Are one-to-one teaching assistants really the best way to support students with SEMH needs? In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we explore the myth of 1:1 support and its unintended consequences for schools and students. Discover why this topic resonates with teachers and SENCOs working to support pupils with a high level of need and how rethinking your approach could empower independence and resilience in a more sustainable way. Important links: CHECK OUT BEHAVIOUR 360 today if you wan...
Dec 09, 2024•25 min•Season 1Ep. 245
Should bullying be viewed as trauma? In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we speak with guests Paula Timms and Nathalie Noret from Kidscape about groundbreaking research on the lasting impact caused by bullying. Discover how trauma-informed practices can transform how schools support students, reduce harm, and challenge misconceptions about bullying. Tune in for practical strategies every teacher, school leader, and parent needs to know. Important links: Explore Kidscape’s resources and ...
Dec 02, 2024•41 min•Season 1Ep. 244
Are you struggling with behaviour in your school or feeling a disconnect between staff and students? Then this episode is for you! Join us as we sit down with guest Stephen Steinhaus to unpack how relational behaviour policies, with a focus on relationships – not just rules - can raise standards, improve behaviour, and transform teaching in your school. Important links: Get our FREE Classroom Management Scoresheet HERE! Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send...
Nov 25, 2024•45 min•Season 1Ep. 243
Educational psychologists play a vital role in supporting students’ special educational needs and mental health. Yet, a recent British Psychological Society report reveals that many EPs feel the SEND system is broken and unable to meet students' needs. Join this week’s School Behaviour Secrets as we join Dr. Gavin Morgan to discuss how funding cuts, high caseloads, and a shortage of educational psychologists are impacting our vulnerable students, and what needs to be done to ensure every child h...
Nov 18, 2024•35 min•Season 1Ep. 242
What if neurodivergent students' behaviours were actually signals of physical pain? In this thought-provoking episode, Jane Green, MBE, a passionate advocate for neurodivergent individuals, explains the surprising connection between physical pain and neurodivergence in young people. Jane explains how physical symptoms, like fatigue and chronic pain, can impact classroom behaviour, performance and attendance, and urges educators to consider these unseen factors when supporting neurodivergent stud...
Nov 11, 2024•36 min
Looking for ways to support neurodivergent pupils? Do you want to inspire change in schools for a brighter future? In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we interview Melissa Leggett, founder of the Neuro Ambassadors' programme. Discover how this groundbreaking initiative is supporting neurodivergent pupils, helping them flourish, and fostering acceptance in schools. Important links: Visit the Neuro Inclusion Website UK here! Connect with Melissa through Instagram Or on Facebook! Get our F...
Nov 04, 2024•37 min•Season 1Ep. 240
Are you struggling with a class that feels completely out of control? Is this making you feel stressed? It can be easy to feel like classroom behaviour problems are happening 'to' you, and there's little you can do to make an impact... So, in this week's episode of School Behaviour Secrets we share a simple change in mindset that can help you take back control, get unstuck, and making progress with your students again. Join us to discover how taking small, intentional actions can lead to big imp...
Oct 28, 2024•14 min•Season 1Ep. 239
What's the real cost of bullying on a child's health? In this week's episode, we talk to Jessica Fraser about the powerful link between emotional trauma and brain health. Together, we explore how this understanding can transform the way schools approach bullying, offering fresh strategies to protect children and support their emotional and physical development. Important links: Click here to hear all of episode 85 Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handb...
Oct 22, 2024•12 min•Season 1Ep. 238
Are you struggling with a tough class? Feeling overwhelmed as a result? Join us and guest expert Jessica Werner, as we share practical strategies for turning around difficult classrooms, managing stress, and building strong relationships with challenging students. Learn essential tips for helping teachers thrive under pressure and regain control. Important links: Visit the Northshore Learning website here. Or send Jessica a quick email at: jess.northshore@gmail.com Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Ha...
Oct 20, 2024•38 min•Season 1Ep. 237
Are you working with a chatty class? Are you finding the noise overwhelming and feeling frustrated that valuable learning time is being lost? In this week's episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we'll share some of our top tips for managing talkative classes, without squashing their enthusiasm for learning! Important links: Click here to hear all of episode 80 Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook Download other FREE behaviour resources for use in s...
Oct 15, 2024•12 min•Season 1Ep. 236
Do you feel that your role in education is taking a toll on your mental health? In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we discuss burnout and the crucial importance of self-care for educators. Join us as we talk to Kate Whittlesey about effective strategies for teachers and school leaders to prioritise their well-being and stay at the top of their game. Important links: Visit the SEND Advisory Team website for advice and information. Here's one link to find out more about the Circles of In...
Oct 13, 2024•35 min•Season 1Ep. 235
Whilst every pupil's needs are unique, there's one key mindset shift that can enhance your de-escalation skills. In this week's episode, we uncover this mindset shift and show you how to apply it when handling student meltdowns or anger outbursts. You'll learn how to reduce distress, minimize disruption to classroom learning and feel in control. Important links: Click here to hear all of episode 57 Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook Download oth...
Oct 08, 2024•12 min•Season 1Ep. 234
Do you suspect a student might be at risk of criminal exploitation? Have you noticed changes in a student's behaviour or peer group? Recognising the signs early is crucial to making a positive impact... Join us for our latest podcast episode as we discuss the urgent issue of youth violence and gang involvement. Hear insights from Desmond Skyers and Steve Warner of St Giles Trust on how educators can make a difference. Important links: Visit the St Giles SOS+ Service Website if you need advice. U...
Oct 06, 2024•55 min•Season 1Ep. 233
Are you using, or thinking about introducing, restorative practice in your school? When done right, it teaches conflict resolution and encourages positive behaviour. But if not introduced effectively, it can erode trust. Discover our top tips for success! Important links: Click here to hear all of episode 55 Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook Download other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources.p...
Oct 01, 2024•12 min•Season 1Ep. 232
In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we explore the rise in suspensions and permanent exclusions, revealing the most common causes. Learn proactive strategies to reduce exclusions and download our free Exclusions Checklist for practical, needs-led behaviour support. Let's create more inclusive schools! Important links: To download our FREE Reducing Exclusion Checklist. Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook Download other FREE behaviour reso...
Sep 29, 2024•16 min•Season 1Ep. 231
There's been a concerning rise in children facing SEMH challenges in schools. So, how can teachers and educators effectively empathize with these students and build trustful relationships? In this episode of the podcast, we speak with Adele Bates, SEMH behaviour specialist and author of 'Miss, I Don't Give a Sh*t! - Engaging with Challenging Behaviour in Schools. Adele shares her expert insights on addressing challenging behaviour and the importance of forming meaningful connections with student...
Sep 24, 2024•12 min•Season 1Ep. 230
In this episode of the School Behaviour Secrets podcast, we interview educational expert George Athanasiou to discuss the power of adaptive teaching strategies. Discover how flexible and multisensory approaches can dramatically boost student engagement, reduce behavioural issues, and improve outcomes for all learners, especially those with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Important links: Here's the link for George's TikTok account Visit George Athanasiou's website here And fin...
Sep 22, 2024•37 min•Season 1Ep. 229
Did you know language processing disorders can be a major driver of challenging classroom behaviour? Often overlooked, but critical in supporting students with special needs, we look into how difficulties with understanding and expressing language affect students' emotions and actions. Effective support can make all the difference. Tune in to the School Behaviour Secrets Podcast for valuable insights that could transform your teaching! Important links: Click here to hear all of episode 29 Get ou...
Sep 18, 2024•10 min•Season 1Ep. 228
For the first time on School Behaviour Secrets we are sharing our podcast on the usual audio format as well as on YouTube as a video podcast. So, if you're someone who prefers to watch rather than listen, you've now got the option of doing either. In today's special podcast, we're exploring one of the most critical issues affecting students - how to quickly and effectively identify pupils with social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs. Whether you're a teacher or a school leader, underst...
Sep 15, 2024•16 min•Season 1Ep. 227
What's the future looking like for the School Behaviour Secrets podcast? In this preview episode, we unveil the exciting new direction for the podcast. From offering video content to ensuring solo episodes are packed with essential strategies for classroom success, these changes are designed to help you get the most out of your time while supporting the social and emotional needs of your students. Important links: If you want to get in touch to share your thoughts, here's my email: simon@beacons...
Sep 10, 2024•4 min•Season 1Ep. 226
Are you working with students who frequently get dysregulated in school, lose control of their emotions, and find it hard to use agreed strategies for sustained behaviour change? In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we uncover the core elements of effective regulation plans. From identifying triggers to rehearsing new behaviours, learn practical strategies that foster self-regulation and academic success. Important links: Get your FREE Beacon School Support guide to helping children mana...
Jul 14, 2024•31 min•Season 1Ep. 225
Imagine a classroom where students step into virtual worlds to learn essential social skills and prepare for life's challenges. This vision is becoming a reality through the power of virtual reality (VR). In our latest podcast episode, Ange Anderson, headteacher of an innovative special school in Wales, discusses how VR technology is reshaping educational practices. Join us as we explore how VR can help prepare young people for real life situations and how technology can make life in school easi...
Jul 09, 2024•11 min•Season 1Ep. 224
In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we ask: What are the most effective strategies for helping students with ADHD in the classroom? Our guest, ADHD expert Abby Moehringer, shares practical ideas, tips, and strategies to help students with ADHD get on top of strong emotions and stay regulated in class. Tune in as we explore proactive approaches that you can implement today! Important links: To visit Abby's website: Mrs Moes Modifications Click here to download Abby's FREE visual calming ...
Jul 07, 2024•31 min•Season 1Ep. 223
Are you supporting children who frequently lose self-control when faced with big emotions like anger and anxiety? In this Essentials episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we introduce the concept of pro regulation - a proactive approach to emotional management. Learn how to help your students recognise and act on their feelings before they escalate, ensuring a calmer and more controlled classroom environment. Important links: Click here to hear all of episode 91 Get your FREE Beacon School Suppor...
Jul 03, 2024•11 min•Season 1Ep. 222
We want our schools to be welcoming, inclusive places where everyone feels okay about being in school. But for many autistic pupils, that isn't the case. So how do we help? That's the focus for this episode of the School Behaviour Secrets podcast, where we join Joss Lambert and Lily Ashby from the Autistic And OK Programme. They explain the challenges faced by neurodiverse students and what schools can do to help autistic pupils feel accepted and understood. Important links: To find out more abo...
Jun 30, 2024•40 min•Season 1Ep. 221
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Pathological Demand Avoidance syndrome (PDA) can look similar, but they're actually very different. In this Essentials Episode of School Behaviour Secrets we explore key differences between ODD and PDA, because understanding these conditions is crucial so you can adopt the correct strategies to provide effective pupil support. Important links: Click here to hear all of episode 93 Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-...
Jun 26, 2024•13 min•Season 1Ep. 220
Are you searching for effective ways to support students who struggle with social interactions? Social scripts could be the game-changer you've been looking for! In this week's episode of School Behaviour Secrets we sit down with guest expert, Sue Larkey. Discover how tailored scripts can help students navigate social interactions effectively, foster independence and confidence, and create a supportive environment for neurodiverse learners. Important links: Visit Sue Larkey's website here The li...
Jun 23, 2024•34 min•Season 1Ep. 219
Many kids with autism become experts at "masking" their true feelings and needs. This can be helpful in the short term, but over time, it can leave them feeling drained and exhausted. So, if you're ready to find out more about supporting children with masking behaviours, then join us for the latest School Behaviour Secrets podcast. Important links: Click here to hear all of episode 87 Amanda Sokell's website Navigating Neurodiversity . Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsu...
Jun 18, 2024•12 min•Season 1Ep. 218
In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we explore Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) with Tiffany Voigt, experienced speech and language pathologist from eLuma. We cover the hidden challenges faced by students with DLD, and how these affect their learning and behaviour. Discover why early intervention and targeted support are crucial, and learn practical strategies so you can support students with DLD effectively. Important links: Click here to find out more about the support available ...
Jun 16, 2024•42 min•Season 1Ep. 217
Are you looking for ways to empower your students to stand up against bullying? In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we sit down with Alex Holmes, Deputy CEO of the Diana Award and Vice Chair of the National Anti-Bullying Alliance, to explore innovative strategies for student involvement in anti-bullying initiatives. Important links: Click here to hear all of episode 83 Get your FREE Beacon School Support guide to helping children manage their strong emotions Get our FREE SEND Behaviour ...
Jun 11, 2024•13 min•Season 1Ep. 216