Teacher talk

These are my thoughts on what makes an effective teacher - you may agree or disagree and that is fine as long as it gets you thinking.

One of the four purposes at the heart of the new curriculum for Wales is to develop 'creative contributors'. How can we bring creativity into the classroom? Can creativity be taught? Here are my thoughts and opinions on this huge topic...

Literacy is a huge topic to discuss in 10 mins but these are my thoughts on where to begin when considering literacy development in your classroom and some particular suggestions for oracy activities.

Effective questions can develop deeper learning and getting pupils to ask their own questions creates a culture of enquiry and curiosity.

Lesson observations often make teachers feel anxious but teaching is what you do every day of every week, so have confidence. Think about some of these tips to ensure the lesson observation goes smoothly and is a useful experience for you.

This needs to be a priority for schools particularly in these current difficult times during the pandemic. Pupils living in poverty and deprivation need schools to remove barriers to learning, so that their experience matches that of other children.

Here are some practical ways to create challenge in your lessons - our MAT (More Able and Talented) learners need stretching and challenging to keep them engaged in their learning.

Being a teacher can be tough - we must look after ourselves. I would like to offer 10 things to consider to help teachers focus on their wellbeing.

I am no 'behaviour expert' but I would like to offer new teachers some suggestions from my experience, reading and research that will offer food for thought.

After 22 years of teaching one of my favourite roles is to mentor PGCE students and new teachers in school. I hope my thoughts that I am sharing with you will help you to not just survive your first year of teaching, but actually enjoy it and thrive at the start of your career journey.