Simon, a former teacher, shares his journey of leaving the education system to start his own business. He discusses the challenges he faced in balancing his career and family life, and how he ultimately made the decision to prioritize his family. Simon emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's own value and skills, and finding a career that aligns with one's passions and strengths.

He encourages listeners to think about what they want to be remembered for and make the necessary changes to live a fulfilling life. Simon also highlights the misconceptions about teaching and the need for more awareness of the skills and dedication required in the profession.

Takeaways

• Recognise your own value and skills, and find a career that aligns with your passions and strengths.
• Consider what you want to be remembered for and make the necessary changes to live a fulfilling life.
• Teaching is often misunderstood, and it is important to raise awareness of the skills and dedication required in the profession.
• Balancing a career and family life can be challenging, and it is important to prioritize personal well-being and relationships.

In this episode, Martin and Poppy discuss strategies for teachers to protect their mental and physical health as they go back to school. They emphasize the importance of setting boundaries, counting hours, and planning out the week to achieve a better work-life balance. They also suggest having a hobby or activity outside of teaching to look forward to and prioritize self-care. The hosts share personal experiences and practical tips for managing workload and avoiding burnout.

Takeaways

• Set boundaries and plan out your week to achieve a better work-life balance
• Count your hours to ensure you're not overworking
• Have a hobby or activity outside of teaching to look forward to
• Prioritize self-care and take breaks when needed
• Manage your workload and avoid burnout by saying no to additional tasks

Becky shares her journey from grief to finding solace in crafting and creativity. She emphasizes the importance of creativity for mental well-being and how it provides an outlet for expressing emotions.

Crafting can reduce stress and anxiety, improve fine motor skills, and serve as a distraction from chronic pain. Becky encourages embracing the process of creating and learning from mistakes.

She suggests starting with simple crafts and finding inspiration from platforms like Pinterest and Instagram. Becky also highlights the social aspect of crafting, bringing people together and creating a sense of community.

Takeaways

• Crafting and creativity can provide an outlet for expressing emotions and contribute to mental well-being.
• Engaging in crafts can reduce stress and anxiety and improve fine motor skills.
• Embrace the process of creating and learn from mistakes.
• Start with simple crafts and find inspiration from platforms like Pinterest and Instagram.
• Crafting can bring people together and create a sense of community.

In this episode, Martin and Poppy interview Melanie Grabowski, a teacher and researcher, about her career journey and her work on anxiety-based school absence in autistic children.

Melanie shares her experience working with children in gymnastics clubs and Montessori schools before transitioning to mainstream classrooms and eventually homeschooling her own children.

She discusses her research on anxiety-based school absence and the importance of listening to and validating the experiences of parents and children.

Melanie offers advice for schools and educators on supporting children with autism and emphasizes the need for a more inclusive and individualized approach to education.

Takeaways

• Melanie's career journey includes working in gymnastics clubs, Montessori schools, mainstream classrooms, and homeschooling.
• Her research focuses on anxiety-based school absence in autistic children and the factors that contribute to school distress.
• Listening to and validating the experiences of parents and children is crucial in supporting children with autism.
• Schools and educators can create a more inclusive and individualized learning environment by considering the unique needs of each child.
• Homeschooling can be a beneficial option for children who struggle in mainstream schools, but it also comes with its own challenges.

In this episode, Martin and Poppy interview Nick Huxley, a teacher with a unique career journey. Nick shares his experiences transitioning from a successful career in telecoms to becoming a teacher.

He talks about his time in university, his travels, and his decision to become a stay-at-home parent before entering the teaching profession. Nick also discusses some of the highlights of his teaching career, including memorable moments with his students and the joy of sparking their curiosity.

He emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and managing one's energy as a teacher. In this conversation, Nick Huxley shares his experiences as a teacher and offers advice for managing stress and maintaining work-life balance. He emphasizes the importance of flexibility, humor, and setting boundaries with emails.

Nick also encourages listeners to believe in themselves and not let others define their capabilities. The conversation covers topics such as dealing with the stress of inspections, finding ways to relax and recharge, and the impact of humor in the classroom.

Takeaways

• Teaching can be a fulfilling career choice at any stage of life, and previous work experience can bring valuable skills and perspectives to the classroom.
• Creating memorable moments and sparking curiosity in students can be some of the most rewarding aspects of teaching.
• Setting boundaries and managing one's energy are crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance as a teacher.
• Flexibility and adaptability are key qualities for teachers, as they often need to switch between different year groups and subjects. Flexibility is key in managing the stress of teaching and dealing with unexpected challenges.
• Humor can be a powerful tool for building relationships with students and relieving stress.
• Setting boundaries with emails and not checking them outside of school hours can help maintain work-life balance.
• Believe in yourself and don't let others define your capabilities.
• Finding ways to relax and recharge outside of work is essential for overall well-being.

Paul Burrows shares his career journey as a teacher and headteacher, highlighting the importance of taking risks and sticking with it. He emphasizes the emotional aspects of teaching and the impact of difficult conversations with staff.

Paul also discusses the joy of seeing students succeed on results days and the satisfaction of being a headteacher. He shares his love for tea, his sarcastic sense of humor, and the importance of walking around the school to connect with students.

Paul encourages teachers to persevere through tough times and build relationships with students.

Takeaways

• Take risks and be courageous in your career journey
• Difficult conversations with staff are tough but necessary
• Results days are rewarding and memorable
• Being a headteacher is a unique and fulfilling experience
• Tea, sarcasm, and connecting with students are important for getting through the week
• Stick with teaching and build relationships with students

Kelsie shares her journey from studying primary education to pursuing a career in teaching. She discusses her passion for teaching and her excitement about starting her teacher training in September.

Kelsie also talks about her aspirations beyond teaching, including pursuing a master's degree in educational leadership and management and potentially writing books on teacher CPD and mental health.

She offers advice for students considering a degree in education, emphasizing the importance of asking questions, taking advantage of opportunities, and maintaining a work-life balance.

Takeaways

• Passion for teaching and a desire to make a positive impact on students' lives are key motivators for pursuing a career in education.
• Teacher training programs vary in structure and duration, but it is important to find a program that offers support and allows for gradual integration into the classroom.
• Teaching is not limited to the classroom, and there are opportunities for career growth and exploration in areas such as educational leadership, writing, and lecturing.
• Maintaining a work-life balance and prioritizing self-care are crucial for success and well-being as a teacher.
• Asking questions, attending guest lectures, and taking advantage of all available opportunities can enhance learning and provide valuable insights into the teaching profession.

Amber shares her journey from A-levels to completing her PGCE and her plans for the future. She discusses the challenges she faced during her PGCE, including workload and imposter syndrome. Amber emphasizes the importance of work-life balance and following your dreams.

She also shares her interests in curriculum coordination, dyscalculia, EAL, and mentoring. Amber's advice is to trust your gut, believe in yourself, and pursue your dreams.

Takeaways

• Follow your dreams and trust your gut
• Maintain a work-life balance
• Embrace challenges and learn from them
• Consider pursuing additional qualifications and specializations
• Connect with a support network
• Believe in yourself and your abilities

In this episode, Martin and Poppy interview Nigel Rowe, a school governor with 35 years of experience.

They discuss Nigel's journey as a governor, the role and responsibilities of a school governor, the challenges they face, and the rewards of being a governor. Nigel emphasizes the importance of governors being a supporting friend to the school and teachers, bringing their expertise to the table, and working together as a team.

He also highlights the inconsistency of school inspections and the changing parental behavior as major challenges for governors.

Nigel encourages anyone interested in becoming a school governor to go for it and emphasizes the need for commitment and support for the head teacher.

Takeaways

• Being a school governor is a rewarding role that requires commitment and support for the head teacher.
• Governors should bring their expertise to the table and work together as a team with the school staff.
• The inconsistency of school inspections and changing parental behavior are major challenges for governors.
• School governors should be a supporting friend to the school and teachers, providing assistance and guidance.
• Anyone interested in becoming a school governor should go for it and be prepared for a minimum commitment of four years.

he started her career at the school she attended as a student and eventually became the head of the drama department. She also talks about the merger of two schools and the experience of bringing different students and staff together.

Emma shares a favorite memory of her wedding, where past pupils she had taught came to sing in the choir. Overall, her story highlights the importance of connections with students and the impact teachers can have on their lives.

Takeaways

• Teaching can be a lifelong career that brings fulfilment and challenges.
• Merging schools can be a complex process, but it can also create opportunities for growth and collaboration.
• Teachers can have a lasting impact on their students' lives, forming connections that can last for years.
• Favourite memories in teaching often involve moments of connection and celebration.

Shazad Ali shares his career journey in education, from volunteering to becoming a lead practitioner for behavior and setting up alternative education provisions. He emphasizes the importance of creating a sense of belonging for students and parents, and the need for trauma-informed approaches in education.

Shazad also discusses the referral process for alternative provisions and the importance of collaboration between staff, parents, and students. He encourages educators to never give up on showing acts of kindness and support to students, as it can have a long-lasting impact.

Takeaways

• Create a sense of belonging for students and parents in education.
• Implement trauma-informed approaches to support students' well-being and learning.
• Collaborate with staff, parents, and students to ensure the success of alternative education provisions.
• Never give up on showing acts of kindness and support to students, as it can have a long-lasting impact.

In this episode, Martin and Poppy interview Nathan, an education consultant and expert in metacognition. They discuss the importance of metacognition in education and how it can be integrated into the curriculum.

They also touch on the future of education and the challenges it faces, such as teacher shortages and overcrowded curricula. Nathan emphasizes the need for explicit teaching of metacognitive skills and the importance of individualized approaches to learning.

The conversation also delves into the debate around school trips and the role they play in education. Overall, the episode highlights the passion and dedication of educators and the potential for positive change in the field.

Takeaways

• Metacognition is the process of planning, monitoring, and evaluating one's own thinking and learning.
• Explicit teaching of metacognitive skills is essential in helping students become more effective learners.
• The future of education should focus on individualized approaches to learning and addressing the challenges of teacher shortages and overcrowded curricula.
• School trips can be valuable learning experiences, but it's important to consider individual student needs and behavior when planning them.
• Passionate and dedicated educators are key to driving positive change in education.

The conversation explores the concept of manifestation and the law of attraction, emphasizing the impact of positive thoughts and energy on life outcomes. It delves into personal experiences, career choices, and the importance of being true to oneself. The discussion also touches on the unpredictability of life and the significance of being open to change and new opportunities.

Takeaways

• Positive thoughts and energy can influence life outcomes.
• Being true to oneself and pursuing personal goals is essential for a fulfilling life.
• Embracing change and being open to new opportunities is crucial for personal growth and development.

The episode features Krissi Carter, the founder of Thinking Spot Coaching, who shares her journey from being a head teacher to facing a mental health crisis and finding resilience. She emphasizes the importance of mental fitness and offers valuable advice for teachers and individuals struggling with mental health. The conversation delves into the challenges of teaching, the impact of mental health, and the power of resilience.

Takeaways

• The importance of mental fitness and its impact on overall well-being
• The challenges faced by teachers and the impact on mental health
• The power of resilience and the journey from crisis to recovery
• The need for support and resources for teacher well-being
• The value of positive practices such as journaling, meditation, and mindfulness

The conversation revolves around health and fitness for teachers, focusing on mental and physical well-being. It covers topics such as diet, exercise, sleep, and sustainable lifestyle changes.

The hosts discuss extreme diets and the importance of balance and consistency in health and fitness routines. The conversation covers various dieting approaches and their impact on mindset, health, and fitness. It delves into the complexities of tracking food, the pitfalls of extreme dieting, and the importance of balance and moderation.

The discussion also touches on the influence of social media on health and fitness perceptions, the significance of healthy habits, and the role of sleep in overall well-being.

Takeaways

• Teachers often struggle with health and fitness due to the nature of their work and the pressure of half-term deadlines.
• Sustainable lifestyle changes, balance, and consistency are key to achieving and maintaining good health and fitness.
• The importance of sleep, movement, and calorie management in achieving health and fitness goals.
• Extreme diets may not be sustainable or healthy in the long term, and a balanced approach is more effective.
• Focusing on healing the relationship with one's body and making gradual, sustainable changes leads to long-term success in health and fitness. Tracking food can be tedious at first, but it becomes easier with time and practice.
• Extreme dieting can lead to a binge culture and an all-or-nothing mindset.
• The influence of social media on health and fitness perceptions can be misleading and unrealistic.
• Healthy habits, including sleep, hydration, and balanced nutrition, are essential for overall well-being.

Sam also talks about his experience on CBBC's Pet School and the positive impact of social media in supporting and championing the teaching profession.

Takeaways

• Finding the right school for you is crucial for a fulfilling teaching career.
• Collaboration and observation are powerful tools for professional growth.
• Prioritising work-life balance is essential for mental and physical well-being.
• Social media can be a supportive platform for teachers and a way to champion the teaching profession.

He discusses the challenges and rewards of being a school principal and the impact he has on his students. Robbie also shares his favorite memory of seeing the smiling faces of students returning to school after the COVID-19 pandemic and the hardest moment of breaking the news to a class that he would be leaving. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of building connections with students and the role of educators in shaping their lives.

In this conversation, Robbie O'Connell, a primary school principal, shares his insights on leadership and well-being in the education sector. He discusses the importance of taking breaks, using a diary for organization, and maintaining a reflection journal. Robbie emphasizes the need for perspective and prioritizing time in order to manage the stress and demands of the job.

He also highlights the significance of setting a positive example for staff and prioritizing family time. Overall, Robbie's advice centers around maintaining balance and well-being in both personal and professional life.

Takeaways

• Robbie O'Connell started his career in social work before transitioning into teaching and becoming a school principal.
• As a school principal, Robbie emphasizes the importance of building connections with students and being present in their lives.
• The impact of educators goes beyond academics and can greatly influence the well-being and happiness of students.
• Robbie's favorite memory is seeing the smiling faces of students returning to school after the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Breaking the news to a class that he would be leaving was one of the hardest moments for Robbie, highlighting the strong bond between teachers and their students. Take breaks and prioritize self-care to manage the demands of a leadership role
• Use a diary for organization and reflection journal for positive mindset
• Maintain perspective and prioritize time to manage stress
• Set a positive example for staff and prioritize family time

In this episode, Martin and Poppy interview Poppy, a reception teacher with pink hair. Poppy shares her journey into teaching and the challenges she faced during her NQT year.  She emphasises the importance of finding a supportive network of friends and seeking advice from experienced teachers.

Poppy also talks about her role as the farm lead at her school and the joy she finds in interacting with the animals. Her advice to listeners is to have a diverse group of friends and to be open to different perspectives.

Takeaways

• Find a supportive network of friends who can provide advice and different perspectives.
• Seek help and advice from experienced teachers when facing challenges.
• Embrace diverse friendships and learn from people in different stages of life.
• Find joy in your work and take time for self-care.
• Create a positive and supportive environment for yourself and your students.

In this episode, Martin and Poppy discuss finding the right environment to work in and how to handle job applications and rejections. They share their personal experiences and offer advice on navigating the teacher transfer window and applying for jobs in general. They emphasize the importance of finding the right fit and being open to new opportunities.

They also discuss the challenges of job interviews and share some unconventional interview experiences. In this conversation, Martin and Poppy discuss their experiences with job interviews in the teaching profession.

They share tips and insights on how to prepare for interviews, including researching the school, asking questions, and being authentic. They also discuss the importance of not getting discouraged by rejections and seeing each interview as a learning opportunity. The conversation concludes with a reminder to value oneself and to keep persevering in the job search.

Takeaways

• Take the time to find the right environment and school to work in
• Be open to new opportunities and don't be afraid to make a change
• Handling job rejections is part of the process, and it's important to remember that it may not be the right fit for you
• Job interviews can be unconventional and challenging, but it's important to stay true to yourself and your teaching style Research the school before the interview
• Be authentic and show your true self
• Don't get discouraged by rejections
• See each interview as a learning opportunity
• Value yourself and your worth
• Keep persevering in the job search

In this episode, Martin and Poppy interview Jordan Firth, a primary school teacher and creator of humorous teaching videos. They discuss Jordan's career journey, his favorite and hardest moments in teaching, and the importance of humor in the classroom. Jordan shares three things he can't live without: moments of reflection, sarcasm, and his gym workouts. He also offers the advice to not take teaching too seriously and to find humor in the everyday challenges.

Takeaways

• Teaching can be challenging, but finding humour in the everyday challenges can make it more bearable.
• Taking moments to reflect and have a laugh can help protect your mental health and well-being as a teacher.
• Finding activities or hobbies outside of teaching, like going to the gym, can provide a much-needed break and help you recharge.
• Don't take teaching too seriously. Remember to have fun and find joy in the classroom.
• Humour can humanise you as a teacher and create a positive and engaging learning environment for your students.

Takeaways

• Finding one's purpose and passion in life is essential for mental and physical well-being.
• Reading can be a great form of escapism and self-actualization.
• As educators, it's important to remember our why and reconnect with our passion.
• Excitement and passion are key factors in coming alive and finding fulfillment.
• Being true to oneself and embracing authenticity is a strength.
• Problem-solving skills and finding alternative ways to do things can lead to greater satisfaction.
• Taking risks and trying new things can be both a strength and a weakness.
• Connecting with others and learning from different perspectives can enhance personal growth. Finding what serves you and what you want in life is key to a fulfilling career.
• Building relationships and supporting others adds value to your work.
• Coaching and mentoring can make a difference in people's lives.
• Measuring your life by the freedom and happiness you experience is important.
• Living without regrets and making choices that align with your values leads to a fulfilling life.

Takeaways

• One in four teachers drinks to cope with the job, and 12% of teachers are on antidepressants.
• Teachers need to find healthy coping strategies to manage the stress of the job.
• Coping strategies can include voice noting to friends, taking time for oneself, and engaging in activities that bring joy.
• Schools should prioritize teacher well-being and support teachers in setting boundaries and practicing self-care. Question whether reaching for alcohol is really what you want and consider healthier alternatives for coping with stress and negative emotions.
• Find joy in activities that don't involve alcohol, such as spending time outdoors, practicing meditation, or connecting with others.
• Focus on the positive aspects of teaching and share the good moments with others.
• Make conscious choices and be aware of the reasons behind your alcohol consumption.
• Talk and share experiences with others to find support and new strategies for coping with challenges.

Takeaways

• Finding time for fitness and establishing a routine is crucial for overall well-being.
• Taking breaks during the day and setting boundaries can help prevent burnout.
• Creating a to-do list that includes self-care activities can help prioritize personal well-being.
• Getting to know oneself and making changes to routines can lead to a more joyful and fulfilling life.

Takeaways

• Be authentic and seek support from others.
• Balance professionalism and personal expression on social media.
• Create positive routines and switch up routines to reduce anxiety.
• Gain perspective and offer advice to others.
• Find joy in everyday life and take control of your well-being.

Takeaways

• Setting boundaries and saying no is crucial for protecting mental and physical health in the teaching profession.
• The fear of what others will think and the pressure to go above and beyond often prevent teachers from setting boundaries.
• Using strategies like checking the school diary and taking time before making a decision can help teachers say no effectively.
• Teachers should seek out opportunities that serve them and align with their career goals and personal enjoyment.

Takeaways

• Consider the benefits and challenges of different teaching degree programs before making a decision.
• Reflect on your experiences during placements to determine if teaching is the right career path for you.
• Be cautious of red flags in school environments, such as high staff turnover and negative leadership.
• Maintain a focus on your own well-being and mental health throughout your teaching journey. Maintaining boundaries and prioritizing self-care are crucial for teachers to avoid burnout.
• Effective communication with school leadership is essential for managing workload and addressing concerns.
• Teachers have the power to make choices and explore different school environments to find the right fit.
• Utilizing unions can provide support and protection for teachers in challenging situations.
• Empowering teachers to make positive changes in their careers can lead to personal growth and fulfillment.

Takeaways

• Teaching can be a rewarding career for those who have a passion for connecting with people and a curiosity for learning.
• Teacher training programs and university experiences can vary, and it's important to find a program that aligns with your values and interests.
• Changing schools and roles within the education field can provide opportunities for growth and learning, but it's important to find a supportive and inclusive environment.
• Transitioning from teaching to other career paths, such as becoming a university lecturer, can offer new challenges and opportunities for personal and professional development.
• Maintaining a work-life balance and finding fulfillment in your career are important considerations when deciding whether to continue teaching or explore other options. Teaching older adults can be incredibly empowering and rewarding.
• Transitioning from primary school teaching to higher education can provide new challenges and opportunities.
• Supporting students' mental health is a crucial aspect of teaching adults.
• Being oneself and finding the right teaching environment are key to being a successful teacher.

Takeaways

• Teaching is a profession that requires attention to both physical and mental health, as they are interconnected.
• Teachers often face immense pressures and challenges, leading to burnout and a sense of losing oneself.
• The education system often exploits teachers by expecting them to take on additional responsibilities without proper compensation.
• Teachers struggle to prioritize self-care due to the demands of their profession and the difficulty of setting boundaries.
• There is a need for greater support and resources to address the high levels of stress and mental health issues among teachers. The teaching profession often demands teachers to show up and give more of themselves, leading to constant burnout.
• Catch-up sleep can be a coping mechanism for teachers, but it is not sustainable in the long run.
• Setting boundaries and learning to say no are crucial for managing workload and protecting mental health.
• Using a diary to plan and prioritize tasks can help teachers establish boundaries and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Creating habits and routines that prioritize self-care is essential for preventing burnout and maintaining passion in teaching.