Teachers Talk Radio

In this second show in his series on exam pressure, Darren explores what the research says about reducing student anxiety in assessments. Drawing on evidence-based strategies, he focuses on practical in-school interventions that can make a measurable difference to how students experience tests. From classroom approaches to whole-school practices, this episode offers clear, research-informed insights for teachers and school leaders looking to support student wellbeing and improve performance under pressure.

A school letter has sparked controversy after making extra GCSE revision including weekends compulsory, with consequences for absence. But where is the line between high expectations and excessive pressure? In tonight’s Points of View, we ask: Should schools be able to mandate extra sessions? Do strict systems raise standards or risk burnout? And who decides what’s “too far” when exams are on the line? Join the debate as we explore how far schools should go in the name of results.

 

Featuring JP, Tom Rogers, Tony Harwood and Michael Wright.

In this special Teachers Talk Radio show, brought to you in partnership with Hachette Learning, hosts Tom Rogers and Charlotte Newman are joined by Joe Kinnaird to explore his new book, Secondary Religious Education in Action.

Drawing on classroom experience and the latest research, Joe shares a vision for high-quality RE, one that challenges students to engage deeply with religious and non-religious worldviews, grapple with philosophical and ethical questions, and develop informed, critical responses. The conversation explores practical strategies for curriculum design, teaching disciplinary knowledge, and handling sensitive or controversial topics, alongside a wider discussion about the purpose and value of RE in today’s schools.

Check out the book here: https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/joe-kinnaird-2/secondary-religious-education-in-action/9781915261915/

In this show of Teachers Talk Radio, Famida Choudhary is joined by Amir Taron Ayres to rethink one of education’s most debated classroom tools — worksheets. Moving beyond the idea of worksheets as passive tasks, the conversation explores how teachers can transform routine activities into opportunities for intellectual engagement, discussion, error analysis, collaboration, and deeper learning. Drawing on ideas around alignment, relevance, student thinking, and Charlotte Danielson’s work on active engagement, the episode highlights how worksheets can become scaffolds for meaningful learning experiences rather than simple completion tasks.

A school letter has sparked controversy after making extra GCSE revision — including weekends — compulsory, with consequences for absence. But where is the line between high expectations and excessive pressure?

In tonight’s Points of View, we ask: Should schools be able to mandate extra sessions? Do strict systems raise standards or risk burnout? And who decides what’s “too far” when exams are on the line?

Join the debate as we explore how far schools should go in the name of results.