Episodes
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In this episode, I sit down with CAFS teacher Emily Wuergatsch to discuss the joys and challenges of teaching CAFS. We chat about strategies for new CAFS teachers to build a strong foundation, as well as ways experienced teachers can reignite their passion and avoid burnout. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned CAFS veteran, you'll walk away with practical tips and insights to help you thrive in the classroom and better support your students. And don't forget - the doors to join The CAFS Collective, our vibrant community of CAFS teachers, are now open. Head to thelearnnet.com/collective to find out more.
The power of collaboration and learning from experienced CAFS teachers Building a resource bank to save time and energy Strategies to support students with literacy and content comprehension Importance of self-care and protecting your wellbeing as a CAFS teacher Benefits of joining a community like The CAFS Collective
Episode Highlights:About Emily
I am a dedicated PDHPE teacher with six years of experience, including five years teaching Community and Family Studies (CAFS). I am driven by a deep passion for connecting with students, especially helping seniors achieve their full potential. I love tackling new challenges and roles around the school including being a Year Advisor and ARCO.
In 2023, I faced a tough period of burnout and adrenal fatigue, which I thought might end my career; however, my passion for teaching and the joy of impacting students' lives motivated me to continue. Outside of work, I love to recharge by playing netball, attending Pilates, and diving into my love for reading—my personal record being 20 books in a single month!
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With 20 years of teaching CAFS under my belt, I’ve seen it all—the challenges, the wins and everything in between.
I’m pulling back the curtain on what’s been working for teachers in our CAFS community. From creative strategies that boost student engagement to practical tips for managing assessments, I’ll share the real-life transformations that have taken place in classrooms just like yours.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your CAFS journey, this episode will give you insights, inspiration, and a glimpse into the power of collaboration within our teaching network.
Tune in to learn what’s helping our members thrive and how you can apply these strategies to your own teaching practice.
Join me to discover how teachers like you are levelling up their CAFS game—and get a sneak peek into the support and resources that are waiting for you in our community! -
Missing episodes?
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In this episode, I reflect on my own HSC experience 25 years ago and share 5 key things I would do differently if I were sitting the HSC exams again today. Drawing from my decades of experience as a PDHPE and CAFS teacher, I provide valuable insights and strategies to help current HSC students maximise their performance and prepare effectively for their upcoming exams.
Key Takeaways:
I would study more effectively - reading notes is not enough, I would focus on practice questions and exam-style tasks I would develop essential skills, not just content knowledge - things like paragraph structure, data analysis, and understanding key glossary terms I would seek regular feedback from teachers and peers to identify areas for improvement I would break down exam questions before starting my response using the "Run FAR" strategy I would review and refine my answers, addressing common mistakes and misconceptions -
This episode focuses on how you can enhance how you teach Community and Family Studies. You see there is so much I take for granted, after teaching Community and Family Studies for over 20 years. There were lots of mistakes I made in the early days and there were things that I didn't even know about. Fast track to now there are 4 things that I would really focus on more. Links to families, communities & case studies; Interrelationships between content; foster positive relationships and enhance assessment in Community and Family Studies.
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Are you navigating the complexities of the HSC Community and Family Studies (CAFS) course? Don’t let common pitfalls trip you up! In this essential episode, "5 Common Mistakes in HSC CAFS," we shine a spotlight on the frequent errors that can hinder your success and offer practical advice to steer clear of them. From misinterpreting exam questions to neglecting key aspects of the syllabus, we cover the critical areas where students often go wrong in Community and Family Studies (and what you can do to rectify the common mistakes).
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Overworking has become a norm for many PDHPE teachers, but what if the price is more than you realise? In this episode, we uncover the hidden costs—both financial and emotional—of overworking as a PDHPE and Health and Movement Science teacher. From sacrificing personal time to losing productivity due to burnout, we discuss why an upfront investment in the right resources and support can save you as a busy PDHPE and Health and Movement Science teacher from paying a much higher price down the line.
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Why do some PDHPE teachers feel the need to constantly reinvent the wheel, especially as we embark on the changes in Health and Movement Science? This episode tackles that question head-on, debunking the myth that innovation always demands starting from scratch. Join us for a deep dive into the resources, strategies and proven practices that are already at your fingertips, ready to transform your Health and Movement Science teaching experience.
We emphasise the power of connection, collaboration and community using existing resources to enhance learning outcomes without the extra stress. Discover how leveraging tried-and-tested methods can save you time, increase efficiency and still deliver cutting-edge education. Whether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned pro, this episode will reassure you that sometimes the best way forward is by building on the solid foundations that already exist.
Tune in and find out how to innovate inHealth and Movement Science smartly and creatively without having to reinvent the wheel.
It will be our pleasure to support you to protect your time in HMS.
Renew or joins us: thelearnnet.com/hms -
In this episode, I'm joined by the amazing Nat Littler to unpack the brand new PDHPE syllabus for K-6 and 7-10. As a former syllabus writer, Nat brings a wealth of insight and expertise to help us navigate these changes. We'll dive into what's new, what's out, and share our top tips to help you feel confident and excited about implementing the updated curriculum. Whether you teach primary, high school, or the full K-12 spectrum, this episode has you covered! Grab a cuppa and let's get into it. Download bonus resources at thelearnnet.com/newpdhpe
The new syllabus is much more streamlined and user-friendly, with fewer outcomes and more flexibility The 5 propositions are now embedded throughout, rather than being a separate entity There's a stronger focus on mental health, consent, and respectful relationships Aquatics has been de-emphasised, giving you more freedom to tailor content to your school context The common grade scale now provides clearer descriptors for student achievement Don't throw everything out! Review your existing programs and see what can be adapted to the new syllabus
Key Takeaways: -
In this episode, I share a simple yet highly effective feedback strategy called WIN Feedback that I've been using in my PDHPE and CAFS classes for over a decade. I explain how this strategy evolved from my early experiences in parent-teacher conferences, where I found that directly engaging students in conversations about their performance was more impactful than just talking to parents. The WIN Feedback strategy involves three key components: What the student has done well, Improvements that need to be made, and Necessary actions the student can take to improve. I discuss how I developed this acronym and implemented the strategy in my own classroom, as well as the challenges I faced in getting my faculty to adopt it. Over time, the strategy has expanded to include the use of color-coding, feedback forms, and integrating it with the school's assessment systems. I share practical tips on how teachers can implement WIN Feedback in their own classrooms, whether it's using post-it notes, highlighters, or dedicated sections on assessment tasks.
Episode Highlights:
The WIN Feedback strategy involves three key components: What the student has done well, Improvements to be made, and Necessary actions to improve. The strategy evolved from my early experiences in parent-teacher conferences, where I found that directly engaging students in conversations about their performance was more impactful. Implementing the strategy in my faculty initially faced some resistance, but it was eventually adopted and integrated into the assessment process. The strategy has expanded over time to include the use of color-coding, feedback forms, and integration with the school's assessment systems. I provide practical tips on how teachers can implement WIN Feedback in their classrooms, such as using post-it notes, highlighters, or dedicated sections on assessment tasks. The strategy is designed to be simple, effective, and student-centered, empowering learners to take ownership of their own improvement. I have shared the WIN Feedback strategy with thousands of teachers across New South Wales and it has become a common language in the CAFS and HMS teaching communities. -
In this episode of the PDHPE and CAFS Podcast, I share five simple and practical strategies to help streamline your marking as a busy high school teacher. Whether you're marking junior assessments, PDHPE, CAFS, or the upcoming Health and Movement Science exams, these tips will save you time, energy, and sanity. I draw on my 20+ years of experience as a PDHPE and CAFS educator, as well as my time as a senior HSC marker, to provide you with proven methods for making your marking more efficient and effective. From printing guidelines in color to using a "pink for positive, green for growth" feedback system, you'll walk away with actionable steps to transform your marking process. Tune in to learn how to streamline your marking, maintain your well-being, and ensure your students receive the valuable feedback they deserve. Let's work together to make your afternoons, weekends, and holidays a little bit easier.
Key Takeaways:
Print marking guidelines in colored paper (A5 size) to help students visually engage with the criteria Separate student responses into sections (e.g. multiple choice, short answer, extended response) to divide the marking workload Conduct "wide reading" to establish benchmarks and adjust marking guidelines as needed Focus on marking one or two questions at a time to maintain consistency and clarity Use a "pink for positive, green for growth" system to provide constructive feedback -
In this episode of the PDHPE and CAFS Podcast, I share four essential tips and strategies to help students maximise their exam performance. I provide practical advice on tackling multiple-choice questions, using the "RUN FAR" planning method, mastering glossary keywords, and crafting effective examples.
Episode Highlights Include:
Strategies for approaching multiple-choice questions, including using past HSC papers and the "THINK" acronym The "RUN FAR" method for planning exam responses, including reading the question, underlining key terms, and formulating a plan The importance of understanding and applying glossary keywords to demonstrate depth of knowledge Tips for creating "SUAVE" examples that are specific, unique, applied, varied, and explicit Encouragement for teachers to share resources and strategies to help students succeed in their exams -
In this episode, I share 8 effective study techniques that high school students can use to improve their performance in PDHPE, CAFS, and Health and Movement Science subjects. As a teacher for 16 years, I've seen what works best for students, and I'm excited to pass these strategies on to you.
To get a copy of my free worksheet "8 PDHPE & CAFS Revision Strategies That Actually Work!", visit thelearnnet.com/revision -
In this episode, I’m diving into teacher burnout using the analogy of cultural burning practices in Aboriginal communities. I’m sharing my personal experiences with burnout, comparing it to how prescribed burns are used to regenerate land and prevent wildfires. I also chat about the importance of protecting your well-being as a teacher, and advocating for change to support your flourishing.
Episode highlights include:
✨ The connection between cultural burning practices and preventing teacher burnout✨ My three personal experiences with burnout and how it impacted my health and home life
✨ Insights from indigenous fire practitioners on land management and preventing destruction
✨ Systemic issues in schools that can "choke" teachers and impact their identity
✨ The collective responsibility of teachers to work together, heal, and thrive in their careers
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⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672
⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - https://www.thelearnnet.com/resources
⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
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I’m sharing 4 practical steps teachers can take to flourish even when feeling busy and overwhelmed: Connecting with colleagues, Collaborating on projects, Building a supportive Community, and Cultivating a positive school Culture. Get ready to learn strategies for collaboration, leadership, wellbeing and creating thriving learning environments for both students and teachers.
Episode Highlights:👉 The importance of connecting with other teachers for support and shared responsibility
👉 Ways to collaborate more effectively on curriculum, projects and day-to-day tasks
👉 Developing a shared vision and goals to ensure the whole school is working together
👉 Fostering wellbeing and a culture where teachers feel empowered to try new ideas
👉 Cultivating rich communities where teachers and students can both grow and learn
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⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672
⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - https://www.thelearnnet.com/resources
⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
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As a busy teacher, I know how easy it is to get caught up in all the tasks and commitments of the term and forget to take care of yourself. On this episode of Teach and Flourish, I share three simple strategies for prioritising your wellbeing as a teacher. I discuss using time as a finite resource, evaluating what drains your energy versus fuels your day, and the importance of self-care.
Episode Highlights:
👉 Manage your time like a reservoir - fill it up and avoid letting it drain completely
👉 Reassess your commitments and say no if additional tasks won't be a good use of your time and energy
👉 Evaluate projects and people to determine what energises you versus what depletes your energy
👉 Prioritise self-care through adequate sleep, nutrition, exercise and mindfulness to avoid burnout
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⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672
⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - https://www.thelearnnet.com/resources
⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses -
To launch our new-look and new-name podcast, I’m sharing my personal story of burnout as a teacher and my journey to find strategies to protect my wellbeing. I open up about the systemic failures impacting teachers and share practical solutions you can implement in your own classroom.
Episode Highlights:
👉 My experience of burnout and leaving the teaching profession to develop strategies to support teacher wellbeing
👉 Why teachers are leaving the profession in large numbers due to lack of support and burnout from the system
👉 Practical classroom strategies to help reignite passion and protect time/energy
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⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672
⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - https://www.thelearnnet.com/resources
⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
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I'm excited to share 100 strategies, resources and tools that you can implement in your CAFS classroom right away. From formative assessment techniques to cooperative learning strategies, this episode is packed full of practical ideas that I've gathered from my 20 years of teaching experience. I'll also discuss some common misconceptions students have and provide clarity on key terms. Additionally, I'll share how you can join The CAFS Collective teacher community and access even more exclusive resources.
10 formative assessment strategies you can use tomorrow 5 cooperative learning structures that boost student engagement 3 ways to help students understand the difference between policies and legislation How the gratitude jar builds positive relationships in the classroom How to join the CAFS Collective Facebook group for ongoing teacher support
Episode Highlights:Click here to access my top 100 tools: https://docs.google.com/document/d/16tmtxIHrfC1fiLApnCEwP3Nf8-RzSUgA1uOQmYf8lBc/copy?usp=sharing
🔗 Join The CAFS Collective https://www.thelearnnet.com/collective
⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672
⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - https://www.thelearnnet.com/resources
⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses -
This week I’m sharing strategies for busy Community and Family Studies (CAFS) teachers to protect your time and wellbeing during challenging times in the NSW education system. I’m opening up about my own experiences as a former relieving head teacher and encourage you to advocate for yours and your students' needs. Listen in to learn action steps to communicate effectively with school leaders and orchestrate a plan to manage your workload.
Episode HIghlights:
✨ The importance of advocating for your faculty's needs and justifying budget requests to school executives.
✨ The value of initiating open conversations with colleagues to set priorities and boundaries around your workload.
✨ Learn how to translate complex workload requests into realistic time commitments to get approval from principals.
✨ Gain strategies for orchestrating a self-care plan and negotiating professional learning opportunities.
🔗 Find out more about our free CAFS Camp (May 13-15, 2024): https://www.thelearnnet.com/cafscamp
🔗 Join The CAFS Collective https://www.thelearnnet.com/collective
⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672
⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - https://www.thelearnnet.com/resources
⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses -
In this episode, I share what I would do differently if teaching Community and Family Studies based on my 20+ years of experience. I discuss explicit knowledge of the syllabus, teaching the glossary of keywords, paragraph structure, developing options structure from day one, embedding wellbeing, using specific and varied examples, and planning answers using the RUNFAR method.
Explicitly teach syllabus understanding over just knowledge Teach application of glossary words from the start Develop paragraph structure skills from Year 7 Start options structure practice in Year 11 Embed wellbeing for part C of the options Use unique, specific examples from your local context Plan answers using the RUNFAR method of reading, underlining, naming, formulating a plan, answering, and reviewing
Episode Highlights:🔗 Find out more about our free CAFS Camp (May 13-15, 2024): https://www.thelearnnet.com/cafscamp
⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672
⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - https://www.thelearnnet.com/resources
⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
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In this episode, I chat with occupational therapist Angela Lockwood about practical strategies teachers can implement to maintain focus and prevent burnout in their high-pressure jobs. Angie draws from her 20 years of experience in education and shares insights on morning routines, setting boundaries, and using self-awareness to design systems that allow teachers to stay in control of their energy and time.
Episode Highlights:
Implement a morning routine including deep breathing, visualization and journaling to set positive intentions for the day Carve out quiet preparation time each day such as arriving early to focus on deep work like lesson planning Set boundaries to protect classroom time and request alternative collaboration spaces if needed Seek support from a trusted listener if feeling overly reactive, stressed or burned out💫 About Angela Lockwood
As a qualified occupational therapist, Angela has helped thousands of people live their potential despite the challenges and difficulties they faced. Since founding Educate Therapy Pty Ltd, a consulting practice working with across all sectors and industries sharing her tools and strategies on finding calm and managing distraction, Angela turned her hand to her love of writing and authored books on finding calm: 'The Power of Conscious Choice' and 'Switch Off' and the newly revised version, 'Switch Off and Find Calm'.
🔗 Find out more about Angela Lockwood at https://www.angelalockwood.com.au/
⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672
⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - https://www.thelearnnet.com/resources
⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
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