Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner, UK-based and internationally-recognized education authors and consultants, have a lot on their minds. From best practices in classroom teaching to sustaining PD that makes an impact, they’re aware of the techniques that work, those that don’t, and the gaps that exist in education systems, within and across nations. In this podcast, they present proven strategies and interview experts from around the globe to share timely insights on K-12 trends; research-based approaches in need of greater reach; and innovative strategies to close global gaps.
On this episode of Mind the Gap, Jon Hutchinson is joined by journalist and author Jenny Anderson to discuss her acclaimed new book The Disengaged Teen—a powerful exploration of why so many young people are tuning out of school and what we can do about it. Drawing on extensive research, real-world stories, and her own experience as both a parent and reporter, Jenny introduces her framework of four learner modes—passenger, achiever, resistor, and explorer—and explains how these shifting states shape young people's engagement. Together, Jon and Jenny delve into the mental health crisis, the limitations of hyper-achievement, and why motivation and agency matter more than ever in the age of AI. Jenny argues that school systems must evolve to reflect the world students are entering, without sacrificing depth or rigour. “How you feel about learning,” she says, “is inseparable from how well you learn.” This conversation is both a wake-up call and a hopeful invitation—for educators, parents, and policymakers alike—to reimagine what it means to truly engage today's children and young people.Jenny Anderson is an author and an award-winning journalist who spent over a decade at The New York Times before pioneering coverage on the science of learning at Quartz. She contributes to TIME, The New York Times and The Atlantic, among other publications. Most recently, she has written The Disengaged Teen, which you can find at https://www.thedisengagedteen.com/. You can find Jenny on LinkedIn here.Jon Hutchinson is a former assistant headteacher of Reach Academy Feltham and is now a Director at the Reach Foundation. He has taught across primary and secondary and HE. In his spare time, Jon runs www.meno.acacdemy, a platform with free videos to support primary teachers to build their subject knowledge. Follow Jon on X @jon_hutchinson_ or Bluesky @jonhutchinson.bksy.social.This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/
On this episode of Mind the Gap, Emma Turner and Jon Hutchinson are reunited with co-host Tom Sherrington, returning from an extended break with fresh insights, global experiences, and a surprising new passion: yoga. Together, they reflect on what's changed—and what hasn't—in education during Tom's time away, diving into international comparisons, curriculum development, and the evolving culture around professional development. Tom shares what struck him on visits to schools around the world, and why he believes the UK remains a world leader in research-informed practice. The conversation zooms in and out, from cold calling and classroom talk routines to reimagining school leadership and restoring teacher autonomy. Emma and Jon also explore the growing tension between digital delivery and what Emma calls “analogue teaching”—real-time modelling, physical resources, and authentic interactions. “Modelling is the bridge,” Emma says, “between great curriculum content and what we know about how we learn.” In a rich and wide-ranging discussion, the trio call for a renewed focus on professionalism, collaboration, and the power of collective learning—reminding us all why great teaching still matters. Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on X @teacherhead Emma Turner FCCT is a school improvement advisor, education consultant, trainer and author. She has almost three decades of primary teaching, headship and leadership experience across the sector, working and leading in both MATs and LAs. She works nationally and internationally on school improvement including at single school level and at scale. She has a particular interest in research informed practice in the primary phase, early career development, and CPD design. Follow Emma on X @emma_turner75. Jon Hutchinson is a former assistant headteacher of Reach Academy Feltham and is now a Director at the Reach Foundation. He has taught across primary and secondary and HE. In his spare time, Jon runs www.meno.acacdemy, a platform with free videos to support primary teachers to build their subject knowledge. Follow Jon on X @jon_hutchinson_ or Bluesky @jonhutchinson.bksy.social. This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/
On this episode of Mind the Gap, Emma Turner is joined by Shareen Wilkinson, Executive Director of Education at LEO Academy Trust, and author of books for both children and teachers. Shareen shares insights from her new book, Disciplinary Literacy in Primary Schools, offering a fresh, practical lens on reading, writing, and speaking across the curriculum. Together, they explore what it really means for primary pupils to “write like historians” or “speak like scientists,” and why disciplinary literacy isn't just a secondary school concern. Shareen explains how rich talk, purposeful writing, and deep subject knowledge can—and should—start in Early Years, and reflects on how flexible working and thoughtful use of edtech can empower teachers and support inclusion. From phonics to AI, this episode is packed with wisdom, warmth, and practical strategies for educators leading literacy across the curriculum.Shareen is Executive Director of Education and leads on curriculum, teaching and learning and assessment across the LEO academy schools, as well as overseeing the central education team. Shareen has been in education for over 20 years and has fulfilled a wide range of senior leadership roles, including being an LA Lead Primary Adviser, English adviser and is still an education consultant to several organisations. Her subject specialisms are English, assessment, teaching and learning, and leadership. Shareen is an established educational author, writer and editor and has written educational resources and books for Hodder Education, DK children's books, Oxford University Press, Letts, Harper Collins and Teach Primary magazine. Follow her on X @ShareenAdviceEmma Turner FCCT is a school improvement advisor, education consultant, trainer and author. She has almost three decades of primary teaching, headship and leadership experience across the sector, working and leading in both MATs and LAs. She works nationally and internationally on school improvement including at single school level and at scale. She has a particular interest in research informed practice in the primary phase, early career development, and CPD design. Follow Emma on X @emma_turner75.
On this episode of Mind the Gap, Jon Hutchinson is joined by educator, researcher, and author Neil Gilbride to explore the powerful concept of self-efficacy—and why it matters now more than ever in schools. Drawing from his new book, Neil delves into the psychological foundations of self-efficacy, its relationship to agency, and the practical ways it can transform classroom practice. He shares insights from his own diverse career, from play schemes to academia, and explains how educators can help pupils—and themselves—navigate complexity, build resilience, and believe in their capacity to succeed. Together, Jon and Neil discuss Bandura's legacy, the critical importance of managing failure, and why effective modelling is about more than just showing how—it's about lending belief. “If we're not proactively thinking hard about using our capacity to share knowledge and ways of being and working,” Neil says, “then we're not using one of the most powerful weapons in our arsenal.” This episode offers a compelling and deeply human lens on what it means to teach, lead, and learn in today's education landscape.Dr Neil Gilbride CPSychol is an Honorary Senior Research Fellow at University of Worcester and Associate Dean at Ambition Institute, one of the largest professional development providers in England. He has amassed 20 years of experience working across education as an academic, practitioner and knowledge mobiliser. Neil's research interweaves adult developmental psychology and complexity theory to better understand educational leadership and practitioner development. His most recent book is Bandura's Self-Efficacy Theory in Action. Follow him on Bluesky @neilgilbride.bsky.socialJon Hutchinson is a former assistant headteacher of Reach Academy Feltham and is now a Director at the Reach Foundation. He has taught across primary and secondary and HE. In his spare time, Jon runs www.meno.acacdemy, a platform with free videos to support primary teachers to build their subject knowledge. Follow Jon on X @jon_hutchinson_ or Bluesky @jonhutchinson.bksy.social.This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/
On this episode of Mind the Gap, Jon Hutchinson and Emma Turner are joined by Saeed Atcha MBE, social entrepreneur, charity leader, and former Social Mobility Commissioner. Saeed shares his remarkable journey from growing up in care to founding Youth Leads UK at just 15 years old, creating a platform to amplify young voices and drive social change. Together, they explore the power of purpose, the role of schools as community hubs, and how educators can foster social action and entrepreneurship in students. Saeed reflects on the impact of mentors, the importance of resilience, and why schools must provide stability, happiness, and opportunity for all children. He challenges educators to think beyond academic success and equip students with the life skills that AI can't replace. “Everyone craves a purpose,” Saeed says. “If we give young people that, we change everything.” The conversation also delves into the shifting landscape of higher education, the rise of apprenticeships, and what schools can do to prepare students for an evolving world of work.Saeed Atcha MBE is the founding chief executive of Youth Leads UK, a charity he established aged 15 and has supported more than 7,000 disadvantaged young Greater Mancunians access volunteering opportunities and skills development programmes. He was made a recipient of an MBE in Her Majesty the Queen's New Year's Honours List, 2019, the youngest recipient that year. Saeed is a trustee of both youth employment charity Generation: You Employed, UK, and social mobility charity Migrant Leaders, a Non-Executive Director at social housing group Bolton at Home, an Associate Non-Executive Director at Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust, an Advisory Council Member to the Care Tech Foundation and Vice-Chair of Governors at his former secondary school, Ladybridge High School in Bolton. Saeed also serves as Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester. Follow him on X @saeedatchaEmma Turner FCCT is a school improvement advisor, education consultant, trainer and author. She has almost three decades of primary teaching, headship and leadership experience across the sector, working and leading in both MATs and LAs. She works nationally and internationally on school improvement including at single school level and at scale. She has a particular interest in research informed practice in the primary phase, early career development, and CPD design. Follow Emma on X @emma_turner75.Jon Hutchinson is a former assistant headteacher of Reach Academy Feltham and is now a Director at the Reach Foundation. He has taught across primary and secondary and HE. In his spare time, Jon runs www.meno.acacdemy, a platform with free videos to support primary teachers to build their subject knowledge. Follow Jon on X @jon_hutchinson_ or Bluesky @jonhutchinson.bksy.social.This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/
On this episode of Mind the Gap, Jon Hutchinson and Emma Turner are joined by Zach Groshell, educator, consultant, and author of Just Tell Them: Explicit Teaching and the Science of Learning. Zach shares insights from his book, which challenges traditional assumptions about instruction and advocates for a structured, interactive approach to teaching. Together, they explore the misconceptions surrounding explicit instruction, the balance between guidance and independence, and the pitfalls of ineffective professional development. Zach argues that too often, schools fail to provide teachers with concrete, actionable strategies, leaving educators to "figure it out" on their own. He emphasizes the need for clarity in teaching, saying, “The most empathetic, kind thing a teacher can do is to be crystal clear with their students.” The conversation touches on the importance of formative assessment, engagement techniques, and how primary and secondary educators can apply explicit teaching principles in age-appropriate ways.Zach Groshell, PhD is a highly distinguished teacher, instructional coach, and education consultant. Zach is based in Seattle, Washington, USA, and works with schools nationwide and internationally to develop high quality instruction based on the science of how kids learn. Zach hosts the podcast, Progressively Incorrect, and his blog can be found at educationrickshaw.com. Follow him on X or Bluesky at @mrzachgEmma Turner FCCT is a school improvement advisor, education consultant, trainer and author. She has almost three decades of primary teaching, headship and leadership experience across the sector, working and leading in both MATs and LAs. She works nationally and internationally on school improvement including at single school level and at scale. She has a particular interest in research informed practice in the primary phase, early career development, and CPD design. Follow Emma on X @emma_turner75.Jon Hutchinson is a former assistant headteacher of Reach Academy Feltham and is now a Director at the Reach Foundation. He has taught across primary and secondary and HE. In his spare time, Jon runs www.meno.acacdemy, a platform with free videos to support primary teachers to build their subject knowledge. Follow Jon on X @jon_hutchinson_ or Bluesky @jonhutchinson.bksy.social.This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/
On this episode of Mind the Gap, Jon Hutchinson and Emma Turner are joined by Chris Such, primary educator and author ofThe Art and Science of Teaching Primary Reading and his newest book,Primary Reading Simplified. Chris returns to discuss his latest book, which moves beyond research principles to offer a concrete model for reading instruction. Together, they explore the challenges of teaching reading beyond phonics, the importance of fluency practice, and the pitfalls of small-group guided reading. Chris challenges the assumption that comprehension can be taught through isolated question types, emphasizing instead the role of fluency and language knowledge in understanding text. He says, "The idea that we can shortcut reading development by drilling comprehension questions is a fundamental misconception." Reflecting on reading pedagogy, Chris highlights the power of whole texts over extracts and the importance of meaningful discussions in developing young readers. The discussion concludes with a call to rethink primary reading instruction: prioritizing fluency, rich classroom talk, and a love of literature.Christopher Such is a primary school teacher, school leader, teacher educator and consultant who has worked in schools since 2006. As part of Ambition Institute's learning design team, he co-designed their National Professional Qualification in Leading Literacy (NPQLL). He has contributed to the initial teacher training programmes for Teach East, Torch SCITT and Ambition Institute, focusing on reading instruction and mathematics pedagogy. In his work as an education consultant, he has worked with schools, multi-academy trusts, English hubs and wider organisations to develop teachers' understanding of reading and implement approaches to evidence-informed classroom teaching that prioritise meaningful experiences with texts. His first book, The Art and Science of Teaching Primary Reading, is required reading on many initial teacher training programmes and higher education courses. He is the author of the education blogPrimary Colour, and he can be found on social media platforms@Suchmo83.Emma Turner FCCT is a school improvement advisor, education consultant, trainer and author. She has almost three decades of primary teaching, headship and leadership experience across the sector, working and leading in both MATs and LAs. She works nationally and internationally on school improvement including at single school level and at scale. She has a particular interest in research informed practice in the primary phase, early career development, and CPD design. Follow Emma on X @emma_turner75.Jon Hutchinson is a former assistant headteacher of Reach Academy Feltham and is now a Director at the Reach Foundation. He has taught across primary and secondary and HE. In his spare time, Jon runs www.meno.acacdemy, a platform with free videos to support primary teachers to build their subject knowledge. Follow Jon on X @jon_hutchinson_ or Bluesky @jonhutchinson.bksy.social.This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/
On this episode of Mind the Gap, Emma and Jon reflect on a year of transformation in education and discuss the insights gained from their fascinating guests. This annual roundup dives into critical topics such as the growing recognition of Early Years education, flexible working in leadership, and the evolving challenges in recruitment and retention across the profession.Emma shares her delight at seeing Early Years gaining prominence, with voices like Julian Grenier, Dan Wuori, and Liz Pemberton championing the importance of play, lived experiences, and robust early education practices. Jon brings his perspective on the flexible working debate, emphasizing the need for bespoke approaches that prioritize sustainable career models for educators. Together, they discuss Emma Sheppard's contributions on balancing parenthood and teaching, the nuanced challenges facing leaders in the education sector, and how these align with new government initiatives.The episode also revisits pivotal moments, like Leora Cruddas's vision of schools as civic anchors and Aziza Ajak's call for context-driven leadership development. As they look ahead, Emma and Jon encourage a collaborative and evidence-informed approach to shaping the next generation of educational leaders and addressing the complexities of modern schooling. Emma Turner FCCT is a school improvement advisor, education consultant, trainer and author. She has almost three decades of primary teaching, headship and leadership experience across the sector, working and leading in both MATs and LAs. She works nationally and internationally on school improvement including at single school level and at scale. She has a particular interest in research informed practice in the primary phase, early career development, and CPD design. Follow Emma on X @emma_turner75. Jon Hutchinson is a former assistant headteacher of Reach Academy Feltham and is now a Director at the Reach Foundation. He has taught across primary and secondary and HE. In his spare time, Jon runs www.meno.acacdemy, a platform with free videos to support primary teachers to build their subject knowledge. Follow Jon on X @jon_hutchinson_ or Bluesky @jonhutchinson.bksy.social This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Emma Turner and Jon Hutchinson are joined by Liz Pemberton, renowned as "The Black Nursery Manager" and a transformative voice in early years education. Liz reflects on her journey from managing family-run nurseries to establishing her anti-racist training and consultancy company. She delves into the significance of cultural safety, psychological safety, and her pioneering "Four Es" framework for embedding anti-racist practices in educational settings. Together, they explore how educators can foster belonging, challenge racial biases, and create joyful, inclusive spaces for all children. Liz also discusses her experiences navigating societal resistance, tackling "culture wars," and the importance of professional love in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). This thought-provoking conversation emphasizes the power of intentional practice, collective action, and unlearning in shaping equitable early education. Liz Pemberton is an award-winning educator, trainer, and advocate for anti-racist practice in Early Years education. She managed a Birmingham-based nursery that became a community hub, emphasizing anti-racist pedagogy and belonging through her "Four Es" framework. A qualified secondary teacher and lecturer with a Master's in Early Childhood Studies, Liz has influenced countless educators, parents, and policymakers through her training, writing, and social media presence. Recognized for her contributions, Liz's accolades include being named one of Serendipity Institute's 100 Black Women Who Have Made a Mark and winning multiple awards for her commitment to equity and education. Check out her website https://www.theblacknurserymanager.com/ Emma Turner FCCT is a school improvement advisor, education consultant, trainer and author. She has almost three decades of primary teaching, headship and leadership experience across the sector, working and leading in both MATs and LAs. She works nationally and internationally on school improvement including at single school level and at scale. She has a particular interest in research informed practice in the primary phase, early career development, and CPD design. Follow Emma on X @emma_turner75. Jon Hutchinson is a former assistant headteacher of Reach Academy Feltham and is now a Director at the Reach Foundation. He has taught across primary and secondary and HE. In his spare time, Jon runs www.meno.acacdemy, a platform with free videos to support primary teachers to build their subject knowledge. Follow Jon on X @jon_hutchinson_ or Bluesky @jonhutchinson.bksy.social This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/
On this episode of Mind the Gap, Jon Hutchinson and Emma Turner are joined by Leora Cruddas, CEO of the Confederation of School Trusts. Leora shares her journey from teaching in apartheid-era South Africa to becoming a leading voice in educational policy and academy trust leadership. Together, they explore the evolution of academy trusts, the importance of stable leadership, and the challenges of teacher recruitment and retention. Leora highlights the role of trusts as civic anchors, emphasizing their capacity to foster collaboration and serve as pillars of community well-being. She says, "The point at which we start making decisions on behalf of our children from the vested interests of adults is the point that our education system will start to fail." Reflecting on her role, Leora underscores the need for educational leaders to balance stability with innovation, as well as the need for trust leaders to tell adopt a narrative around trusts that focuses on the moral purpose of education. The discussion concludes with a compelling vision for the future of education: building systems that prioritize public trust, equity, and human flourishing. Leora Cruddas is the founding Chief Executive of the Confederation of School Trusts – the national organisation and sector body for school trusts in England. She has advised successive governments and sits on several Department for Education advisory bodies. She was recently the vice chair of the Head Teacher Standards Review Group, a member of the external advisory group for the Schools White Paper, SEND National Implementation Board and the Regulatory and Commissioning Review. Prior to founding CST, she was Director of Policy and Public Relations for the Association of School and College Leaders. Leora has six years of experience as a director of education in two London local authorities. She is a visiting professor at UCL Institute of Education, and was made a CBE in the 2022 New Year's Honours. Follow her on X @LeoraCruddas. Emma Turner FCCT is a school improvement advisor, education consultant, trainer and author. She has almost three decades of primary teaching, headship and leadership experience across the sector, working and leading in both MATs and LAs. She works nationally and internationally on school improvement including at single school level and at scale. She has a particular interest in research informed practice in the primary phase, early career development, and CPD design. Follow Emma on X @emma_turner75. Jon Hutchinson is a former assistant headteacher of Reach Academy Feltham and is now a Director at the Reach Foundation. He has taught across primary and secondary and HE. In his spare time, Jon runs www.meno.acacdemy, a platform with free videos to support primary teachers to build their subject knowledge. Follow Jon on X @jon_hutchinson_ or Bluesky @jonhutchinson.bksy.social. This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Jon Hutchinson and Emma Turner welcome Aziza Ajak, an influential voice in education leadership and curriculum development. Aziza shares her journey from classroom teacher to vice principal, offering insights into her impactful work on curriculum coherence and systemic equity. Together, they explore the challenges and rewards of bridging primary and secondary education, especially in all-through schools, emphasizing the need for unified leadership and consistent curricular goals. Aziza also discusses her initiatives to improve diversity in educational leadership, notably through her involvement with Mission 44 and as co-founder of 100 Black Headteachers. Reflecting on the complexities of representation and structural barriers, Aziza underscores the importance of mentorship and strategic professional development. This conversation provides an in-depth look at how purposeful collaboration and courageous decision-making can shape equitable and inclusive school environments. Aziza Ajak is currently Vice Principal at Future Academies. She was part of the founding leadership team of a new school and has helped to establish the school as one of the best in the borough. Aziza's recent voluntary experience includes being a trustee on the Teach First Board. Aziza also currently serves as a trustee for Mission 44 and co-founded 100 Black Headteachers. You can find out more about her and her work on her LinkedIn or follow her on X @missaaja Emma Turner FCCT is a school improvement advisor, education consultant, trainer and author. She has almost three decades of primary teaching, headship and leadership experience across the sector, working and leading in both MATs and LAs. She works nationally and internationally on school improvement including at single school level and at scale. She has a particular interest in research informed practice in the primary phase, early career development, and CPD design. Follow Emma on X @emma_turner75. Jon Hutchinson is a former assistant headteacher of Reach Academy Feltham and is now a Director at the Reach Foundation. He has taught across primary and secondary and HE. In his spare time, Jon runs www.meno.acacdemy, a platform with free videos to support primary teachers to build their subject knowledge. Follow Jon on X @jon_hutchinson_ or Bluesky @jonhutchinson.bksy.social Aziza has published three blog posts reflecting on the topics covered in this podcast. You can view them here: https://venturingintoschoolleadership.wordpress.com/2024/10/27/fragile-ambition-part-1/ https://venturingintoschoolleadership.wordpress.com/2024/10/30/fragile-ambition-part-2/ https://venturingintoschoolleadership.wordpress.com/2024/11/03/the-trust-to-school-relationship/ This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Emma Turner welcomes Emma Sheppard, founder of the Maternity Teacher Paternity Teacher (MTPT) Project. Together, they explore Sheppard's journey in founding the project, starting with her own experiences of motherhood and her passion for maintaining her professional identity as a teacher. The conversation dives into the challenges working parents face in balancing their professional and parental roles, with a specific focus on the motherhood penalty in education. Sheppard discusses how her organisation provides coaching and community support to educators navigating parenthood while advocating for systemic change to better support parents in the workforce. The Emmas touch on key issues like gender equity, leadership roles, and flexible working arrangements, and emphasises the importance of empowering teachers to thrive both personally and professionally. Emma Sheppard is the Founder of The MTPT Project, the UK's charity for parent-teachers. A former English Teacher and Lead Practitioner, she spent twelve years teaching and leading ITT provision in schools in Hertfordshire, South London and Vietnam. She completed her Diploma in Personal Performance Coaching with The Coaching Academy in 2022 and secured her ICF ACC in 2023. Emma has held various positions of responsibility, including pastoral and curriculum roles. She has acted as line manager for the school librarian and EAL department, delivered teaching and learning training on foci including memory, homework and curriculum updates, and has years of experience as professional co-ordinating mentor for Schools Direct, Teach First and PGCE trainee pathways. Find out more about Emma and MTPT at https://www.mtpt.org.uk/ Emma Turner FCCT is a school improvement advisor, education consultant, trainer and author. She has almost three decades of primary teaching, headship and leadership experience across the sector, working and leading in both MATs and LAs. She works nationally and internationally on school improvement including at single school level and at scale. She has a particular interest in research informed practice in the primary phase, early career development, and CPD design. Follow Emma on X @emma_turner75. This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Emma Turner and Jon Hutchinson welcome Dr. Dan Wuori, a renowned expert in early childhood education. Together, they discuss the vital role of early years development, highlighting Dan's work in policy advocacy and his social media presence, where he blends adorable videos of children with deep analysis of early development principles. Dan shares insights from his book, The Daycare Myth, and explores the significant impact of early childhood experiences on lifelong success. The conversation covers policy challenges, the economics of early care, and the importance of nurturing relationships in shaping young minds. Dan Wuori is the Founder and President of Early Childhood Policy Solutions (a public policy consultancy focused on the needs of America's young children and their families) and Strategic Advisor on Early Childhood at the Saul Zaentz Charitable Foundation. Dr. Wuori joined The Hunt Institute, a North Carolina-based education policy support to the nation's governors and state elected leaders, as its founding Director of Early Learning. He continues to serve as The Institute's Senior Early Childhood Advisor. A former kindergarten teacher and school district administrator, Dan served as the Deputy Director of South Carolina First Steps to School Readiness – the state's comprehensive, public-private early learning initiative. His newest book, The Daycare Myth: What We Get Wrong About Early Care and Education (and What We Should Do About It), sounds the alarm on critical and costly disconnects between the science of early development and the US approach to public policy. Follow him on X @DanWuori. Emma Turner FCCT is a school improvement advisor, education consultant, trainer and author. She has almost three decades of primary teaching, headship and leadership experience across the sector, working and leading in both MATs and LAs. She works nationally and internationally on school improvement including at single school level and at scale. She has a particular interest in research informed practice in the primary phase, early career development, and CPD design. Follow Emma on X @emma_turner75. Jon Hutchinson is a former assistant headteacher of Reach Academy Feltham and is now a Director at the Reach Foundation. He has taught across primary and secondary and HE. In his spare time, Jon runs www.meno.acacdemy, a platform with free videos to support primary teachers to build their subject knowledge. Follow Jon on X @jon_hutchinson_ or Bluesky @jonhutchinson.bksy.social This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Jon Hutchinson and Emma Turner are joined by Julian Grenier, a leading expert in early years education. Together, they discuss the foundations of early childhood learning, focusing on the crucial role of relationships and the development of coherent, supportive environments for young learners. Julian emphasizes the need for consistency in early years curricula, saying, “If we can get it right from the very beginning, we can set children on a much stronger trajectory.” The trio also explore the challenges faced by educators in the early years and the importance of community engagement in supporting children's development. Finally, Julian shares insights from his work on the Early Years Foundation Stage and his thoughts on fostering professional development in early education. Julian Grenier joined the EEF as a Senior Content and Engagement Manager (Early Years) in 2024. Before joining the EEF, Julian was the headteacher of Sheringham Nursery School and Children's Centre in Newham, East London. During this time, he also led East London Research School. Julian has also been Ofsted's Early Education lead, and Senior Early Years Adviser in Tower Hamlets. He is a trustee of the charity Thrive at Five. He has written several best-selling books about early education and care, including Putting the EYFS Curriculum Into Practice. Follow him on X @juliangenier Emma Turner FCCT is a school improvement advisor, education consultant, trainer and author. She has almost three decades of primary teaching, headship and leadership experience across the sector, working and leading in both MATs and LAs. She works nationally and internationally on school improvement including at single school level and at scale. She has a particular interest in research informed practice in the primary phase, early career development, and CPD design. Follow Emma on X @emma_turner75. Jon Hutchinson is a former assistant headteacher of Reach Academy Feltham and is now a Director at the Reach Foundation. He has taught across primary and secondary and HE. In his spare time, Jon runs www.meno.acacdemy, a platform with free videos to support primary teachers to build their subject knowledge. Follow Jon on X @jon_hutchinson_ or Bluesky @jonhutchinson.bksy.social This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/
In this special season finale of Mind The Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner are joined by Yamina Bibi, a dynamic deputy head teacher and author of Thriving in Your First Years of Teaching. Yamina shares her journey from a shy, introverted new teacher to an influential leader in education, driven by her passion for teaching, learning, and mentoring. The conversation highlights her dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion, discussing the importance of role models and networks in supporting early career teachers. Yamina emphasises practical strategies for thriving in the classroom, managing workload, and building professional relationships. The conversation also touches on the significance of coaching and the impact of positive mentorship on teacher retention. Yamina Bibi is a Deputy Headteacher, English teacher, Coach and Consultant in London with experience of leading Teaching and Learning, Curriculum, and Mentoring and Coaching of teachers at all stages of their career. Yamina has a NPQSL and a Masters in Teaching from University College London, Institute of Education and is a Fellow of the Chartered College of Teaching. She is also a network leader for WomenEd, a global charity organisation seeking to support female teachers and leaders in education. Yamina is also the co-host of Series 1 of The #DiverseEd podcast and is a contributing writer for several educational books. Yamina regularly blogs about coaching and mentoring, school leadership, effective research informed practice at www.msybeebs@wordpress.com. Follow her on X at @msybibi Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on X @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Follow Emma on X @emma_turner75. This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner are joined by Dr. Megan Sumeracki, co-founder of The Learning Scientists. Megan shares her journey from being an educational psychology professor to co-creating The Learning Scientists, highlighting the motivation and challenges behind making cognitive science research accessible. The discussion delves into the concept of elaboration, exploring how connecting new information to existing knowledge enhances learning. They also touch on memory and aging, addressing how cognitive processes change over time and strategies to mitigate these effects. Megan provides practical suggestions for effective retrieval practices, emphasizing techniques that help students retain and recall information more efficiently. Lastly, they discuss the complexities of translating research into real classroom practices, offering insights on bridging the gap between theory and application to foster evidence-based teaching. Dr. Megan Sumeracki is a cognitive psychologist specializing in learning and memory. She received her Masters in Experimental Psychology from Washington University in St. Louis and her PhD in Cognitive Psychology from Purdue University. She is now an Associate Professor at Rhode Island College teaching, advising, writing, and conducting research with students. She co-founded the Learning Scientists in January 2016 and is the author of three educational books, the most recent being The Psychology of Memory. Follow her on X @DrSumeracki Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on X @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Follow Emma on X @emma_turner75. This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner are joined by Josh Goodrich, founder of Steplab. Josh shares his journey from being an English teacher and deputy principal to creating Steplab, an organization focused on improving professional development through instructional coaching. The discussion covers the core elements of Josh's book, Responsive Coaching including awareness, insights, goals, steps, and habits. They delve into the challenges of helping teachers change, the importance of situational awareness, and balancing structured approaches with the relational aspect of coaching. Josh offers insights on scaling effective PD, overcoming resistance from sceptical teachers, and ensuring impactful coaching conversations. Josh Goodrich is an English Teacher, school leader and MAT CPD lead based in London. He also works on the learning design team at the Ambition Institute. He now spends most of his time working on his instructional coaching platform Steplab, with the aim of giving every school the power to run an impactful coaching programme. Josh recently published his new coaching book Responsive Coaching. You can follow him on X @Josh_CPD Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on X @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Follow Emma on X @emma_turner75. This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner are joined by David Didau, known in the education blogosphere as The Learning Spy. David shares his journey in education, discussing his transition from teaching to becoming a prominent voice in education and research, and then back to teaching. The conversation explores key topics such as the role of cognitive science in teaching, the importance of evidence-based practices, and the challenges of implementing these practices in schools. David offers insights into different perspectives on curriculum, the significance of metacognition, and the impact of school culture on student outcomes. He also delves into the intricacies of curriculum design and the importance of preserving the institutional memory and wisdom of experienced teachers. David Didau is Senior Lead Practitioner for English at Ormiston Academies Trust. His blog, The Learning Spy, has had over a million visitors and won a number of awards. Didau writes about ordinary teachers' constraints and irritations, exploring his own successes and failures from his years of teaching, as well as the latest education research and cognitive psychology. He has also written four books exploring different aspects of teaching and learning through cognitive science. His most recent book is titled: Bringing the English Curriculum to Life: A Field Guide for Making Meaning in English. Follow David on Twitter @DavidDidau Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner are joined by Christine Counsell, founder of Opening Worlds and a key figure in curriculum development. Christine discusses her journey from a history teacher to running the history PGCE course at Cambridge University and eventually founding Opening Worlds. She explains how her company supports primary schools in developing a fully resourced curriculum that integrates history, geography, and religious education with a strong focus on oracy and storytelling. The conversation delves into the importance of cumulative sufficiency in curriculum design, the unique opportunities primary education offers for connecting different subjects, and the critical role of vocabulary in helping students navigate and understand the world. Christine also shares insights into the process of training teachers to implement these curricula effectively, emphasizing the value of storytelling and narrative in engaging students. Christine Counsell was a history teacher, subject lead, and deputy headteacher before she led the history PGCE course at the University of Cambridge for 19 years. At Cambridge, she worked nationally and internationally with policy makers, scholars, teachers and teacher educators in history education. Christine later became Director of Education of a multi-academy trust serving primary and secondary schools in areas of disadvantage. She has published widely, including many curriculum resources, and is editor of the journal, Teaching History. Follow her on X @Counsell_C Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On this episode of Mind the Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner are joined by Nikki Sullivan and Rachel Higginson to delve into the significance of oracy in education. The discussion explores the multifaceted role of oracy, emphasizing its importance not just in speaking and listening but in fostering confident and effective communication. Nikki and Rachel highlight the necessity of integrating speaking and listening skills into the wider curriculum, as well as the importance of creating communication-conducive learning environments and the value of teacher oracy in fostering a supportive culture within schools. Throughout the episode, the group provides practical examples and strategies for developing presentation skills in students, advocating for a balance between structured guidance and natural expression. Nikki Sullivan is Deputy Headteacher working in a comprehensive secondary school in Bradford. She has worked in both pastoral and academic senior leadership and now leads on teaching & learning and staff development. Nikki is working on a new book called Unlocking Oracy which will be coming out soon. Follow her on X @Nikki__Sullivan Rachel Higginson has been working in education for 25 years. Her aim is to support young people to develop the knowledge, skills and character to make a difference in the modern world. She is a keynote speaker, school improvement facilitator, curriculum designer, primary adviser, a collaborator with Myatt & Co, and also the curator of the Finding my Voice project. Follow her on X @creativeHigg Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75 This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On this bonus episode of Mind the Gap, Tom Sherrington talks to Bron Ryrie Jones about responsive teaching. The two discuss the hurdles of gathering information in real-time and the procedural changes needed to embed responsive habits into teaching. Bron emphasises the difficulty of overcoming embedded teaching habits, while Tom underscores the importance of every child's participation in the classroom. They explore practical strategies like cold calling, reframing questions, and creating a classroom culture where it's okay to be wrong. Tom and Bron also address the gap between teaching intentions and actual classroom dynamics, advocating for short feedback loops and planned checks for understanding. With real-life examples and practical advice, they offer valuable insights into making responsive teaching a seamless part of everyday instruction. Bron Ryrie Jones supports teachers and instructional leaders to develop their expertise. She has worked with over 20,000 teachers and leaders around Australia and abroad, and is a sought-after designer of professional improvement programs. Bron is a published author on teacher learning and has has designed and delivered large-scale bespoke professional development programs for varied organisations throughout Australia. Follow Bron on X @BronRyrieJones Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on X @teacherhead --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On this episode of Mind the Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner are joined by Jade Pearce and Isaac Moore, co-authors of a new book, Bjork & Bjork's Desirable Difficulties in Action. The four of them talk about what the term 'desirable difficulties' refers to, and how using challenging pedagogical strategies can actually aid pupils' learning. Jade and Isaac explain much of Richard and Elizabeth Bjork's research in succinct chunks with practical examples. This includes parts on spacing, interleaving, retrieval practice, independent study strategies, and more. Jade Pearce is Trust Head of Education at The de Ferrers Trust. She is the Evidence Lead in Education for the Research Schools Network and a regular speaker and presenter at education conferences. Jade previously authored the best-selling book 'What Every Teacher Needs to Know: How to embed evidence-informed teaching and learning in your school'. Follow her on Twitter @PearceMrs Isaac Moore is a Deputy Headteacher with a National Professional Qualification for Headship who focuses much of his work on education professional development. He is also an expert in reading and curriculum assessment. Follow him on Twitter @isaacmoore7 Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75 This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
In this head to head episode of Mind the Gap, Tom and Emma discuss educational ideas that have recently captivated them, as well as some of the latest developments in the field. Emma has been thinking about the ways in which even beautifully designed curricula need well thought out task design to keep classes from becoming too formulaic across subjects. Tom, on the other hand, is looking at the newly announced panel on oracy, acknowledging both that people tend to worry about government mandates, but also that we need more pupils speaking with confidence. Later, Emma brings up the idea of expertise, inspired by the book Expert: Understanding the Path to Mastery by Roger Kneebone. Finally, the two discuss the limits on classroom observation and Tom gives his thoughts about the recent conferences he attended across the pond in the United States, including a ResearchEd. Listen to the full episode to hear all about it. Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75 This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner are joined by René Kneyber and Valentina Devid, co-founders of Toets Revolutie in the Netherlands and co-authors of the upcoming book Formative action: From instrument to design. The four of them talk about the concept of formative action, which is purposefully named to steer clear of the sometimes-problematic term 'assessment'. They walk through the five steps involved in formative action, and highlight how it can be empowering for both teachers - aiding their learning processes - and students - giving them agency and independence. René Kneyber is a former mathematics teacher and currently a consultant and book publisher in the Netherlands. He has written and edited multiple high-profile books on classroom authority and discipline, including the Dutch book Het Alternatief and the Dutch translation of Embedding Formative Assessment by Dylan Wiliam. Follow him on Twitter @rkneyber_EN Valentina Devid is a co-founder and trainer at Toets Revolutie. She is an experienced secondary school teacher, assessment expert, speaker, and education consultant now primarily focussed on formative assessment. Follow her on Twitter @valentinadevid Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75 This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner are joined by Carl Hendrick, author of two books about the science of teaching and learning and a third about bridging the gap between research and practice. Carl said he approached finding the research papers for his books in the same way that he would have compiled an album of seminal classic rock tracks, but with the criterion of having the greatest use for teachers and school leaders. The discussion turned to how education research is conducted and how "a lot of debates in education are people in different stages talking past one another". Carl also says that we now have a good understanding of the science of learning, but the three agree that especially in the early years and early primary education, even research-proven pedagogical practices like interleaving can't take the place of play-based learning, for example. Listen now to hear more on how teachers can really engage with educational research. Carl Hendrick works at the Academica University of Applied Sciences in Amsterdam where his focus is on bridging the gap between research and practice. Carl was a secondary English teacher for 18 years in a range of different contexts and completed his PhD in education at King's College London. He is the co-author of How Learning Happens, How Teaching Happens, and What Does this Look Like in the Classroom. Follow Carl on Twitter @C_Hendrick Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner are joined by Jon Hutchinson. The three of them talk about Jon's role at Reach which aims to weave five important threads into their community partners' educational systems: curricular coherence, understanding the principles of great teaching, maintaining relationships, understanding the community, and strong leadership. A large part of the conversation focused on the current curricular incoherence that plagues many schools. Jon says about teachers, "You're just one small part of that kid's journey, and it is incumbent on you and on the broader system to think about that journey in a much more coherent way." Finally, the trio discuss Reach's booklets, the Meno Academy videos Jon makes with his brother, and the effectiveness of instructional coaching. Jon Hutchinson is a former assistant headteacher of Reach Academy Feltham now director of Reach Foundation. He has taught across both KS1 and KS2, and also tutors on Ambition Institute's Masters in Expert Teaching. Jon has sat on expert panels for the Department for Education, Ofsted and the Standards and Testing Agency. Follow Jon on Twitter @jon_hutchinson_ Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner are joined by Amanda Wilson. The three of them talk through Amanda's unorthodox journey to headship, and the traits that she has found most important throughout her educational career: confidence, authenticity, and empowerment. Those three themes shine through in her book, Letters to a Young Generation: Aspiring School Leaders, and Amanda says they are especially important for Black leaders, whose confidence can be mistaken for aggressiveness, and whose authenticity can be difficult to maintain without a strong support network. Amanda believes it is crucial for leaders to keep an eye out for promising candidates and "send the elevator back down" to help bring them up, which is the idea behind her company Crux Leadership Development. Amanda is the headteacher of St Alfege with St Peter's CofE Primary School and has 25 years' experience in the education sector. She is a qualified coach with an MA in Coaching and Mentoring from Oxford Brookes University and is an EMCC Senior Practitioner. She has a track record for supporting teachers in securing leadership roles, and in 2023 Amanda published the book Letters to a Young Generation: Aspiring School Leaders which aims to encourage the next generation of Black school leaders. Follow her on Twitter @AmandaWilson910 Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner are joined by Professor Rob Coe. The three of them talk through the history of Rob's work as a teacher and then a researcher. Rob's work on the EEF Toolkit and the Sutton Trust report highlighted existing evidence about cost-effective interventions, and the publications shattered a lot of educators' previously held beliefs. Rob says that subsequent arguments with teachers led to discussions about pedagogy, and he maintains that educators need to be focussed on actual learning, not proxies for learning. At the end of the episode, Tom, Emma, and Rob talk about the latest educational craze - instructional coaching - and what the research actually says about it, as well as where research about coaching is headed. Professor Rob Coe is Director of Research and Development at Evidence-Based Education and a Senior Associate at the Education Endowment Foundation. He was previously Professor of Education and Director of the Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring at Durham University, where he worked for 20 years doing research, evaluation, teaching and policy engagement. Rob was a co-author of the EEF's Teaching and Learning Toolkit, the Sutton Trust report ‘What makes great teaching?' and the ‘Developing Great Teaching' report for the Teacher Development Trust. Follow him on Twitter at @ProfCoe Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner are joined by Zaretta Hammond. The three of them talk through much of Zaretta's work, identifying the components of the ready for rigor framework, the differences between 'shallow' and 'deep' culture, and how culturally responsive teaching involves leveraging cultures to create a richer learning environment. They also cover how to build a rapport with students, the idea of 'active demandingness', and finally close on the idea that teaching isn't the art of being nice - it is readying students for rigour (or rigor), as there is a natural joy and satisfaction that emerges from rigorous learning. Zaretta Hammond is a former classroom English teacher who has been doing instructional design, school coaching, and professional development around the issues of equity, literacy, and culturally responsive teaching for the past 18 years. She has trained instructional coaches in reading development, especially targeted at students of colour and English learners, and is the author of Culturally Responsive Teaching and The Brain. Follow her on Twitter @Ready4rigor and check out her blog at ready4rigor.com Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner are joined by educational power couple Dr Pippa and Bradley Busch. The four discuss the effects of COVID on children's development, how to make the school environment more low stakes to make students more comfortable, and their favourite classroom strategies to help pupils learn better. Dr Pippa Busch is an Educational and Child Psychologist with over 20 years of experience of working in schools and children's services. She is an evidence-based practitioner specialising in ASD and attachment. Follow her on Twitter @PippaBusch Bradley Busch is a Health and Care Professions Council registered psychologist and director of InnerDrive. He has worked with over 300 schools helping them use psychological research to improve learning. In sport, he has worked with Premier league footballers and has consulted with Team GB Olympians and Paralympians. He is the co-author of the best-selling book The Science of Learning. Follow him on Twitter @BradleyKBusch Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner are joined by special guest Lekha Sharma. The trio discusses how to build a school culture, and Lekha talks about how she believes a positive school culture is a prerequisite for great curriculum and pedagogy. Lekha Sharma is a School Improvement Lead for the Avanti Schools Trust, leading on curriculum and assessment and has over ten years of experience teaching and leading in schools in a range of contexts. She is the author of the recently published book Building Culture: A handbook to harnessing human nature to create strong school teams. Follow Lekha on Twitter @teacherfeature2 Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specialising in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
In this episode, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner delve into the profound insights and powerful moments experienced during their conversations with incredible guests. They highlight the importance of making primary education accessible to all and teachers' duty to leave a lasting legacy through their teaching. Tom and Emma discuss the significance of routines and norms that support teachers in creating successful learning environments. They ponder why some of Tom's ideas receive criticism despite their potential to greatly improve schools. They marvel at the transformative approach of Mark McCourt, whose teaching style creates a connected set of ideas starting from simple concepts. In their interviews, the duo expresses deep appreciation for the expertise shared by Dylan Wiliam, Efrat Furst, and Sarah Cottingham, emphasizing how these sessions serve as professional development opportunities. They also explore the value of cognitive science research in primary practice and its relevance for secondary teachers. Throughout the episode, Tom and Emma spotlight inspiring individuals such as John Thompson, Johnny Utley, Caroline Derbyshire, Vic Goddard, and the enigmatic storyteller Sufian Sadiq. They acknowledge the influence these guests have had on their thinking and the impact they have made within the education community. As hosts Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner reflect on the impact of their guests, it becomes evident that Mind The Gap is more than just a series of interviews. The platform introduces listeners to various voices, ideas, and strategies that can transform the educational landscape. From influential academic figures to inspiring stories of resilience, each episode adds to the collective knowledge and drive for positive change. As listeners, we are encouraged to take these lessons and inspirations into our professional journeys, creating a brighter future for education. Participants Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Teaching WalkThrus 2: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Teaching WalkThrus 3: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherheadEmma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners, Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the Flexible Working Narrative for Education, Simplicitus: The Interconnected Primary Curriculum & Effective Subject Leadership, Simplicitus Altius: Leading the Interconnected Primary Curriculum and Initium: Cognitive science and research-informed primary practice. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner are joined by special guest Ben Newmark. The conversation begins with the trio discussing the critical topic of breaking barriers and embracing individual differences in education while also sharing their insights, experiences, and concerns regarding the current education system and its approach toward catering to the diverse needs of students. From skepticism towards methods that only focus on clever children to the importance of not categorizing all students under the umbrella term of SEND, this episode challenges conventional thinking and calls for a more inclusive and personalized approach to education. As the conversation draws to a close, it becomes clear that breaking barriers and embracing individual differences in education is essential. This episode of Mind The Gap offers valuable insights into the challenges faced by the education system while advocating for a more inclusive and personalized approach. It serves as a reminder that education should be a transformative journey, empowering students of all abilities to reach their full potential. Only by embracing the uniqueness of each learner can we unlock a future where education truly knows no limits. Participants Ben Newmark is a highly experienced teacher and senior leader with over 20 years of expertise. He is also the author of the book "Why Teach?", which aims to provide guidance to schools and teachers by answering the questions that Ben had struggled with throughout his career. Through his blog, Ben Newmark, Ben talks about various topics such as curriculum, explicit instruction, intelligent assessment, leadership, and history. Additionally, you can follow Ben on Twitter @bennewmark. Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Teaching WalkThrus 2: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Teaching WalkThrus 3: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners, Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the Flexible Working Narrative for Education, Simplicitus: The Interconnected Primary Curriculum & Effective Subject Leadership, Simplicitus Altius: Leading the Interconnected Primary Curriculum and Initium: Cognitive science and research-informed primary practice. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On the latest installment of the Mr Barton Maths Podcast, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner assume the roles of guests and engage in a lively discussion. For this special episode, Craig Barton and Ollie Lovell are joined by Emma Turner and Tom Sherrington to discuss coaching, the view from the back of a lesson, pre-testing, implied competencies, and more! Access the show-notes here: mrbartonmaths.com/blog/tools-and-tips-for-teachers-6 Ollie Lovell is a maths and science teacher from Australia, an author, and my longtime, bitter podcasting rival. We have decided to get together once a month to share three things we have each learned and get the other's take on it. This month, we have guests! We are joined by the fantastic primary specialist Emma Turner and Walkthrus guru Tom Sherrington from the Mind the Gap podcast. This episode was initially published on Mr Barton Maths Podcast. Craig Barton interviews guests from the wonderful world of education about their approaches to teaching, educational research, and more. All show notes, resources, and videos here: https://www.mrbartonmaths.com/blog/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner delve into the intricacies of teacher training, coaching, and the hurdles faced during implementation. They explore the importance of listening to personal experiences, the value of partnerships, the evolving role of coaching, and the need for a holistic approach. The episode begins with a powerful observation: rather than defending teacher training programs when confronted with negative individual experiences, we should listen and learn from those experiences. Tom and Emma stress the importance of considering these personal stories, allowing them to shape improvements in the sector. They highlight that teacher training is a product of various factors, including higher education and school placements, and therefore, a deeper understanding of individuals' journeys is crucial. The conversation moves towards a call for viewing teacher training as a holistic, integrated process over three years rather than focusing solely on immediate readiness. Tom and Emma discuss that theoretical input from higher education at the beginning of training may be more impactful, considering the partnership with schools. Through this partnership, organizations like Steplab come into play as valuable resources and platforms for instructional coaching. The episode touches on the newly published criteria for trainees, highlighting several changes that mainly affect those in their early career stages. One significant change is the increase in teaching hours, with trainees starting with 15 hours. The hosts express concerns about the impact of this heavy teaching load on trainee retention, workload, and the quality of their teaching sessions. They question how schools will manage this change and allocate curriculum hours for trainees while doubting the ability of trainees and schools to cope with these adjustments. The hosts delve into the Early Career Framework (ECF) and the importance of instructional coaching for novice and experienced teachers. They express concern that experienced teachers may forget the challenges newcomers face and stress the need for ongoing support throughout a teacher's career. Tom and Emma highlight the mindset shift required when coaching a teacher during a lesson, moving from top-down judgments to a collaborative and supportive approach. They applaud schools for embracing this cultural change and fostering an environment that nurtures teachers' progress and development. Participants Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Teaching WalkThrus 2: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Teaching WalkThrus 3: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners, Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the Flexible Working Narrative for Education, Simplicitus: The Interconnected Primary Curriculum & Effective Subject Leadership, Simplicitus Altius: Leading the Interconnected Primary Curriculum and Initium: Cognitive science and research-informed primary practice. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom and Emma are joined by special guest Alom Shaha, a teacher with over 25 years of experience. Alom shares his journey from working in television to rediscovering his passion for teaching and the sense of community it provides. During the conversation, Alom discusses his upcoming children's book that aims to teach young readers about scientific discoveries, specifically how rainbows are formed (How To Find a Rainbow). Inspired by his children, Alom found it easy to develop the characters in the book, as they were based on his daughters. The discussion also delves into Alom's belief that the teaching profession is undervalued when compared to other professions. He expresses his deep frustration with the numerous challenges and immense pressure that teachers constantly face. He also shares his experience writing a book about atheism and non-belief for young people, discussing the positive feedback he received and the importance of allowing people from Muslim backgrounds to openly explore atheism (The Young Atheist's Handbook). He addresses the complexities of identity and the role Twitter plays in muddying the waters. Reflecting on his upbringing and his children, Alom underscores the importance of nurturing children's curiosity and providing access to resources and supportive environments for learning. He takes responsibility for creating a positive learning environment and hopes that all children can encounter teachers and peers who encourage their thirst for knowledge. The conversation concludes with Alom sharing the challenges he faced while writing his current book, the constraints placed on him, and his belief that science should be taught in a way that highlights its interconnectedness and cultural significance (Why Don't Things Fall Up?: and Six Other Science Lessons You Missed at School). He emphasizes the need for science to be accessible to everyone, as it allows humans to make sense of the world and share their understanding. Participants Alom Shaha was born in Bangladesh but grew up in London. A science teacher, writer, and filmmaker, he has spent most of his professional life sharing his passion for science and education with the public. Alom has produced, directed, and appeared in a number of television programs for broadcasters, such as the BBC, and has received fellowships from the National Endowment for Science, Technology, and the Arts (NESTA) and the Nuffield Foundation. Alom has represented his community as an elected politician and has volunteered at various charitable organizations. Follow Alom on Twitter @alomshaha and read more about him at www.alomshaha.com Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Teaching WalkThrus 2: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Teaching WalkThrus 3: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She founded ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners, Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the flexible working narrative for education, Simplicitus: The Interconnected Primary Curriculum & Effective Subject Leadership, and Simplicitus Altius: Leading the Interconnected Primary Curriculum. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On this episode of Mind the Gap, Caroline Derbyshire joins Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner to discuss the importance of creating a positive and supportive environment for educators. The trio discussed the importance of creating a culture of excellence in education, particularly in subject departments. They emphasized the significance of granting teachers the independence and assistance they need to enhance their professional development, ultimately improving the quality of education. To wrap up, Tom and Emma conveyed their gratitude to their audience and pledged to provide fresh and captivating content featuring exciting guests in the upcoming season. Episode Outline: (:01) Creating an Exceptional Comprehensive School (6:14) Cultivating a Culture of Excellence (13:10) Closing the Gap: Teacher Professional Development (19:35) Balancing Autonomy and Support in School Improvement (26:41) Challenges in Education Policy (33:42) Challenges in Education Funding and Support (47:11) The Importance of School Audits (53:24) End of Season Gratitude About the participants: Caroline Derbyshire is a respected figure in the education sector and the CEO of the Saffron Academy Trust, which includes 9 schools in Uttlesford and Braintree. She is also a National Leader of Education and chairs the Headteachers' Roundtable. Caroline is passionate about providing high-quality comprehensive education and promoting social justice. She is known for being willing to challenge education policy that impedes these goals. Follow Caroline on Twitter @Morsecat Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Teaching WalkThrus 2: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Teaching WalkThrus 3: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She is the founder of ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help to retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners, Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the flexible working narrative for education, Simplicitus: The Interconnected Primary Curriculum & Effective Subject Leadership, and Simplicitus Altius: Leading the Interconnected Primary Curriculum. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
On this episode of Mind the Gap, Tom Sherrington, and Emma Turner have the pleasure of being joined by Hywel Roberts, a highly accomplished author, educator, storyteller, and humorist. This episode provides a holistic perspective on how to create an effective learning environment in the classroom. The trio discussed the importance of enthusiasm, engagement, imagination, protection, storytelling, and agile education to make abstract concepts accessible and captivate students. They explored the use of warmth, humor, and storytelling to draw students in, the need for imagination pedagogy and protecting students in learning, and the empowering elements of storytelling and imagination in education. Lastly, the conversation highlighted the need to develop the ability to imagine processes and embrace agile education for a more innovative approach to teaching and learning. About the participants: Hywel Roberts has been a teacher for over thirty years. His reputation has grown hugely since he stepped out of the full-time classroom. Hywel has found an incredible and innovative niche in the world of model teaching, contributing to and advising curriculum designers and innovators from Barnsley to Brussels, from Cairo to Cleethorpes. Hywel leads the PGCE program in Drama at Huddersfield University and contributes to the Master's program in Drama and Creative Writing at Leeds Beckett University. Hywel is a regular contributor to conferences, including The Sunday Telegraph Festival of Education, Northern Rocks, Practical Pedagogies, and The University of Belfast Thinking Conference. Hywel is the author of Oops! Getting Children to Learn Accidentally and Uncharted Territories. He writes a regular column for the Times Educational Supplement about his encounters as a ‘traveling teacher' and a weekly show ‘Hywel's Teacher Stories' on Teacher Hug Radio. Hywel's number one Bestseller on Amazon, Botheredness was published this year. Hywel is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and a Fellow of the Charted College of Teaching. Follow Hywel on Twitter: @hywel_roberts Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Teaching WalkThrus 2: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Teaching WalkThrus 3: Five-step guides to instructional coaching, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She is the founder of ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help to retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners, Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the flexible working narrative for education, Simplicitus: The Interconnected Primary Curriculum & Effective Subject Leadership, and Simplicitus Altius: Leading the Interconnected Primary Curriculum. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
In this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom and Emma reflect on past guests and Emma's new book Simplicitus Altius: Leading the Interconnected Primary Curriculum. Tom and Emma discuss the lack of shock within the profession regarding the amount of stress people feel and how it potentially can lead to such tragedies is surprising. We must look at the high-stress system to make it more supportive and encourage leaders to improve. Our guests, emphasized the importance of finding the right match for a school, leading with passion, worth, and a deep sense of achievement. This episode also touched on the concept of multi novice status, recognizing that children arrive at secondary school with more proficiency in certain subjects, while still developing in others. It can be challenging to teach standalone subjects in primary school, especially with children still novice in multiple areas simultaneously. Thus, the primary curriculum should be taught in interconnected ways rather than as isolated subjects. Overall, this episode offers critiques, reflections, and insights into the education profession while providing resources for teachers and school leaders to improve their practice. About the participants: Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She is the founder of ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help to retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners, Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the flexible working narrative for education, and Simplicitus: The Interconnected Primary Curriculum & Effective Subject Leadership. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
In this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom and Emma are joined by Vic Goddard. The group discusses Vic's position in British Education, particularly his role as a leader and a role model for head teachers and school leadership across the UK. Vic's first foray into thought leadership was the BAFTA-nominated documentary series Educating Essex, a seven-part series following a group of GCSE students and the staff who teach them. Since then, Vic has continued as a thought leader in British education and provided opportunities for leadership connections. Overall this episode highlights the strengths of bold leadership. In this case, bold does not mean brash or dominative; it means empathetic and caring, and open to different perspectives. Particularly in education, as this conversation shows, boldness in leadership can help students, teachers, and a community thrive. About the participants: Vic Goddard is the Principal of Passmores Academy and star of the BAFTA-nominated Channel 4 documentary Educating Essex. He is a proud South Londoner, having been raised on a council estate, then going on to train as a PE teacher and eventually becoming the nation's best-loved Headmaster thanks to his undeniable dedication to his school and the young people inside it. Follow Vic on Twitter @vicgoddard Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She is the founder of ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help to retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners, Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the flexible working narrative for education, and Simplicitus: The Interconnected Primary Curriculum & Effective Subject Leadership. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75.Watch this episode on edCircuit. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
For this episode, special guest Jim Knight joins hosts Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner to discuss his research and experience in professional development. The conversation focuses on instructional coaching, teacher professional learning, and recent research to improve teaching and learning. In part one of this episode, the group discusses the differences between two of Jim's books: The Impact Cycle and Seven Factors for Success. As Jim explores, his most recent book, Seven Factors for Success, focuses on a much more broad context for becoming a successful professional learner in teaching. In the second part of the episode, the trio discusses the challenges, strategies, and realities of instructional coaches. Adaptation is a major key to making teachers better. Instructional coaches must understand factors like expertise, vocabulary, and background are essential to master effective coaching. Overall this episode highlights the multifaceted nature of professional development and instructional coaching. Jim's research-based frameworks are truly revolutionary, and by adopting them, schools can improve teaching and increase the successful outcomes of their students. About the participants: Jim Knight is a founding partner at Instructional Coaching Group (ICG) and a research associate at the University of Kansas Center for Research on Learning. He has spent more than two decades studying professional learning, effective teaching, and instructional coaching. Knight has written several books, most recently, The Definitive Guide to Instructional Coaching: Seven Factors for Success with John Catt Educational. His articles on instructional coaching have been included in publications such as The Journal of Staff Development, Principal Leadership, The School Administrator, and Teachers Teaching Teachers. Follow Jim on Twitter @jimknight99 Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She is the founder of ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help to retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners, Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the flexible working narrative for education, and Simplicitus: The Interconnected Primary Curriculum & Effective Subject Leadership. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. Watch this episode on edCircuit. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
For this episode, special guest Sufian Sadiq joins hosts Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner to discuss CPD, community engagement, and leadership in education. The conversation focuses on the interplay between meticulous planning and passionate engagement. It is clear throughout the conversation that Sufian has mastered the ability to engage and plan to make schools, communities, and learning thrive. In part one of this episode, the group discusses Sufian's role at the Chiltern Teaching School, primarily the CPD they provide and the community stewardship they take on in the communities they serve. In the second part of the episode, the trio discusses the true definition of community engagement, particularly understanding the community you serve. As Sufian explores, DEI is a significant part of his work. Often overlooked factors in those conversations include discussions of class and background. The episode closes by discussing the difference between knowledge acquisition and aspirational curriculum. Sufian explores that when given the right tools and resources, you can create learning environments for students to thrive. However, if you engage students and understand their backgrounds, you can begin to inspire them to broader long-term success. As Emma points out, adding an interpersonal approach to learning adds a sustainable element to every lesson. There may be days when a lesson doesn't particularly engage every student; however, when thinking and teaching aspirationally, you can connect with every student. About the participants: Sufian Sadiq is the Director of the Teaching School at Chiltern Learning Trust, responsible for overseeing two regional Hub areas in the South East of England. Chiltern Teaching Schools are one of the largest providers of CPD to the sector nationally. He is a passionate activist within the educational landscape around race, equity, and inclusion. Sufian is a Fellow and Board Member of the Chartered College of Teaching and a Chartered Institute of Educational Assessors Fellow. He plays an active role in numerous charitable organizations as a Trustee and holds key governance roles within educational organizations. Follow Sufian on Twitter @unleashing_me Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She is the founder of ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help to retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners, Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the flexible working narrative for education, and Simplicitus: The Interconnected Primary Curriculum & Effective Subject Leadership. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
For this episode, special guest Aisha Thomas joins hosts Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner to discuss representation. The conversation focuses on Aisha's diversity, equity, and inclusion work and expertise in training educators to increase representation, develop inclusive curriculum, and create a framework for anti-racism/anti-prejudice environments. In part one of the episode, Aisha explores how she came to her ideas on why representation matters through stories of her lived experiences, exercises, and pedagogy surrounding DEI. In the second part of the episode, the trio discusses addressing identity in the classroom. This part of the discussion focuses on what students and teachers take into the classroom. Aisha discusses how curriculum, classroom practices, and student engagement can make a difference in students' value of themselves and their education. About the participants: Aisha Thomas is a teacher, author, speaker, and leader. In September 2016, Aisha became an Assistant Principal at an inner-city secondary school in Bristol. She is also an educational activist specializing in race and anti-racist practice. She founded Representation Matters, an organization dedicated to challenging the lack of representation and inequality in schools. Aisha is the author of Representation Matters: Becoming an anti-racist educator. Follow Aisha on Twitter @itsaishathomas. Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She is the founder of ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help to retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners, Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the flexible working narrative for education, and Simplicitus: The Interconnected Primary Curriculum & Effective Subject Leadership. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
For this episode, special guest Sarah Cottingham joins Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner to discuss Sarah's work and expertise in recent research, learning design, retrieval practice, neuroscience, learning schema, and professional development. The conversation begins by exploring Sarah's explosion onto the educational scene, her beginnings as a teacher, trying different strategies to enhance student learning, her movement into neuroscience, and her work with the Ambition Institute. A primary focus of this conversation is Sarah's framework for neuroscience and learning which connects cutting-edge research with classroom realism. In the second part of the episode, the trio discusses student learning, existing knowledge, teaching strategies, and professional development. The episode closes with a discussion on the necessity of time to explore topics. As Sarah explores, self-explanation is essential, and there are hundreds of similar strategies in which you are rehearsing the connection between new content and existing knowledge. Sarah is truly a wealth of neuroscience, learning, and teaching knowledge. About the participants: Sarah Cottingham is a former English educator, researcher, writer, and author. She works as the Associate Dean of Learning Design for the Ambition Institute and is a professional development consultant. She runs the Overpracticed Blog, focusing on memory, retrieval practice, and learning design. She has an ‘In Action' book with John Catt Educational in production that will be published in 2023. Follow Sarah on Twitter: @overpractised Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She is the founder of ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help to retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners, Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the flexible working narrative for education. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
For this episode, special guest Dylan Wiliam joins hosts Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner to discuss good teaching practices, theories of student learning, and implementation. The conversation begins by exploring the concept of “good teaching.” The trio discusses differentiating good teaching from successful teaching, student engagement, humility, successful teaching strategies, research on the value added of good teaching, and the quality of different assessments. In the second part of the episode, the trio discusses the background of effective learning. A primary focus of this discussion is understanding the purpose of data and the importance of cognitive load theory. A key insight in this conversation is tackling the disparate learning skills of students and how understanding the factors of learning can increase student achievement. The episode closes with a discussion on Dylan's upcoming book, Making Room for Impact: The 9p Deimplementation Guide for Educators, which will publish later this year. The book focuses on how implementation makes way for great teaching and learning. About the participants: Dylan Wiliam is an emeritus professor of educational assessment at the UCL Institute of Education. Dylan's research and authorship focus on the professional development of teachers. His book, Inside the Black Box, is a seminal work on formative assessment. He has served in various leadership roles in the UK and has written numerous books, articles, and academic papers on development, assessment, and teaching. His most recent book Making Room for Impact: The 9p Deimplementation Guide for Educators, is expected to publish this year. Follow Dylan on Twitter @dylanwiliam Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She is the founder of ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help to retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
For this episode, special guest Efrat Furst joins hosts Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner to discuss useful learning from a neuroscience perspective. The conversation begins by exploring Efrat's work at the Mofet Institute- a national institute in Israel that provides teacher training and research for teacher colleges. Efrat's work at the Mofet Institute builds off her previous work at The Teaching and Learning Center at the University of Jerusalem. Efrat's specialty is working with educators to teach the science of learning, utilizing her neuroscience background to create change in college, primary, and secondary classrooms. In the second part of the episode, the trio discusses retrieval, effective teaching strategies, and useful learning. A major focus is making the most of learning moments. Efrat points out that the key to creating useful learning in the classroom is figuring out how students learn and building learning habits to ensure they can process, retrieve, and reconcile information. About the participants: Efrat Furst is a cognitive-neuroscientific researcher focusing on human learning and memory. Efrat's expertise bridges the sciences of learning with teaching and learning in classrooms. Follow Efrat on Twitter @EfratFurst Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She is the founder of ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help to retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners, Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the flexible working narrative for education, and Simplicitus: The Interconnected Primary Curriculum & Effective Subject Leadership. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75. Watch this episode of Mind The Gap on edCircuit. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindthegap-edu/message
For this episode, special guests Richard Selfridge and James Pembroke join hosts Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner to discuss the effective uses of data. The conversation begins by exploring the context for much of the data practices and initiatives. The beginning of the episode focuses on what Richard and James have seen in the past and how schools & governing bodies have taken the lessons of the past to create the systems in play across education in the UK today. Some topics include the data wave, challenging assumptions, data efficiency, and levels-based data. About the participants: Richard Selfridge is a primary school teacher and writer on education. He has written on education for several publications and has been a speaker at events across the UK. His books Databusting for Schools and Dataproof Your School (co-authored with James Pembroke) look at the purpose and uses of data in education. Follow Richard on Twitter @Databusting. James Pembroke is an independent Data Analyst and Advisor with 14 years of experience in primary, secondary, and post-16 sectors. James is the co-author of Dataproof Your School. He currently works with both Insight Tracking and Sig+, working through educational data and trends. Follow James on Twitter @jpembroke. Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She is the founder of ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers', a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help to retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mindthegap-edu/message
As a special wrap-up of 2022, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner reflect back on 2022 and celebrate an excellent year of Mind The Gap! Instead of their normal education ‘sparring session,' Tom and Emma took this opportunity to discuss the topics, resources, and people that made an impression on them this year. Tom's discoveries focus on events, conferences, blogs, and individuals. Emma's resources primarily focus on books and reading lists for teachers and use in the primary classroom. This conversation highlights issues, questions, and various debates across education in 2022 and the people leading the charge to a brighter future in education. We look forward to more guests and thoughtful education discussions in 2023! About the participants: Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She is the founder of ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers,' a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help to retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners, Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the flexible working narrative for education, and Simplicitus: The Interconnected Primary Curriculum & Effective Subject Leadership. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75 To watch the video of this episode and get links to all of the resources mentioned, visit edcircuit.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mindthegap-edu/message
Special guest Jamie Thom joins hosts Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner to discuss slow teaching strategies, supporting teachers and the profession of teaching, and bringing joy to the classroom. The conversation begins by exploring supporting teachers and how to attract extremely talented individuals into the profession. Jamie's focus on joy in the classroom brings out some key insights into the roles of the teacher and how to best support the expansion of the teaching profession. About the participants: Jamie Thom has taught English and worked in leadership positions in schools across the UK. He is the host of both the TES English teacher podcast and The Well Teacher podcast and writes regularly for TES and a range of other publications. He is the author of Slow Teaching and, most recently, A Quiet Education. Follow Jamie @teachgratitude1. Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She is the founder of ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers', a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help to retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners, Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the flexible working narrative for education, and Simplicitus: The Interconnected Primary Curriculum & Effective Subject Leadership. Follow Emma @emma_turner75 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mindthegap-edu/message
For this episode, special guest Amarbeer Singh Gill joins hosts Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner to discuss Singh's new book and the newest book in the ‘In Action' series for JohnCatt Educational, Dunlosky's Strengthening the Student Toolbox in Action. Visit edCircuit.com to watch this episode. The conversation begins by exploring Dunlosky's theories of learning and their applicability to the foundations of learning. Although education theory can be weighted and often quite academic, Singh focuses on the practical perspective of Dunlosky's theory, contextualizing the work with effective strategies and a well-rounded framework for teachers. Amarbeer Singh Gill is a lead practitioner of secondary maths and a teacher educator. Amarbeer has written blogs for the Education Endowment Foundation's research schools and worked with teachers and school leaders to help think about how to make even more teachers evidence-informed, always with the goal to keep getting better outcomes for the students they work with. His book, Dunlosky's Strengthening the Student Toolbox in Action, was published with JohnCatt Educational this year. Follow Amarbeer @InspiredLearn_ Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She is the founder of ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers', a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help to retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners, Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the flexible working narrative for education, and Simplicitus: The Interconnected Primary Curriculum & Effective Subject Leadership Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mindthegap-edu/message
Special guest Becky Allen joins hosts Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner to discuss teaching, learning, and constructs of instruction from an academic perspective. The conversation begins by exploring the large questions of education that Becky has a unique perspective on as an academic and in her role at Teacher Tapp. Becky specializes in the complexities and evidence-based understanding of large issues like curriculum, teacher training, parent communication, teacher feedback, student psychology, and more. Visit edCircuit.com to watch this episode. In the second part of the episode, the trio discusses breaking down the assumptions of education and the roots of disagreements on curriculum. The data behind this discussion primarily comes from Becky's experience with Teacher Tapp, and her strong resolve to rectify misconceptions goes hand in hand with her everyday work with surveying teachers. Participants: Becky Allen is a Co-founder and Chief Analyst of Teacher Tapp. In addition to her entrepreneurship, she is a professor of education at Brighton University and an author of several books, including The Teacher Gap and The Next Big Thing in School Improvement. Follow Becky @profbeckyallen Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. He regularly contributes to conferences and CPD sessions locally and nationally and is busy working in schools and colleges across the UK and around the world. Follow Tom @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She is the founder of ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers', a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help to retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners, Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the flexible working narrative for education, Follow Emma @emma_turner75 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mindthegap-edu/message
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