The Teachers' Podcast

Chris Hyde & Emma Archer

Welcome!

This is a space for everyone working in primary education. Whether you're in the classroom, leading a school, or supporting learning this is your place to hear real, honest and relatable conversations about school life.

Originally hosted by Claire Riley for the first three seasons, Season 4 introduces new hosts Chris and Emma, bringing a fresh energy and plenty of staffroom-style chat.

Created in association with Classroom Secrets and proudly sponsored by them, the podcast is backed by research-informed, ready-to-use lesson content that supports adaptive teaching—helping you save time and focus on what matters most.

Grab a brew, pop your headphones in, and join us for a chat!

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20 episodes
Updated July 21

Episodes20

Newest first

July 21 · 43 min
Rewards and Stickers - Do They Work?
Rewards are a staple of many primary classrooms, but how much difference do they really make? In this episode, Emma and Chris take a closer look at everything from stickers and house points to certificates and whole-class reward systems, exploring when rewards can be a powerful tool and when they might do more harm than good. They delve into the research behind rewards, including the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, and discuss how reward systems can influence children's behaviour, confidence and long-term attitudes to learning. Along the way, they share honest reflections on the approaches they've embraced, the ones they've questioned and the practical tweaks that have made the biggest difference in their own classrooms. Rather than asking whether rewards are simply 'good' or'bad', Emma and Chris consider how teachers can use them thoughtfully to encourage effort, build positive classroom cultures and help children develop motivation that lasts beyond the promise of a sticker. This week's teacher tip is a simple way to get your class’s attention instantly while not shredding your vocal cords! Research Hub article: https://my.chartered.college/research-hub/the-dark-side-of-rewards-and-punishments-in-the-classroom-part-i/ Get in touch: theteacherspodcast@classroomsecrets.co.uk Visit our sponsors: Tandem Teach: tandemteach.ai Classroom Secrets: classroomsecrets.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
July 14 · 41 min
Transition Days
In our second transition episode, Emma and Chris turn their attention to transition from one year group to another beyond Reception into Year 1! From changing classrooms and teachers to stepping into a new Key Stage, they discuss why transition matters and the impact it can have on children's confidence, wellbeing and learning. Drawing on their own experiences, they share examples of transition done brilliantly, a few that didn't quite go to plan and the lessons they've learned along the way. Expect plenty of practical ideas, from end-of-year activities and teacher handovers to simple things that can make a big difference over the summer break. Emma and Chris also reflect on the role transition plays in children's wellbeing, relationships and learning, and share their top tips for making sure September starts on the right foot. This week's teacher tip is all about pupil trays and is GUARANTEED to reduce time looking for a specific pupil’s tray! Get in touch: theteacherspodcast@classroomsecrets.co.uk Visit our sponsors: Tandem Teach: tandemteach.ai Classroom Secrets: classroomsecrets.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
July 7 · 44 min
Transition: Reception to Year 1
n the first of our two episodes all about transition, we're tackling one of the biggest milestones in primary education: the move from Reception to Year 1. Emma and Chris explore the shift from the play-based exploratory world of EYFS to the more structured demands of Year 1 and the National Curriculum. They discuss the opportunities and challenges this transition brings for children, teachers and families, and share practical ideas for making the move as smooth and successful as possible. Along the way, they consider what good transition practice looks like and how many of these principles can be applied across other year groups too. This week’s teacher tip is about the ‘secret pupil’ and the power of a handful of lollipop sticks! Get in touch: theteacherspodcast@classroomsecrets.co.uk Visit our sponsors: Tandem Teach: tandemteach.ai Classroom Secrets: classroomsecrets.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
June 30 · 44 min
School Trips
Grab your first aid kit, sick bucket and risk assessment; we're heading out on a school trip! In this episode, Chris and Emma explore one of the most memorable parts of school life, sharing their own experiences as both pupils and teachers along the way. They discuss the many benefits of learning beyond the classroom, the types of trips that suit different age groups and the practical challenges schools face when organising them. They also consider some of the barriers to taking children on trips and explore potential solutions. Whether you're a seasoned trip leader or planning your first outing, join the conversation as they unpack the opportunities, logistics and lasting impact of school trips. This week's teacher tip may help combat the issue of missing PE kits! Get in touch: theteacherspodcast@classroomsecrets.co.uk Visit our sponsors: Tandem Teach: tandemteach.ai Classroom Secrets: classroomsecrets.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
June 23 · 52 min
Homework Part 2: Pros and Cons
It’s time to get stuck into the pros and cons of homework! After discussing the research in the last episode, Chris and Emma talk about the benefits of homework as well as the drawbacks of setting it. From building independent learning habits and reinforcing classroom content to concerns around workload, equity and engagement, they explore both sides of the debate. Is homework still an essential part of education, or is it time to rethink its role? Join the conversation as they unpack one of teaching’s most enduring topics. This week’s teacher tip is a way to help fight the battle of pupils losing items of stationery! Schools in England blog discussed during this episode: https://schoolsinengland.co.uk/blog/homework-expectations-primary Get in touch: theteacherspodcast@classroomsecrets.co.uk Visit our sponsors: Tandem Teach: tandemteach.ai Classroom Secrets: classroomsecrets.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
June 16 · 44 min
Homework Part 1: The Evidence
It’s time to talk about all things homework in the first of our two-part discussion! In this first episode, Chris and Emma focus on the research behind homework – what is the impact, how much should be set and how often should it be set? With a discussion about the history of homework along the way, including how the Labour government and the Victorian attitude to homework impact on modern approaches, there’s a lot to get your teeth into! This week’s teacher tip is a lovely plenary idea that will promote oracy and positivity in your classroom! Get in touch: theteacherspodcast@classroomsecrets.co.uk Visit our sponsors: Tandem Teach: tandemteach.ai Classroom Secrets: classroomsecrets.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
June 9 · 45 min
Table Arrangements
This week, Emma and Chris tackle how to arrange tables in your classroom! They discuss the pros and cons of the three most common ways of organising tables, such as impact on pupil focus, how social interaction can be affected and how navigating around the classroom is a key consideration. With anecdotes, personal recollections and experiences along the way, this will give you food for thought for how your seating is set out in your classroom! This week’s teacher tip will help shave time off each book that you mark, helping your work-life balance! Get in touch: theteacherspodcast@classroomsecrets.co.uk Visit our sponsors: Tandem Teach: tandemteach.ai Classroom Secrets: classroomsecrets.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
June 2 · 38 min
Etymology
In the final part of our three-episode deep dive into orthography, morphology and etymology as part of the writing framework, Chris and Emma talk all about excellent etymology! With an explanation of what this is, suggestions for how to teach it within your classroom and quick-win games on using etymology to impact spelling, this episode will help you understand what etymology is and how you can immediately start threading it into your teaching. This week’s teacher tip is an easy one to help your class community too. Hit download and enjoy! Get in touch: theteacherspodcast@classroomsecrets.co.uk Visit our sponsors: Tandem Teach: tandemteach.ai Classroom Secrets: classroomsecrets.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
May 26 · 43 min
Morphology
In the second part of our three-episode deep dive into orthography, morphology and etymology as part of the writing framework, Chris and Emma talk all about the marvellous world of morphology! Full of information about how to teach morphology both explicitly and implicitly, strategies for embedding it within your classroom and the linguistic theory behind it, this episode is sure to help you tackle morphemes to bolster your teaching of spelling. With a teacher tip linked to your personal wellbeing, there is lots to discover in this episode so get downloading! Get in touch: theteacherspodcast@classroomsecrets.co.uk Visit our sponsors: Tandem Teach: tandemteach.ai Classroom Secrets: classroomsecrets.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
May 19 · 43 min
Orthography
Chris and Emma kick off a three‑part series exploring the building blocks of spelling, starting with orthography—how children learn what “looks right” in written English. Chris shares the roots of his love for language, why English spelling is so complex and how phonics, pattern‑spotting and automaticity shape confident writers. They unpack spelling across EYFS to KS2, touch on Ofsted’s expectations and offer practical ways teachers can support children without overwhelming them. Get in touch: theteacherspodcast@classroomsecrets.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
May 12 · 45 min
Phase 1 Phonics
In this episode of the Teachers Podcast, Chris and Emma dive into phase one phonics—the playful sound-focused stage that comes before the more official letters and reading. Emma explains how it’s all about listening, rhythm, rhyme, alliteration and oral blending, giving children the foundations for confident reading later on. From environmental sounds to body percussion, voice experiments, and fun games like I-Spy, they explore practical ways to bring phonics to life in nursery and early years classrooms—and even revisit it with older children when needed. It’s a happy reminder that phonics is about playing with sounds, building attention, and sparking a love of language. Get in touch: theteacherspodcast@classroomsecrets.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
May 5 · 54 min
Reading to Your Class
In this episode, Chris and Emma celebrate one of the simplest (and most magical) things teachers do: reading aloud to your class. No guided reading, no assessments—just you, a book and your pupils, sharing stories together. They chat about why it’s so powerful for building vocabulary, imagination and classroom community, how to make the time for it, choosing books that children actually love and leaning into the joy of storytelling with voices, gestures and pauses. Packed with practical tips and teacher anecdotes, this episode is a reminder that reading aloud isn’t an extra—it’s a core classroom experience worth protecting. Get in touch: theteacherspodcast@classroomsecrets.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
April 28 · 55 min
Sustainability
In this episode, Chris and Emma are discussing sustainability and what this looks like in primary schools. They break down what sustainability actually means, share real classroom ideas you can try straight away and swap plenty of relatable stories along the way. From simple swaps and clever classroom hacks to the bigger challenges schools face, this episode is packed with practical tips, a few laughs and just enough inspiration to help you take that first small step towards a greener classroom. Get in touch: theteacherspodcast@classroomsecrets.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
April 21 · 55 min
AI in the Classroom
In this episode, Emma and Chris chat all things AI in the classroom, with Chris sharing his insights while Emma admits she’s still a bit on the fence. They break down what AI actually is, how fast it’s evolving and some of the handy ways it can support teaching—from saving time to creating useful resources. They touch on the trickier bits too, like ethics and whether or not we should really be thanking our devices! There’s plenty of relatable teacher chat, including report-writing woes and how AI can be really useful for saving time and finding resources that actually fit your class, plus a reminder that the human touch still matters most. There is also a super-simple tip with Emma chatting about pens again. Get in touch: theteacherspodcast@classroomsecrets.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
April 14 · 51 min
Outdoor Learning
In this episode, Chris and Emma discuss outdoor learning, with Emma bringing all the passion and experience and Chris admitting he’s still a bit of a beginner in this area. Emma shares why she loves it so much as she talks through its amazing benefits. Anecdotes and examples are swapped including how much can be done with potatoes! They also address some tricky questions like how do you squeeze outdoor learning into an already packed curriculum? How do you find the space or the right location? How do you get your leadership team on board? This week’s useful tip involves Chris discussing an inventive use of a humble cushion. Get in touch: theteacherspodcast@classroomsecrets.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
April 14 · 48 min
School Culture and Climate
What makes a school a great place to work? Explore what really shapes a school’s atmosphere in this episode on climate and culture, as hosts Emma and Chris discuss what really shapes a school’s atmosphere. Drawing on personal stories, they highlight how small details—from staff interactions to leadership behaviour—can make a lasting first impression. With honest reflections on teaching life, they discuss how to create a positive school environment, including shared values, trust, collaboration, wellbeing and recognition. The episode wraps up with a simple but clever classroom tip to stop those ever-disappearing pens! Get in touch: theteacherspodcast@classroomsecrets.co.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
May 3, 2022 · 19 min
Mental Health and Children’s Activities: Jane James, founder of Little Voices
This week I chat with Jane James, the founder of Little Voices, about mental health, children’s activities and performing arts. In this episode, Jane shares: Why she is so passionate about performing arts being taught in schools. The benefits and skills children will get from learning performing arts and how they will be useful in the future. Tips to help teachers who may not have the confidence to teach the performing arts. If you’d like to learn more about Jane and Little Voices, you can visit: littlevoices.org.uk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Apr 26, 2022 · 25 min
Bringing Coaching Tools into the Classroom: Alice Westbury, education coach
In this episode, I talk with Alice Westbury about bringing coaching tools and strategies into the classroom. Alice is an education coach who works primarily with young people but a lot of what she shares in this episode is so valuable to those who teach in primary settings. In this episode, Alice shares: Why she believes using coaching tools can help pupils in the classroom and beyond. Why now is the time to start thinking about using coaching tools with pupils. Real actionable tips teachers can use now to start implementing coaching tools in the classroom easily. If you’d like to find out more about Alice, you can visit: cluedupcoaching.co.uk alicewestburycoaching.co.uk linkedin.com/in/alicewestbury See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Apr 5, 2022 · 38 min
How to say ‘no’ without the guilt: Annabel Jeffcoate, coach and founder of Balance for Teachers
In this episode I am joined by Annabel Jeffcoate, the founder of Balance for Teachers. Balance for Teacher aims to reduce the amount of stress related illness in the education sector and one of their strategies for doing so is empowering their clients to say ‘no’. In this episode, Annabel shares: Why curiosity and asking questions can be a powerful tool in changing perceptions of how other teachers/colleagues work. Why breaking down the reasons why you’re feeling a certain way in your job can help you work out the solution. Why saying ‘no’ to yourself is just as important as saying it to external influences. If you’d like to find out more about Annabel and Balance for Teachers you can visit: www.worklifebalanceforteachers.com https://www.instagram.com/teachersworklifebalancecoach/?hl=en https://twitter.com/balanceteachers https://www.facebook.com/balanceforteachers See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mar 29, 2022 · 27 min
Creating Cognitively Challenging Classrooms: Dr Keith Watson, consultant and coach
In this episode, I talk with Dr Keith Watson, an educational consultant and personal development coach who has over 30 years of experience working in education. Keith chats about creating cognitively challenging classrooms and how teachers can provide a challenge for all pupils. In this episode, Keith shares: What a cognitively challenging classroom can look like. Why he is so passionate about creating classrooms that challenge all pupils. Some tips on how to create this challenge culture in the classroom. If you’d like to find out more about Keith and his work, you can visit: keithwatsoncoaching.com https://twitter.com/DrKeithWatson1 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.