Episoder

  • Do you often find yourself reminding the same students about the same expectations? It’s draining, and it can start to feel personal, leading to unnecessary confrontations.

    Here’s a simple shift that can transform this dynamic:

    Make it about the visual. NOT about you!

    Instead of verbally repeating instructions, point to a visual cue on the wall, like a poster of class expectations or a checklist. This shifts the focus from “you vs. me” to a shared goal that everyone can see.

    In this episode, we look at simple visuals—like classroom norms posters, voice level charts, and “Steps for Success” checklists—that can transform your classroom dynamic. With just a quick gesture, you’re reinforcing standards without confrontation, helping students take more responsibility and saving your energy.



    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • You’ve FINALLY gotten your students settled and started at the start of the lesson… cue… the disruptive latecomer!

    This month on the podcast, I'm focusing on the first five minutes of each lesson—the foundation of a calm, connected start. However, even with a solid roadmap that guides teachers in creating a smooth start with key strategies, like shifting students’ energy through entry routines, engaging starters, and seamless transitions... there's one big wrench that can throw off this plan: when students arrive late.

    In this episode, we’ll dive into why students might be late and practical steps to get them on track without disrupting the flow.

    IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:

    The many reasons behind lateness: Beyond just "running late," chronic lateness can stem from factors like family routines, neurodivergence (e.g., ADHD or autism), and executive function challenges. We also touch on how needs-based motivation can play into students’ timing.Practical steps to manage late arrivals: I share ways to welcome students in without disrupting the rest of the class. How to increase accountability and connection through private follow-ups: For repeated lateness, I discuss questions and prompts that encourage students to reflect on the reasons behind their lateness, explore if it’s in their control, and collaboratively make a plan to help them improve.Low-stakes latecomer tasks and routines: My top tips for engaging students that are late, without derailing the lesson.

    Late arrivals don’t always have to disrupt your lesson flow!! You just need the right tools to approach them consistently, and calmly.



    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
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  • Today’s Behaviour Bite is all about a simple yet powerful practice: asking and pausing—for much longer than you (probably) already do.

    IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:

    The common tendency among teachers to rush through questions: After asking if there are any questions, many of us move on immediately, often before giving students a chance to respond. Research shows that the average pause is just 0.9 seconds—far too short for effective processing.Understanding different types of thinkers: Some students process information internally, while others think out loud. Those who need time to reflect often don’t feel comfortable speaking up if we don’t allow enough pause. By waiting longer, we create space for all students to formulate their thoughts and questions.The impact of extended wait times: Studies indicate that 5-15 seconds of silence can significantly enhance student engagement and response quality. For example, when giving instructions, you can say, “Okay Year 8, before we get started, what questions do you have? I’ll give you 10 seconds to think.” This approach encourages deeper reflection and more meaningful contributions.

    This week, challenge yourself to extend your pauses when asking questions or giving instructions. Tune in to how much time you currently provide and consciously increase it. Observe how this impacts your students' clarity and the depth of their responses during discussions.



    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • Are you struggling with having a settled start to the lesson? Battling dysregulation and high energy?

    In today’s episode, we’re exploring the importance of the First 5—those critical first five minutes of each lesson.

    This time can make all the difference in shifting energy from the chaos of transitions to a calm, focused learning environment. We’ll dive into practical strategies for creating an “invisible barrier” that allows students to enter a space primed for learning, leaving the outside energy at the door.

    IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:

    Why the start of lessons can feel chaotic: From dysregulation and unpredictability to the residual energy of breaks, many factors beyond our control impact students’ readiness.What we can control: We’ll go over strategies for creating routines, setting expectations, and managing the physical environment to help students transition smoothly.Three essential routines for the First 5: I’ll share my personal non-negotiables that create consistency and predictability every day:Same welcome spot—Greeting students outside to create a transition from the hallway energy.Same seating arrangement—Reducing guesswork and enhancing predictability.Same starter routine—A consistent, engaging start to every lesson that signals it’s time to focus.



    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • In today’s episode, we’re diving into how building a growth mindset culture can be transformative in our classrooms. We’ll look at how fixed mindsets hold students back, especially when past experiences or fears of failure keep them from fully engaging in learning.

    Through this episode, Ill explore practical ways to build self-belief, helping students see challenges as chances to grow and celebrating their efforts along the way. These strategies are all about creating an environment where students feel safe, supported, and willing to try.

    IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:

    What might be going on for students who seem reluctant to engageHow past failures can lead to fixed mindsets and avoidancePractical ways to create a growth mindset culture in the classroomIdeas for embedding growth mindset language into daily discussions and activitiesWhy it’s important to celebrate effort rather than results

    If you’re looking to go deeper, I’ve put together a Growth Mindset Bundle filled with resources to support you in building this culture daily. It’s all designed to help take the guesswork out of fostering a growth mindset in your classroom, with editable lesson plans, bulletin boards, and posters that reinforce these ideas. I’d love for you to have these tools on hand, ready to support your students’ growth (without spending 2 weeks putting it together like I did 😂😂

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • Welcome to the second Behaviour Bite! Every Thursday (in addition to my main-course episode on Tuesday) I’ll be delivering one quick tip that you can put into action immediately to help you crush your classroom management!

    TODAY'S BEHAVIOUR BITE:
    Avoid locking horns... at all costs.

    Listen in as I talk through this bite, and give you your actionable takeaway!


    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • You’ve probably heard the phrase, "Behaviours are students meeting a need." In this episode, I’m diving into what that actually really means for your classroom and how understanding the needs behind student behaviour can transform your management approach.

    Listen in as I discuss:

    Glasser’s 5 basic needs and how they drive behaviour (survival, love/belonging, fun, power/mastery, and freedom)How unmet needs can lead to challenging behaviours in the classroomCore principles of Choice TheoryThe importance of embedding strategies into your practice that meet students' needsHow empowering students with an understanding of their own behaviours changes classroom dynamics

    When students understand the needs driving their behaviour, it shifts everything—discussions, dynamics, accountability, and even how they view themselves. To help foster that awareness, start here:

    Have a discussion with students (as a class or individually)Make them aware they have five basic needsExplain that everyone has these needs and is constantly trying to meet themAcknowledge that sometimes we make poor choices while trying to meet our needsEmphasize that they aren’t “bad,” and they aren’t defined by their behaviorsHighlight that we are all just doing the best we canEncourage awareness of their needs and choicesExplain that with awareness, they can make positive changes

    If you want to go deeper than this, I’ve done the work for you! I’ve created a fully resourced, engaging, and editable SEL lesson designed to help students not only understand their needs but also reflect on their behaviours and make positive changes. Grab it here!

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • Welcome to the inaugural episode of Behaviour Bites! Every Thursday (in addition to my main-course episode on Tuesday) I’ll be delivering one quick tip each week that you can put into action immediately to help you crush your classroom management!

    TODAY'S BEHAVIOUR BITE:
    Students will always follow our example, before they follow our instruction.

    Listen in as I talk through this bite, and give you your actionable takeaway!

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • In this episode, I’m diving into one of THE most transformative strategies for managing low-level disruptions—almost like flipping a switch. I'll explore how your teaching presence, especially through non-verbal communication, can significantly shift classroom behaviour. It’s not about doing one thing—it’s about everything you do.

    Listen in as I discuss:

    What even is a strong teaching presence?Understanding the power of non-verbal communication in classroom managementThe difference between "credible" and "approachable" teacher presence and when to use eachHow small changes in body language, tone, and stillness can immediately impact behaviorPractical examples of adjusting your teaching style for better student engagementThe importance of aligning your body language with the expectations you set for students

    This episode is packed with actionable strategies that can transform how you manage your classroom. If you’re tired of the constant chatter and low-level disruptions, listen in as I share the non-verbal techniques that changed everything for me—and they can for you too!

    Join the Low Level Behaviour Bootcamp and get 20% off with the code PODCAST20

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • Take the quiz! What's your teacher type?!

    Ever wondered why some classroom management strategies work wonders for others but fall flat for you? In today’s episode, we’re delving deep into the heart of teaching styles and uncovering what makes you uniquely you in the classroom.

    I’ll be taking you behind the scenes of my "What is Your Teacher Type?" quiz and showing you how this simple tool can unlock powerful insights into your teaching strengths and challenges.

    IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL DISCOVER:

    The real story behind why I created the "What is Your Teacher Type?" quiz and how it’s already helping thousands of teachers like you understand their classroom superpowers.Why the one-size-fits-all approach to classroom management simply doesn’t cut it and how understanding your unique style can change everything.An exclusive breakdown of the four distinct teacher types: the Dynamic Teacher, the Quiet Teacher, the Empathetic Teacher, and the Authority Figure—along with some real-life examples to help you see where you fit.


    Ready to discover your teaching type and take your classroom practice to the next level? It’s time to stop trying to fit into someone else’s mould and embrace your true self as an educator.

    Take the quiz now, and feel validated and confident with who you are in the classroom!

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • Take the quiz - What's your teacher type?! (Putting this right up top because I know that's why you came to the description)

    In today's episode I’ll be walking you through three mistakes you might unknowingly be making that can fuel these low-level behaviour spotfires. Now, I say “might be,” but let’s be real—after observing hundreds of lessons, I can tell you with certainty that these sneaky habits tend to creep into even the most experienced classrooms, and yes, I’ve been guilty of them too!

    But here’s the good news—once you recognize these patterns and make a few simple adjustments, you’ll start seeing real changes. And let me assure you, I’m sharing this from a place of experience, not perfection. I’ve made all these mistakes myself, and I’m still learning every day. So let’s dive in, get reflective, and find those empowering “ah-ha” moments together!

    IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:

    Why matching the volume of your students can backfire and lead to more disruptionHow talking while expecting students to focus on independent work sends mixed signalsWhy handing out materials during instruction can undo your efforts to get students to listenThe impact of non-verbal cues and mixed messaging in your classroom managementPractical tips to reduce low-level behaviours and increase student focus

    I hope this episode gives you some clarity and maybe even a few "ah-ha" moments! Remember, every teacher—myself included—has fallen into these traps at some point. The important thing is that you’re aware, and with just a few small tweaks, you can start seeing big shifts in your classroom.

    Please don’t feel like you have to be perfect! Teaching is all about growing, learning, and adjusting as we go. If any of these points hit home for you, take it as a sign of progress, not a failure. You’ve got this!

    And if you’re ready to dive deeper and tackle low-level behaviours head-on, I’d love to have you join me in the Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp. Together, we’ll work on building a calm, effective teaching presence that fits your natural style, so you can stop feeling overwhelmed and start feeling empowered. You’re already doing amazing things in the classroom, and th

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • In today’s episode, I’m diving deep into the frustration of low-level behaviours in the classroom—why they are so tricky to handle and why the advice out there often falls flat.

    This is episode 1 of a big focus on low-level behaviours this month, so be sure to follow along for the rest if this is a big challenge for you in your practice!

    IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:

    My personal experiences with low-level behaviours and why I’m so passionate about this topic - hellooooo shaking our confidence and fuelling feelings of hopelessness!The flawed advice (that's putting it kindly) teachers often receive around handling low-level disruptions and why it doesn't work. After all, we can't make 30 phone calls a day, and we are TRYING to engage them!What actually defines a low-level behaviour and why these behaviours fall into a “grey area.”What you can do differently to break the cycle of frustration and regain control in your classroom.

    By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer understanding of why low-level behaviors are so hard to tackle and a few actionable insights to start making a real change in your classroom.

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • BY POPULAR DEMAND: You can grab the task card template here!

    Classroom management is more than just the behaviour, and dealing with low-level disruptive behaviours NEEDS to be more than this to be effective!

    In this episode, I'll be exploring (well... more like nerding out on) a simple yet incredibly effective tool to help manage and reduce low-level behaviours in the classroom: the humble task card. I know, I know, but stay with me here.

    Many factors contribute to disruptive behaviours, but by using task cards, you can provide clarity, structure, and support that helps students stay on task and reduce stress.

    IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:

    The common reasons behind low-level behaviours, such as students being in a fight, flight, or freeze state, lack of clarity, or low confidence.How task cards can reduce these behaviours by providing clear expectations, breaking tasks into manageable steps, and offering scaffolding for students.Key components of a well-presented task card, including success criteria, checklists, time frames, and prompts.How task cards promote student autonomy and reduce teacher input while boosting engagement.The benefits for both students and teachers when task cards are used effectively.Resources and templates available for Behaviour Club members to easily implement task cards in their classrooms.

    By the end of this episode, you'll understand how task cards can transform your classroom management and why they are such a game-changer in addressing low-level behaviours.

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • Click here to access your free session on the barriers to giving a task that students get (and get on with)

    In today’s episode, I’m unpacking why students might not be listening or following your task instructions. Picture this: hands shoot up, students ask, “What are we doing?” or they sit there doodling, lost in confusion. What’s going on here? I’ll explore the reasons behind this and how understanding them is key to solving the problem.

    Here’s what I’ll cover:

    The assumptions we make that lead to miscommunication.How students’ unique contexts impact their understanding.The importance of clarity in instructions and where we often go wrong.Strategies to make learning visible and consistent in your classroom.Practical tools like timers, checklists, and scaffolds that can transform how students follow instructions.

    Want to know a win-win?

    Overcoming these barriers naturally addresses student disengagement, reduces low-level behaviours, and mitigates dysregulated behaviours. The magic of a holistic approach to classroom management!!

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • In this episode, I’m diving into three common pieces of behaviour and classroom management advice that teachers are often given and why we need to stop offering them—at least in the way they’re typically presented.

    These bits of advice are frequently thrown around without any meaningful support or practical steps, making them more harmful than helpful. I’ve heard them time and again from colleagues, experts, and social media, but the reality is that they’re often oversimplified and lacking real substance.

    IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:

    Why “make your lesson more engaging” can set teachers up to fail without the right strategiesThe complexities of building student relationships and why it’s more than just “getting to know them”The challenges of “not taking it personally” and how to actually protect your peace in tough situationsWhat advice we should be giving instead and how to better support teachers

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • In this episode, I dive into one of the toughest challenges we face as teachers—how to manage a classroom full of students when dysregulated behaviours start bubbling up and escalating. I talk about the key things to remember when students are dysregulated and can’t reason with us, and share my CARE Framework—a practical approach for responding to these situations. The goal? For you to be equipped with actionable classroom management strategies that are aligned with your values of compassion and kindness.

    What I discuss in this episode:

    The challenges of managing escalated student behaviour, especially when juggling other expectations placed upon us as teachers.Why reasoning or punishing doesn’t work when students are in fight, flight, or freeze mode.The importance of depersonalizing student behaviour by understanding it as a search for safety.The CARE Framework for responding to escalating behaviours:C: Communicate the emotion you see in the student.A: Affirm and attend to the student’s feelings.R: Reassure and support the student to reduce fear and anxiety.E: Empower the student with choices while setting clear limits.

    Resources mentioned in this episode (all accessible from within The Behaviour Club:

    The CARE Framework for de-escalating student behaviour.Masterclass on de-escalating big behavioursSEL lesson on understanding the brainRegulation toolbox for studentsPhone conversation prompts for tough discussions with parents and carers.PEACE process for when behaviours bubble over.

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • The start of a new school year is always a mix of excitement and nerves (the Sunday scaries multiplied times over!!). As teachers, we’re not just thinking about lesson plans and curriculum—we’re setting the stage for a whole year of learning, growth, and relationships. What will our students be like? How will they get along? What will the dynamics be? Will they respond to me? How we kick off this journey can make a huge difference in shaping the classroom environment that we want for the year to come.

    Gone are the days of cringing through icebreakers and stiff introductions. This year, let’s focus on creating a welcoming space where students feel seen, heard, and ready to engage. From establishing a positive classroom culture to setting clear, collaborative expectations, and even getting ahead with parents, every action we take helps build a foundation for a successful year.

    So, how can we make the first days of school truly count?

    This episode covers my top 4 strategies that will leave your students—and you—feeling excited and optimistic about the year ahead.

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • How can you set the tone for an amazing school year without resorting to icebreakers that have your students eyes rolling?

    In this episode, you will learn how to foster genuine connections, and create a positive classroom environment that students are eager to be part of, any day of the school year. Listen in as I explore why typical icebreakers often miss the mark and reveal criteria for activities that spark natural, student-led discussions.

    This episode is packed with insights on creating a classroom culture where students feel safe and excited from day one. So whether you're gearing up for a new year or need a mid-year reset, tune in for tips on building a supportive, engaging classroom community.

    Want to grab the icebreakers mentioned in the episode?

    Find them in The Behaviour Club, or download them separately here on TPT!

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • Let’s talk calm corners.

    They are all the rage, and for good reason.

    When done right, they teach regulation skills and embed these as part of the classroom culture and shared language.

    When students understand more about their brains, they’re more likely to be empowered to manage their behaviours and self-regulate. Yes, even in secondary! Especially in secondary! The teenage years are the biggest time for brain development, second only to when we are developing in the womb up until 2 years of age.

    But a calm corner? Not always a physical and logistical possibility.

    All I could have managed in my tiny first classroom (and many since then) were front-facing rows, or at a stretch a double-U configuration that I would trip over bags to squeeze behind.

    Safe to say that no calm corner was being set up.

    Luckily, a calm corner (ironically) doesn’t need a corner.

    It doesn’t need a comfy beanbag or a box full of magical fidget spinners.

    It doesn’t require teachers to fork out hundreds of their own hard-earned dollars, and it doesn’t require a fancy display.

    Sure, a comfy space would be lovely, but please don’t let it deter you if that’s the furthest thing from a possibility.

    Your classroom might be too small. You might not even have a classroom of your own and need to drag your things from one side of the school to the other five times a day. You might be a casual teacher who’s desperate to implement some of these strategies but doesn’t think it’s possible.

    It is possible. And in this episode, I talk you through 3 steps to take in order to set up a calm CULTURE, not just a calm corner!

    The resources mentioned in today's episode:

    The Behaviour Club: Learn More
    SEL Lesson: Flipping Your Lid
    Regulation Cards: Your calm corner on the go!

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • Let me ask you a question, teacher friend...

    How are you, really?

    I have thought long and hard about how I view teacher wellbeing, what it is, how we get it, and there are so many factors that we need to consider:

    How much autonomy and trust you have.The support you’re getting from leadership.The culture of the school.How empowered you feel in your classroom .How confident and masterful you feel.The opportunities that are afforded to you.How fulfilling you feel the work is.

    But today I wanted to talk about one factor that for me has had the most impact on how I am mentally and emotionally in the day to day in my role as a teacher.

    One thing that has had the biggest impact on how I have been able to develop professionally.

    Our teaching village.

    They say it takes a village as a teacher but what does that mean? It certainly doesn’t just mean having people around us because when I felt my lowest in teaching, I had PLENTY of teachers around me.

    For me having a village as a teacher needs to be about having like-minded people around us that we can trust to be vulnerable with, ask questions to, bounce ideas off, be inspired and empowered by (and empower them in return). To be able to access support in whatever form needed. To never have your struggles minimised or shrugged off, but heard and validated.

    This was so pivotal for me, that I am changing the way that I support teachers here at The Unteachables Academy. I am making The Behaviour Club, my teaching village, central to what I offer. TBC is a dynamic community where like-minded teachers can connect, share, and grow together. With masterclasses, resources, and a thriving online network, this club is designed to support educators every step of the way.

    Click here to join us and become a member of The Behaviour Club!

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club for no-fluff monthly training, a supportive community of like-minded educators, and done-for-you resources.

    Browse my resources on TPT - All things SEL made with love.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: 'Chats that Create Change' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn