Two primary aged children doing homework with the older girl helping the younger boy.

Get bite-sized insights and analysis on the latest topics in primary education

Becoming an effective teacher takes years of experience. Lucky for you, our podcast hosts have seen enough ‘aha!’ moments throughout their education careers to know which ideas are useful (and which should be avoided). Join our hosts as they unpack current pedagogical thinking, chat about their education obsessions and share invaluable teaching tips for the classroom and at home. From big questions like, where does the inspiration to learn come from? To smaller ones like, which writing tool is better: pencils or pens? Tune in to learn more than you ever thought you needed to know about learning.

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Episode 230: Exploring the 5 Core Competencies - Visualisation

Over the next five weeks we’re diving into the 5 Core Competencies. This week, we look at visualisation, a crucial skill needed for problem solving. Our trio discuss the importance of Jerome Bruner's CPA approach, the dangers of rote, and more!

Episode 229: Teachers only get THIS many hours of maths training

Oboe experts, Being anti-maths, and more. We’re reposting this fantastic episode about teacher training — with our hosts looking into how many hours teachers actually get to explore maths during their training. How serious can the knock-on effects be if something is misunderstood by a child early on? Why are there different attitudes to other subjects? Plus, we talk about the unique circumstance of how usually the people holding teachers accountable aren’t adults…

Episode 228: Curriculum decisions — Who makes them and how impactful are they?

This week our trio discuss the complexities of curriculum organisation in mathematics education. How are curriculum decisions are made? Does the secret to success lie more in the curriculum or in the classroom? Plus, hear how scales and analogue issues might be a problem without the right guidance!

Episode 227: Can AI Replace Teachers?

In this episode, our hosts discuss the implications of AI in education, exploring whether it could replace teachers. Is human connection even that important? Will the future of education involve a blend of AI and human teaching? Plus, the crew note that the role of a teacher goes beyond just transferring knowledge…

Episode 226: Building trust and creating a culture of improvement — The impact of Professional Learning Communities

We’re Andy-less this week, but luckily joined by the fantastic Neil and Rosie from St Bridget’s once again. This week we’re discussing the importance of professional learning communities in education, focusing on how they foster collaboration, trust, and continuous improvement among teachers. Just how key is that supportive environment for teachers? Plus, we hear an a-ha moment to remember!

Episode 225: Culture responsive teaching

Our hosts this week are discussing why culturally responsive teaching is essential for inclusive education. What age is right to start learning about world views? How important is representation in education? Plus, the gang agree that building and emphasising curiosity about different cultures enriches the educational experience.

Meet your instructors

The school of school podcast is presented by:

Adam Gifford

In a past life, Adam was a headteacher, and the first Primary Maths Specialist Leader in Education in the UK. He led the NW1 Maths Hub’s delivery of NCETM’s Professional Development Lead Support Programme before taking on his current role of Maths Subject Specialist at Maths — No Problem! Outside of Maths — No Problem! he continues to work with universities and local authorities. In short, he’s a busy guy.

Andy Psarianos

Andy was one of the first to bring maths mastery to the UK as the founder and CEO of the independent publisher: Maths — No Problem! Since then, he’s continued to create innovative education products as Chairman of Fig Leaf Group. He’s won more than a few awards, helped schools all over the world raise attainment levels, and continues to build an inclusive, supportive education community. When he says he’s on a mission to give all teachers the support they need to make an impact, he really means it.

Robin Potter

Robin comes to the podcast with a global perspective on parenting and children’s education. She’s lived in ten different countries and her children attended school in six of them. She has been a guest speaker at international conferences, sharing her graduate research on the community benefits of using forests for wellness. Currently, you’ll find Robin collaborating with colleagues and customers in her role as Head of Community Engagement at Fig Leaf Group, parent company of Maths — No Problem!

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