After the Bell with @educatinglaura

If you do not follow Ellen on Instagram - you must! We discuss this crazy job that we all love. The fluctuation of pressure and stress on educators throughout the term. How to prioritise ourselves and be consistent with our self care. Ellen speaks about her own health challenges and how she has come to be such an active advocate for teacher wellbeing. If you would like to hear more from Ellen, she has her own podcast. Alternatively have a look at her website to work with her as a wellbeing coach.   Feel free to support me an dmy work by buying me a virtual coffee.

Just like an English class, my colleagues Jen and John (JR) use the important Indigenous play 'The 7 Stages of Grieving' by Wesley Enoch and Deborah Mailman as a spring board for discussion. Not only do we discuss the play that we are currently teaching alongside ‘The Longest Memory' by Fred D'Aguiar, but we also discuss our own Australian identities. Jen in particular discusses the trauma around not fully having her own identity (potentially Indigenous) really clarified for her and her family.  John discusses the importance of history in our curriculum and how he became such a strong ally and advocate for oppressed voices, including Aboriginal and Torrest Strait Islanders. We also talk about the teaching of empathy through the English curriculum our favourite texts to teach and why the importance of storytelling the controversy surrounding Bruce Pascoe's 'Dark Emu'  The conversation is not just for educators and students in VCE English, but also a wider audience because the themes are truly universal. Feel free to support me an dmy work by buying me a virtual coffee.  

My conversation with musician turned educator Lisa for @redpoppys_class on instagram. As someone who had quite the journey to arrive at teaching, Lisa has so much wisdom to share. We discuss: the importance of teaching the whole child advocating for wellbeing improving student agency teaching our students about the online world zones of regulation and the importance of building true emotional support into the curriculum how parenting her two children has informed her role as an educator how incidental opportunities turned into a career and so much more Nathan van der Monde is the one that connected Lisa and I and I would like to shout out to his two episodes on the podcast: From secondary to primary with Nathan van der Monde Around the table   Feel free to support me an dmy work by buying me a virtual coffee.

Queering the curriculum with Naomi – a secondary high school teacher currently completing her SECOND Masters degree is gifted education.    Naomi has worked in government, private and catholic sectors.  She has been instrumental in raising awareness for LGBTQIA+ students in her schools and creating safe spaces within education.  She is passionate about representation, queer and otherwise.  We discuss identity in many forms. The classics over more modern literature in teaching..  Our big hopes for education as well as big life lessons.  If you are not following Naomi @queeringthecurriculum – go and do that now…. like, right now!    Resources mentioned: VATE The Monkeys Mask Head On - film Parrotfish Marilyn Hacker In Cold Blood by Truman Capote Some exceptional books to read for queer texts include the following. Should be in every library: Growing Up Queer in Australia The Kindred Series Anthology (editor by the amazing Michael Earp) – currently working on a resource for this one, once this madness settles down The Miseducation of Cameron Post – it is considered to be the queer version of To Kill a Mockingbird Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe The Geography Club Simon and the Homosapien Agenda Annie on my Mind The love and lies of rukhsana ali Underdog: #LoveOzYA Short Stories #AusQueerYA Tumblr – has heaps on there! Film/TV: Freehold Gayby Baby Miseducation of Cameron Post Simon vs The World My So Called Life Faking It South of Nowhere Teaching resources: Queer Inclusion in Teacher Education Queer Literacies Queer Voices from the Classroom Queering Classrooms (book) Schools Out Big Gay Adventures in Education Teaching What You're Not We Make it Better: The LGBT Community and their Positive Contributions to Society The Book of Pride

This is my conversation wtih Dan Jackson from Teachers PD. From classroom teacher to Deputy Principal, Dan now has a thriving business supporting teachers improve their teaching and learning strategies. He runs online courses, custom PDs as well as a free podcast called the Effective teaching podcast. His podcast is a fantastic opportunity to learn from educational experts that share best practice. The episode are short and sharp and perfect for people who want to know more without having the time to read all of the educational research out there.  I was even privileged enough to contribute (less as an expert and more as someone on the ground level), listen here: How to leverage learning styles with Laura.  We talk about: the importance of networking with teachers how to improve best practice the systematic issues within education the decision to homeschool how to measure a good school (and my article in the Wine with Teacher magazine) intellectual property laws for Australian educators and so much more. Dan's top educational reads: Understanding by Design by Grant wiggins and Jay McTighe  Teach like a Pirate by Dave Burgess Embeded Formative Assessment by Dylan Wiliam The Learning Power Approach by Guy Claxton, Transforming Schools by Miranda Jefferson and Michael Anderson Additonal: Deep Work by Cal Newport Trevor Mackenzie - all books Sir Ken Robinson  I also reference this post from Beck (@continuousclassroom) in my intro. Please look after yourself, put in healthy boundaries and ask for help if you need it. This time of year can be a very stressful and overwhelming time for many of us. Feel free to support me an dmy work by buying me a virtual coffee.

My chat with my wonderful friend and forever learner, Leslie Allin. We met as young university students on exchange in England. Leslie from Canada and me from Australia. Leslie has gone on to complete her PhD in Victorian Literature, published an analytical text, taught at the university level and now teaches womens self defence. This is a very open and honest conversations amongst two life long friends who are forever each other's touchstones as we enter new phases of our lives.   Not only did Leslie publish her first book: 'Penetrating Critiques: Emasculated Empire and Victorian Identity in Africa', but she also became a mum this year.  So proud of my friend.   Shout at to EJ from @kafoopleclassroom on Insta for inspiring me to advocate for my health.   Feel free to support me an dmy work by buying me a virtual coffee

My conversation with Karen Caswell. Karen is a life long learner, experienced educator and advocate for deep connections. She speaks vulnerably about nearing burn out and disillusionment in the teaching profession and how she navigated her way to find the love of the job again. She answers big questions like: What role education has played in her life What we can do to improve the teacher training process at university Her evolution as a teacher Where she finds the  most joy in teaching Focusing on character building within the curriculum Hopes for education Greatest lessons learnt (this one speaks to me) She also holds a weekly chat on Twitter to connect link minded educators.   Links: Blog https: //www.karencaswell.com/  Twitter @kasw1 New Pedagogies for Deep Learning https://deep-learning.global/ based on the work of Michael Fullan, Joanne Quinn and Joanne McEachen Dave Burgess https://daveburgess.com/about/ ; @dbc_inc on Instagram ; @burgess_dave on Twitter Tamara Letter https://www.tamaraletter.com/ ; @tamaraletter on Instagram and Twitter Alicia Ray @iluveducating on Instagram and Twitter Tara Martin http://www.tarammartin.com/ ; @tarammartin.real on Instagram ; @TaraMartinEDU on Twitter   Wine with teacher podcast - with Gabbie Stroud Around the table podcast episode   Feel free to show your gratitude for the chat by buying me a virtual coffee -  

I talk to Cam and Emma, my colleagues as well as passionate health educators in this episode. The curriculum they have developed in the human sexuality space is nothing short of inspirational. We discuss big topics like: Fertility as a journey Endometriosis and chronic pain Consent Pornography Shameful education around sex Empowering our students around sex Identity building Gender as a construct Body image Teacher and student wellbeing The effectiveness of guest speakers when discussing drugs, alcohol and other health related issues Educational leadership The pressure on our teens We also touch on some current issues current in the media, links below: THAT consent campaign Teenagers reaction to the Gov consent campaign Can pain create empathy FULL STORY podcast College Admissions Scandal on Netflix Khloe Kardashian unedited photo scandal   Feel free to show your gratitude for the chat by buying me a virtual coffee -

I am truly thrilled to bring this episode to you. My discussion with Kayla from: @ourdillybag and @oursonglines We talk about: The importance of acknowledging the land we inhabit Survival Day Understanding how to appreciate the culture that is most relevant to you as an individual Identity Shifts in education around indigenous perspectives Dismantling some damaging rhetoric around Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people/culture and much more Kayla is informative and generous in her ability to dispell misunderstandings and support many who wish to be better allies to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations We reference: 'Growing up Aboriginal in Australia' by Anita Heiss 'Dark Emu' by Bruce Pascoe Alone on the Soaks by Alec Kruger Bunjil the wedge tail eagle relevant to Victoria, Australia Rainbow Serpent Wayapa Wuurk Indigenous earth connection/meditative practice Chris Hemsworth and cultural appropriation  Hey Hey It's Saturday black face scandal   Indigenous accounts to follow: Jordyn from @learning_to_ngangaanha Tramain from @themurriteacher @missgibbsau @thekooriteacher @teachingwithtanna @thomasamayor @wingaru_education @kooricurriculum @balukarts   Support First Nations businesses: https://firstnationsgifts.com/ https://supplynation.org.au/   Feel free to show your gratitude for the chat by buying me a virtual coffee -

This one has been in the works for a while.   With impressive professional careers and an impending birth I knew I had to lock these three down for a chat.   Serena and Aaron are both APs in NSW and Nathan is a leading teaching and has worked for the department in VIC.   It turns out we are all quite deep thinkers and we tackle big topics such as: The 'why' behind our choice to become educators How to market schools beyond academic results/data Self care practices and favourite books Favourite teaching tools and why How to move forward in education after Covid Big hopes for education How do we foster life long learning Also I have an announcement regarding the structure of the podcast moving forward.   If you enjoyed this chat and you haven't heard their solo episodes I recommend:   Nathan van der Monde: from secondary to primary Mr J's Learning Space   Instagram handles: @thewrightclassroom @mr.j.learning.space @mrvandermonde

This is my conversation with Cath Williams. She is an experienced teacher, kindness advocate and fellow podcaster. Check out her show Get ConnectED   We talk all about the beauty of connection through social media, taking risks in the classroom and seeking out support when needed.   Cath mentions a number of great accounts to follow including: @drjodycarrington @mrsmacskinders @roman.nowak @corifraser ( principal) @ourcreativeclassroom (wellbeing group)   We also reference a number of my previous conversations including: Mr J's Learning Space Nathan Van der Monde: From secondary to primary We talk about the following tech platforms for learning: Seesaw and Flipgrid   Also from the intro -  A shout out to all of those supportive teacher colleagues out there. We are so grateful for you. Podcast with Ben Taylor: Argument Analysis: let's get clear - getting some great feedback on this one. I am a guest on the Teachers Talk Texts podcast with Clare Mackie talking all things Women of Troy by Euripides. Go check it out for this and many other insightful conversations.

This is my conversation wtih the fabulous Deb McNaughton. Her journey from primary educator to mother to full time artist is quite the story. She is fearless, savvy and determined. Her skills as a teacher and learner continue to catapult her to new heights as an independent artist and entrepeneur. Deb is also incredibly kind and generous. Always sharing her platform to support other small businesses and budding artists. Listen to hear how she was 'discovered' by Jamie Durie ;)   Links: Deb McNaughton ARTIST website Lenny's instagram page: Cre8tive Lenny

This is a very honest discussion with Renae Mountford: covergirl (Wine with Teacher magazine) and passionate educator. We discuss: Her journey through education as student and teacher Being the victim of childhood bullying The role of a teacher and how that idea has shifted with experience Advice for pre service teachers? The advantages and challenges in teaching primary aged students The importance of Indigenous culture in our curriculum The best and worst parts of the teachergram and much more I have a myriad of amazing teachergram accounts to credit as Renae mentions these wonderful educators that have made a true impact on her as a teacher. Are you ready? Here we go: Elle from @teachingandteaspills Ceri from @ourcreativeclassroom Sarah from @thatfunnyteacher Rhiannon from @theoutbackteacher Serena from @thewrightclassroom Nathan from @nathanvandermonde Tara from @theworldofseshat Shan from @teachandchangelives Hayley - with her Calm down kits @calmspaceclassrooms Emotional regulations resources from @wholeheartedschoolcounseling @mrsedgarsclass Indigenous Account recommendations: Jordyn from @learning_to_ngangaanha Tramain from @themurriteacher @missgibbsau @thekooriteacher @teachingwithtanna @thomasamayor @wingaru_education @kooricurriculum Indigenous stamps from @theteachingtools collaborated with the Indigenous designer @hollysanders @teacherlatte collaborated with @lakkariart with her Indigenous stamps! @sentorbriggs @8983aj Podcasts Bring Back the Warrior The Deadly Podcasts Unapologetically Blak Nncacultureawareness Always Was, Always Was Our Stories Tiddas 4 Tiddas One of Renae's Aboriginal mentors at Uni - @stevie_mish Indigenous awareness and excursion program she attended when studying Indigenous elective subjects at Uni - organised by Dwayne @nnacultureawareness Book recommendations: Untamed by Glennon Doyle Confidence is Uncomfortable by Sonia Diab.

Ben from The English Lab and I do a deep dive on the Unit 3 Argument Analysis SAC for VCE English. We talk about: The objective of this task. Structure – from an assessor's perspective What is included in a high scoring response compared to the mid and low range responses How can students improve their analyses How to incorporate metalanguage without signposting techniques How to make the analysis specific  What constitutes an 'argument' and much more We also address a number of teacher questions sent in in preparation for this episode.   I do reference the Teachers Talk Texts podcast and highly recommend students listen to this in conjunction with this episode.   Ben has also appeared on previous episodes: VCE STUDENTS your English teachers said, pay attention! English Teachers sure can talk I do reference the Teachers Talk Texts podcast and highly recommend students listen to this in conjunction with this episode.   The English Lab Argument Analysis playlist (youtube) The English Lab website VCE English support group on instagram

This is my conversation with Shan from @teachandchangelives on Instagram. We discuss  her current role as an educator for autistic students her past roles in mainstream primary classes  her time working with children of trauma our fear and reservations around being 'out there' on social media as well as  the reality of career burnout hopes for education and much more The Life Autistic - instagram account referenced As the sister of Tadgh, the innovative teacher behing Assessly - see episode: Assessly, Impressed Me - we also do a shout out to this software.

This is my chat with Maddie - @vcalteacher We discuss her time as a 'disruptive' student and what was really going on for her. Her focus on harm minimisation and how important it is for students to have a 'safe adult' in their lives. She also passionately promotes the importance of filling in the gaps of our history as Australians and giving a platform to Indigenous people, businesses and stories as part of our curriculum, especially in Victoria.   Maddie runs a 'what they don't teach us at university' series on her instagram that I highly recommend you look into. I have even featured to discuss how teaching has changed. Indigenous educational group mentioned: Red Dust Oz

This conversation is with Chris Sherwin.   He appears to have nine lives, living many different experiences and having a variety of roles.   Working in these different fields has afforded him a genuine insight into university where he mentored PHD students and wrote reports that informed environmental legislation. He also taught adults for a number of years and is now instrumental in the movement of automated processes in industry.   At the crux of his choices has been his love of learning and his excitement around new perspectives and processes.   We in VIC have just been notified of a 5 day lockdown, which I acknowledge. I also have a little guest in my intro that you may enjoy hearing from.

This is my conversation with Rachel Key.   She began her teaching career in 2020, amidst the pandemic.   We discuss her time as a student, her experience as a trainee teacher as well as her first year as a graduate.   Rachel is stepping up to make a difference around body image for her students and I certainly hope will consider developing a program for others to teach one day. Her insight into this issue and her handle on the way society feeds different body types to consumers is important content.

This is my conversation with Spencer Sharp, a STEM educator from the USA.   We talk about developing curriculum to increase problems solving and design. the importance of reflecting on our practice and our perspective on what good learning looks like. shifting the focus on one type of assessment and ensuring students have choice and accountability of their own learning. He also has his own podcast with another STEM educator called: Innovative Teacher Podcast. Here are some links we mention in the show - Rube Goldberg machine Flipgrid Sharp the builder website Sharp the builder TPT store

My conversation with Mathilde Lambert. She graduated Year 12 in 2020, but went non scored.   She has a passion for acting, singing and songwriting, with her first single out now on spotify.   We talk about the importance of acknowledging indigenous culture in our curriculum and her coming to terms with her authentic self.   At the time of this interview she had only recently been diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum and we talk about her perspective and why she held off on having the 'label'.   She is a passionate advocate for increasing Indigenous awareness amongst Australians and embedding it further into the curriculum.   This conversation also influenced a LIVE a did with Maddie @vcalteacher. She has an IGTV series about 'what they don't teach us' at University as trainee teachers. I encourage you to check it out.

This is my conversation with Aaron Johnston a primary school Assistant Principal in NSW.   We talk about job applications and interview tips. His love of flexible learning spaces, shifting the pedagogy to get the best out of team teaching environments. The impact visible learning has had on his teaching practice and the importance of creating safe, honest spaces for our students.   We also talk about big life lessons, his experience as a male teaching and leader in the profession.   I also acknowledge a conversation I had with Miss Tangerine, a fantastic secondary teacher in Melbourne, around the anxiety on instagram in the teacher community during the holidays.   IGTV of this conversation

I have been talking about this conversation with anyone that will listen and I am so excited this is my first conversation episode of 2021.   Dr. Mary Hemphill is the CEO of The Limitless Lady, LLC and Founder of The Limitless Leader, a company that helps individuals ignite the leader in themselves so they can better serve their community, company, & personal career.   Most recently, Mary has the opportunity to hone her expertise through her role as North Carolina's first state director of Computer Science & Technology Education where she works to leverage support & leadership around Computer Science initiatives across the state. In addition, she has presented & spoken for multiple platforms & conferences such as the Model Schools Conference, All Things Open, The Future of Tech is Female, and NCASA Conference on Educational Leadership.   Resume aside, she is the most compassionate, brave and generous leader. She is a cheerleader for students and has released her book, 'The One Minute Meeting,' which is all about generating student investment in their own educational journeys.   Links: Instagram Website Book: The One-Minute Meeting: Creating Student Stakeholders in Schools

I was inspired to record this episode after listening to George Couros' first 2021 episode on his Innovator's Mindset Podcast.   He asks 3 questions - 1. Who is a teacher that has inspired you? 2. Talk about one administrator who impacted you. 3. What advice would you give your first-year teacher self?   I reflect on why George is someone I look up to as an innovative educator in the profession and I enjoyed the opportunity to compliment those in my life that have shaped me as a teacher.   These stories are not ones I tell often and certainly take me to a very vulnerable place, but I do it in the hope it normalises experiences for you listening.

Nathan van der Monde is inspiring, generous and incredibly intelligent. He loves an experience and will throw his hat in the ring if it means he has the opportunity to expand his mind and understanding around best practice and what is best for our students in the classroom.   We talk about his time as a secondary teacher in Victoria, the decision to move into primary education and how his heart changed once he had his daughter.   He speaks eloquently and thoughtfully on his time working as an 'EIL' for the department and how he would do it differently if he was to create his own school. Look him up on Instagram, I am so excited to be able to bring this conversation to you. Great teacher and lovely person.   Resources discussed: Spelling it Out Writing Workshop Teaching Phonics in Context   Also - this is the last conversation episode for 2020. I will be returning on the 12th of Jan. Thank you for all of your support - I am truly grateful for you all.

This conversation is with Jess and Glenn, both teachers who have experienced the highs and lows of this profession. We talk about burnout, losing the love for the classroom and having to make a conscious effort to choose again. The importance of those messy and loud tasks when it comes to building independence and critical and creative thinking in our students. How the set backs in life have allowed for greater clarity and the way parenthood has changed them both as teachers. To get to know more about them their follow them on instagram Or check out their TPT store for more ungooglable questions and other great resources.

I look back at the first 12 episodes with my guests to reflect on what I loved about these conversations and all that I have learnt from this podcast since beginning only a few short months ago on 8/8/20.   2020 has been a wild ride and I am so grateful for you choosing to download these episodes and to be here with me. Your support means so much.

My conversation with Roxy - a secondary educator from London that I connected with via instagram. She discusses her decision to become a teacher after originally aspiring to work in charities. The importance of understanding the culture of your students and setting clear boundaries, but also remembering to keep the humanity in teaching. We discuss all of the things. Great conversation.  

This episode is one I have with three women I met at mothers group. We talk about big topics like: education professional goals being a woman in society beliefs about motherhood I am so grateful for the honesty and difference in perspective offered by each of my guests. I am hoping, like in all of my episodes, to normalise the fact that there truly is no one way to show up as a student, a woman or a parent in this world. Last small business shout out - not sponsored. The Elm Care Box Instagram Go Fund Me

This conversation is with a family of educators. Rowan, a teacher and father, who has not only taught his own children - but has worked along side them. Recently retired from the profession, Rowan has left his educational legacy in the hands of his children. We discuss teaching from the perspective of a variety of experience levels. Teaching values and the importance of those physical subjects in creating global citizens.   Small business shout out: Educational Journeys: Website Instagram

I put out this 'call to action' a little while ago, here was my pitch: I would like to showcase student voice. The idea is to either respond to (if a student) or give your students (if a teacher) the statement, ‘I wish my teacher... ‘ and then complete the statement. So it could be: ‘I wish my teacher... knew/said/taught/understood/valued/provided/contributed/asked...' etc Ideas that would make the learning experience better, that impacts ability to learn, that demonstrates the individuality within a class. My mission is to showcase education through the eyes of the individual and the more students can be active participants in their own learning the more impactful our time together as educators and learners can be. This is that episode. I am so grateful that I can offer a place for students to be heard. Thank you to everyone for contributing.   I reference the following podcast episodes: Calculus, Careers and Roadmap Ed You taught me... student reflections

This is a conversation I have with a childhood friend of mine, Gillian. She is an exceptional dancer, worked professionally, owned her own studio and continue to teach and choreograph. As a creative she did not take the 'conventional' path, however has had much life experience. We talk about the impacts of being a perfectionist, how we have both suffered from the judgement of others as well as the continual negative messaging to women about their bodies. Trigger warning: We discuss eating disorders in depth.   My business shout out is for Gillian as she is a make up artist. Go to her Instagram to find out all about her and engage her for your own make up needs.

This episode was inspired by a message I received recently from an ex student who is now a teacher and wanted to let me know about the impact I had made.   So, I put out the call to a number of my ex students and just said: 'Could you please send me a brief recording of something you remember me teaching you.'   The responses I got allowed me to really consider my teaching philosophy, my goals in the classroom, my values and just the things I think are important when teaching young adults. There is a lot in here for everyone. Definitely one of my fave episodes to put together. I mention the podcast episodes: MEGG THOMPSON: The Behaviour Master Calculus, Careers and Roadmap Ed AS REQUESTED: Learning styles and motivation tips Rise to the Challenge As well as the blog: The Teacher I Needed   Small business shout out (not sponsored) to Flourish Self Care - some beautiful care packages available that would make lovely Christmas gifts.

This is a conversation that I have with my very first mentor teacher from my teaching rounds all the way back in 2007. Karen's education has spanned from her high school days in the 1960s to 1987-2012 teaching senior English and Australian Studies to now, where she is currently studying a Masters of Theology. Education has been an important part of her life as a vocation, a way to lift her out of challenging times as well as affording her a sense of direction in retirement. We talk about our time together as colleagues as well as our love of the classroom and the students we have taught.   Trigger warning: teen suicide is mentioned in this episode   If you haven't listened to her blog episode: Education Appreciation, make sure sure you check it out. A really personal conversation close to my heart that I know you will love. Also, my small business shout out to The Sweet Smash Co. Katie from the episode Inspired and Nervous, Pre Service side hustle. Check out the business on Instagram . Highly recommend!

Here is the blog written and read aloud by one of my educational mentors, Karen. She will be on the podcast Monday for a full conversation - check out her episode: Forever My Mentor.   This is the blog read today: Education Appreciation   Also - as part of my Victorian small business support I would like to do a shout out to Bunny Street sleepwear. Click here for their website or instagram.

FREE PD CERTIFICATE - click on the link to get a professional development certificate for listening to Part 1 and Part 2 of Megg's conversation on this podcast. How AMAZING!   This is the continuation of my conversation with Megg Thompson from Megg Thompson Behaviour.   We continue our discussion about kindness based strategies to meet needs rather than shame a sympton. We discuss neurodiversity, shifts in curriculum and the way educators are no longer teaching in the ways that education has been modelled to them.   Also - a reminder about my giveaway with Each Day diaries. If you are interested in purchasing Artisinal Wines from a business that would really appreciate your support please head to: https://www.cloud9farm.com.au/

My conversation with Megg Thompson was eye opening.   Her hashtag: Be loud for love encompasses everything she stands for. She is an advocate for removing fear and denigration to control and discipline our youth in schools, preferring kindness and compassion always in our strategies. She pulls no punches, speaks from the heart and is armed with a lot of research and life experience. This is the first part of a two part episode.   To find out more about her head to: https://meggthompson.com/   ALSO -   I discuss a giveaway that I am running with Each Day teacher diaries. Head to the post to ENTER to win a free teacher diary valued at $50.

My shout out to a small Melbourne family business: Sweet Dispostion - for all of your lolly box and grazing plate needs now and for the festive season.   My conversation today is with Reuben Cullen.   He is a tradie by day who writes poetry as a form of expression in his spare time.   He has just published his first childrens book and is writing a script for a short film on the more challenging experiences in his life. Reuben talks about being lost in the education system, confusing happiness with drugs and alcohol consumption. The importance of true connections and having to hit rock bottom in order to come back home to himself.   One of the more authentic conversations I have had and I know Reuben's story is not necessarily a unique one, but one that needs to be heard so that we can shift the outcome of these normalised, yet detrimental behaviours in our society.   Trigger warning: drug abuse and suicide ideations are mentioned in this episode   To find out more about Reuben and his content go to: - Website: https://reubencullenkids.com/ - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reubencullenkids - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reubencullenkids/ - YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq-EbtydQ6JBtkWlTXIeF5Q

Welcome to the blog episode. I read out my blog: Losing Touch I also introduce my desire to inject back into small businesses now that Melbourne is opening up again. I will be doing some shout outs to recommended businesses that you can support. I also wanted to get behind a fantastic initiative by @mrvandermonde in Melbourne. See his post here to get involved in his Melbourne small business give away. Fantastic initiative.

What happens if you qualify as a teacher, get into your own classroom, and it doesn't feel right? In the first five years of teaching there is a mass exodus of educators. Teacher burn out is real as well as the stark realisaion by those that used teaching as a back up job, that it is anything but. Today I talk to one of those people that left the profession and what roles she was awarded based on her background in education. We discuss the importance of listening to that nagging voice within that tells you you're not being true to yourself and having the courage to follow even though you don't know where it will lead you.  Sarah is honest, wise and taught me so much about the lessons of life. She is truly extraordinary. 

I follow up on the classroom issues I was having with my classes post remote learning. I share some of the support I received from Megg Thompson, a behaviour consultant from the US, who will also be coming on the podcast soon!   I then read out my blog: The teacher I needed.   If you like the podcast please share it on social media or with someone you think would enjoy it. Please rate and review as well as that allows it to be seen on the podcast platforms. Thank you again for being here.

This is a conversation with Jo, who has held many roles in education including student management, head of curriculum as well as Assistant Principal positions. Jo is intelligent, passionate and well researched, offering advice and insights for pre service, classroom teachers as well as educational leaders. Great conversation.  

In this episode I talk about the interesting reaction my students have had being back in the classroom after months of remote learning.   I read the blog 'The School Experience Idealised' born out of a frank and thoughtful conversation that I had with my husband, Tom.   The video of the physics professor that I reference in the episode. Also, apologies for pronouncing 'vehemently' awkwardly.   Also - my call to action for student voice: to showcase student voices I would love for you to get involved. Please send a short audio clip (no longer than a minute) to tutoringbylaura@outlook.com.   If you would like more clarification feel free to email me or send me a dm @educatinglaura   Disclaimer: If you are fearing for your safety or are suffering from overwhelming feelings/emotions please seek out professional support.

  Here is my follow up chat with Ben from The English Lab. We talk about the evolution of our teaching. What we have learnt about leadership from both the perspective of being lead as well as holding leadership positions. Ben also explains the reason behind his choice to step away from the classroom this year. I encourage every teacher to listen as you will either relate or you will learn a valuable lesson without having to potentially experience the burn out many of us do.   If you want to contact Ben for teaching training, assessing or free resources his website is: https://www.englishlab.com.au/

This episode is dedicated to supporting VCE English students and their teachers (note, there is a full teacher dedicated episode to come). Ben from The English Lab and I discuss how to address common feedback as a student. How to prepare and study for the exam as well as other importance advice targeting any student undertaking the VCE English exam. Ben is an experienced English teacher and VCAA English assessor and has important insight and perspective for students, teachers and parents of a Year 12 student. You can find him at: The English Lab, which provides training for teachers, resources for students and leadership/curriculum consulting services. A typical week sees him working with groups of students in preparing for exams/assessments, preparing professional development sessions, creating resources and mentoring leaders in their pursuit to improve their secondary English curriculum. YouTube Channel Instagram References from the episode: Skeleton Planning: https://youtu.be/azq4lFaCpEs How to respond to essay questions: https://youtu.be/bLAfLhcqREE English Exam Preparation: https://youtu.be/F-ILd_imPqo

This is my chat with Katie from @eduKTion - a fresh graduate teacher working as a casual relief teacher (CRT) in 2020. We talk all things uni, mentors, teaching rounds, the teachergram and personal education experiences. She discusses the why behind her passion for mental wellness and the incredible resources made available on her TpT page. To follow her and get access to her work click here. Call to action -  to showcase student voices I would love for you to get involved.  Please send a short audio clip (no longer than a minute) to tutoringbylaura@outlook.com. If you would like more clarification feel free to email me or send me a dm @educatinglaura Disclaimer: If you are fearing for your safety or are suffering from overwhelming feelings/emotions please seek out professional support.

A call to action -  the initial part of this episode is my pitch for a potential episode in which I would like to showcase student voice. The idea is to either respond to (if a student) or give your students (if a teacher) the statement, ‘I wish my teacher... ‘ and then complete the statement. So it could be: ‘I wish my teacher... knew/said/taught/understood/valued/provided/contributed/asked...' etc   Ideas that would make the learning experience better, that impacts ability to learn, that demonstrates the individuality within a class.   My mission is to showcase education through the eyes of the individual and the more students can be active participants in their own learning the more impactful our time together as educators and learners can be.   If you would like to get involved please email me a short 60 second sound clip to: tutoringbylaura@outlook.com   Disclaimer: If you are in a dangerous situation and fear for your safety or are engaging in harmful behaviours please seek out professional support.    Beyond Blue have a great collation of websites and support for you to access here.   Here is the blog that I read out that I wrote in June 2020 if you would like to read along. I analyse the importance of moving with the times and educating our students in relevant mediums. Emily Oberg - referenced in the episode for her social media faux pas and its impact on her business.

This has been one of my favourite conversations so far. Kim is an experienced Maths teacher and Careers Counsellor. We talk ATAR scores and whether it is allowing the best students into University courses. The importance of female representation in Maths subjects. What we would like to see happen in education for ourselves and our children as well as what good learning looks like. To get in touch with Kim at Roadmap Ed: Website Instagram Facebook Twitter  

This is an important message. I believe that we are too willing to give our power away, to let others define us and what to value. So I am here to empower you to take your power back. Read along here.

I am so proud to bring you this episode today. I speak to Tadgh, an experienced teacher, and his wife Lisa - creators of Assessly. This ambitious couple are dedicated to bringing educators a software system that streamlines assessment. Not only does it align with the national curriculum standards, but it allows teachers to collect data on the spot in many different formats as well as providing easy to interpret data to inform teacher practice. We talk educational ideologies from both the teacher and parent perspectives. The journey of having a dream and executing it.  As well as their dedication to their product and ensuring that it is exactly what teachers need to make their lives easier.   To get in touch with them or learn more their details are: Assessly on Instagram Assessly website

Here is my fifth blog - For my People I discuss the impact of isolation during covid, the many ventures I undertook in order to fill the desire I ultimately have for connection and community. I also have a video of me recording this on my Instagram as an IGTV if you would prefer the visual. Thank you again for your support and for continuing to download the episodes each week. Means the world.

I love my chat with a now very successful adult, but once my ex student - Dean. He was considered highly academic at school, a high achiever and put great pressure on himself to succeed within the constructs of the education system at every level. He now is at the end of his degree looking at beginning his new profession and we take time to reflect on how his priorities have shifted, time at school as teacher and student and how he is now looking forward to the future.