasoned educator, or a teaching assistant navigating classroom challenges, this podcast is here to help you feel happier, empowered, and ready to make an impact with every student.Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode packed with classroom tips and inspiring conversations that make a real difference!
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 27, 2025 • 16min
#102: How to make this year more positive for ‘that’ student (and of course, for you)
Feeling challenged by a hard-to-reach student? You’re not alone! Learn how to reset your mindset and embrace a fresh start for the school year. Discover the importance of having open, collaborative conversations to build trust and connection. Small actions can lead to big changes in your relationship with that tough student. Plus, get practical strategies to create a positive ripple effect in the classroom. Remember, every little step counts toward fostering both growth and success!
Jan 20, 2025 • 24min
#101: My 3 non-negotiables for the first week back at school. How to set strong expectations students follow AND still smile before Easter!
Heading back to school? Discover top strategies for setting classroom expectations while maintaining a positive vibe. Learn why it's vital to create buy-in from day one, and why the advice to 'not smile until Easter' misses the mark. Uncover three essential non-negotiables for the first week, like learning names and using icebreakers. Plus, explore how to turn rules into a living dialogue, fostering a culture where students feel safe, seen, and heard.
Dec 17, 2024 • 15min
#100: Goodbye, 2024!! Reflections on rest, filling our cups, and how to return to school in 2025 feeling like "you" again.
As 2024 wraps up, there's a heartfelt discussion on the vital difference between resting and truly rejuvenating. The conversation highlights the five basic needs that fill our cups, such as love, fun, and freedom. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their feelings and find intentional ways to nurture themselves during the holidays. The importance of prioritizing well-being is underscored, reminding educators how essential self-care is for their teaching journey. It's a warm reminder to reconnect with what makes you feel whole.
Dec 12, 2024 • 6min
#99: The holidays aren't fun for everyone, which is why those behaviours might be on the rise!
The festive season can be a fun time for us as teachers, and our students—but not for everyone. While many of us are busy planning celebrations and gifts, some of our students face unique challenges. For them, the holiday season might bring stress, instability, or hardship. In this episode, I offer a compassionate reminder about the reality some of our students face and how we, as educators, can make a difference in their experience.IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:The reality of the holiday season for some students – why it’s not a joyful time for everyone.The impact of the holidays on student behaviour – understanding increased reactivity, withdrawal, and emotional dysregulation.Practical steps to support students during this season – strategies for consistency, connection, and fostering felt-safety in your classroom.The holidays can highlight the disparity in experiences among students, and for some, your classroom might be the only consistent, safe space they know. By recognising this and doubling down on your routines, expectations, and community-building, you can offer them much-needed stability. Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!RESOURCES AND MORE SUPPORT: Shop all resources Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Connect with me: Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website
Dec 10, 2024 • 13min
#98: 5 questions to ask your students today to foster an attitude of gratitude!
As the term winds down, classroom energy can wane. Discover five insightful questions designed to spark gratitude and positivity among students. Learn why gratitude matters for both teachers and students. Get tips on engaging even the most reluctant participants. Reflect on what you're grateful for daily, what makes you laugh, and what brings you joy each morning. Modeling your own responses can help students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts. It's all about fostering connections and enhancing the classroom vibe!
Dec 5, 2024 • 6min
#97: Do your classroom celebrations turn to CHAOS?! Here's what to do to get festive without the fear of mayhem.
Ever had a class party or more relaxed and unstructured activities spiral into mayhem??? That doesn't mean you shouldn't do it, it just means you need to do it right! In today's bite I take you through how adding structure to your festive plans can keep things fun, calm, and enjoyable for everyone (yourself included!).IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:Why end-of-year celebrations can feel overwhelming: Understanding what makes this time of year tricky.How to pair fun with predictability: Simple strategies to create structure while still enjoying the moment.Practical engagement tips: Ideas to keep students focused and reduce chaos during activities.Celebrate away, but remember: Pair the party with predictability 🎄Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!RESOURCES AND MORE SUPPORT: Shop all resources Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Connect with me: Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website
Dec 4, 2024 • 21min
#96: 3 classroom games that are fun, easy, and can be used at a pinch to channel that end-of-year energy!!
Struggling with end-of-year classroom chaos? You're not alone! Discover why this time can be so challenging for both students and teachers. Learn about three engaging games designed to channel student energy in a fun and productive way. Embrace the festive atmosphere while maintaining control and boosting class morale. Plus, get motivated with strategies to keep energy high and connections strong in the classroom. It’s the perfect time to thrive, not just survive!
Nov 28, 2024 • 5min
#95: BEHAVIOUR BITE: When you chat to students about their behaviour, are you lecturing, or guiding? The difference it makes is HUGE!
Imagine being 12 years old and feeling lost in a classroom. School has always been a struggle, and instead of admitting your confusion, you become the class clown, distracting yourself and your friends. When the teacher calls you out, you know the drill—nod along and wait for the inevitable lecture. That lecture? Like water off a duck’s back!IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:The cycle of disengagement: Lecturing students about their behaviour often leads them to tune out, allowing them to avoid taking real accountability. This just perpetuates the same patterns when they return to class.Shifting from lecturing to guiding: By using strategic questions, we can encourage students to reflect on their actions and understand the impact of their behaviour.Empowering student reflection: When students contribute to the conversation, they become active participants in their own learning and behaviour management, rather than passive recipients of criticism.This week, observe your language when discussing behaviour with students:Are you talking more than listening?Are you telling more than asking?Challenge yourself to become a guide instead of a lecturer. Notice how this shift influences your conversations and helps students take ownership of their actions..Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!RESOURCES AND MORE SUPPORT: Shop all resources Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Connect with me: Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website
Nov 26, 2024 • 19min
#94: What to do when students are barely showing up to class? Breaking the cycle of non-attendance with compassion, not consequences.
Are your students arriving late or missing class altogether?In this episode, we’ll explore why punitive measures often backfire and how they can alienate the very students who need connection the most.IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:The pitfalls of punishment: While it may seem like a way to enforce attendance, punishment can foster resentment and disconnect, driving students further away from the classroom.Understanding the reasons behind absenteeism: Many factors influencing attendance are beyond the students’ control, including personal circumstances and mental health challenges.The importance of compassionate expectations: It’s crucial to maintain high standards while approaching students with empathy and understanding.5 Practical strategies for improving attendance with understanding, compassion and reflection.The key takeaway from this episode is clear: we cannot lecture or punish our way to better attendance. Instead, we must focus on connection, celebrating progress, and having difficult yet supportive conversations.Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!RESOURCES AND MORE SUPPORT: Shop all resources Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Connect with me: Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website
Nov 21, 2024 • 6min
#93: BEHAVIOUR BITE: What messages might your classroom be sending to your students, and how can you make sure it is working FOR you, not AGAINST you!?
When we think of classroom management, our minds often jump to techniques and strategies we implement with our students. However, the most effective management often occurs even before they enter the room. In today’s behaviour bite, I’ll discuss the crucial role of the physical classroom environment itself. It can serve as an invaluable teaching assistant or become a significant roadblock.IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:The impact of a clean and clutter-free classroom: A tidy environment sends powerful non-verbal messages to students about expectations, respect, and focus.The consequences of a messy space: When students enter a chaotic room, they may internalise the belief that cleanliness and respect for the learning environment don’t matter.The benefits of a well-organised classroom: A neat setup with resources ready and a clear agenda helps establish a positive tone and reinforces the importance of taking care of the space.Action steps to improve your classroom environment: I challenge you to reflect on the messages your space conveys and implement one small change this week to create a more supportive learning atmosphere.By making these intentional adjustments, you can help your students feel anchored and ready to learn. These small changes will bolster your classroom management and foster a culture where all students work together to maintain a positive learning environment.Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!RESOURCES AND MORE SUPPORT: Shop all resources Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Connect with me: Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website
