Teachers Talk Radio

Yannick and Tony conclude their discussion on the perceived increase in demand of the profession on teachers . They draw on surveys of UK teachers as well as their combined 50+ years of experience, to make a final, balanced conclusion. Is teaching really getting harder?

In this show, Darren explores the relationship between parental self-efficacy and student exam stress. How much does a parent's confidence in supporting their child's education influence how that child experiences assessment and exam pressure? Drawing on psychological and educational research, Darren examines the evidence linking parental beliefs, family support, academic resilience, and student wellbeing.

Carl asks why so many young people are economically inactive according to the Milburn report. He explores whether schools or teachers are to blame or whether it is in fact the system they operate in that has caused the problem. He also suggests what might be done to make things better.

Tim Smale talks to Rachel Johnson, chief executive of PiXL and author of Connected: Focusing on `Me` and `We`. Her big idea is simple: to thrive, young people need to be connected both to themselves and to others, yet we rarely teach them how to do either. Tim and Rachel explore what connection really means in schools, why belonging matters more than we admit, and whether much of what we call a behaviour problem was a connection problem all along.

You can get the book here: https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/rachel-johnson-2/connected/9781036007294/

Suspensions for racist, homophobic, transphobic and ableist abuse in schools have risen sharply but what’s really behind the trend? On this week’s Points of View, we explore the reasons behind rising reports, especially a new BBC one, of prejudicial abuse in schools.

Are social media, divisive politics and online influencers shaping attitudes among young people? Have funding cuts to pastoral and anti-bullying support left schools struggling to respond? Or are schools being expected to solve wider societal problems they cannot fix alone?

We’ll debate the role of parents, schools and government, ask whether suspensions are the right response, and discuss what practical solutions might actually make a difference.

Join us live to share your perspective: Why is prejudicial abuse rising in schools and what should happen next?