School Behaviour Secrets with Simon Currigan and Emma Shackleton
Are you a teacher, a SENCo or a school leader?Want research-backed strategies for supporting students who find it hard to manage their emotions or behaviour? Want practical ways of supporting pupils with special needs like autism, ADHD, FASD or attachment disorder? Want tried-and-tested classroom management strategies that will work with that ‘tricky class’?Then you’re in the right place.Welcome to the School Behaviour Secrets podcast where we’ll answer ALL these questions and so much more! Week after week, your hosts Simon Currigan and Emma Shackleton share the secrets to behaviour success that every teacher and school leader s...
The Myth of 1:1 Support: Why 1:1 Support Isn’t Always the Answer for SEMH Success in Schools
Are one-to-one teaching assistants really the best way to support students with SEMH needs?
In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we explore the myth of 1:1 support and its unintended consequences for schools and students.
Discover why this topic resonates with teachers and SENCOs working to support pupils with a high level of need and how rethinking your approach could empower independence and resilience in a more sustainable way.
Important links:
CHECK OUT BEHAVIOUR 360 today if you want a joined up approach to SEMH in your school, with instant...
Is Bullying A Form Of Trauma? Insights From Kidscape's New Research (With Paula Timms & Nathalie Noret)
Should bullying be viewed as trauma? In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we speak with guests Paula Timms and Nathalie Noret from Kidscape about groundbreaking research on the lasting impact caused by bullying.
Discover how trauma-informed practices can transform how schools support students, reduce harm, and challenge misconceptions about bullying. Tune in for practical strategies every teacher, school leader, and parent needs to know.
Important links:
Explore Kidscape’s resources and research by visiting their website.
Download our FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk...
Relationships First: Rethinking Behaviour Policies in Schools (With Stephen Steinhaus)
Are you struggling with behaviour in your school or feeling a disconnect between staff and students? Then this episode is for you!
Join us as we sit down with guest Stephen Steinhaus to unpack how relational behaviour policies, with a focus on relationships – not just rules - can raise standards, improve behaviour, and transform teaching in your school.
Important links:
Get our FREE Classroom Management Scoresheet HERE!
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook
Download other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: ht...
SEND At Breaking Point: Educational Psychologists Sound The Alarm On Support In Schools (With Dr. Gavin Morgan)
Educational psychologists play a vital role in supporting students’ special educational needs and mental health. Yet, a recent British Psychological Society report reveals that many EPs feel the SEND system is broken and unable to meet students' needs.
Join this week’s School Behaviour Secrets as we join Dr. Gavin Morgan to discuss how funding cuts, high caseloads, and a shortage of educational psychologists are impacting our vulnerable students, and what needs to be done to ensure every child has a fair chance to succeed.
Important links:
To read the report by T...
Unseen Struggles: The Surprising Link Between Pain And Neurodivergence (With Jane Green)
What if neurodivergent students' behaviours were actually signals of physical pain?
In this thought-provoking episode, Jane Green, MBE, a passionate advocate for neurodivergent individuals, explains the surprising connection between physical pain and neurodivergence in young people.
Jane explains how physical symptoms, like fatigue and chronic pain, can impact classroom behaviour, performance and attendance, and urges educators to consider these unseen factors when supporting neurodivergent students.
Important links:
Visit the SEDSConnective website here!
To read Jane's article on Co-Occurring Physical Health Challenges In Neurodivergent Children access this link.<...
Creating Inclusive Schools: The Neuro Ambassadors' Programme Explained! (With Melissa Leggett)
Looking for ways to support neurodivergent pupils? Do you want to inspire change in schools for a brighter future?
In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we interview Melissa Leggett, founder of the Neuro Ambassadors' programme. Discover how this groundbreaking initiative is supporting neurodivergent pupils, helping them flourish, and fostering acceptance in schools.
Important links:
Visit the Neuro Inclusion Website UK here!
Connect with Melissa through Instagram
Or on Facebook!
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook
Download other...
Quick-Fire Strategies: Small Mindset Shifts - Big Classroom Wins!
Are you struggling with a class that feels completely out of control? Is this making you feel stressed?
It can be easy to feel like classroom behaviour problems are happening 'to' you, and there's little you can do to make an impact...
So, in this week's episode of School Behaviour Secrets we share a simple change in mindset that can help you take back control, get unstuck, and making progress with your students again. Join us to discover how taking small, intentional actions can lead to big improvements in your classroom!
Important...
Essentials: The Hidden Cost of Bullying - Uncovering the Brain's Response to Abuse
What's the real cost of bullying on a child's health?
In this week's episode, we talk to Jessica Fraser about the powerful link between emotional trauma and brain health.
Together, we explore how this understanding can transform the way schools approach bullying, offering fresh strategies to protect children and support their emotional and physical development.
Important links:
Click here to hear all of episode 85
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook
Download other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https...
Helping Teachers Thrive: Strategies for Managing Tough Classes (with Jessica Werner)
Are you struggling with a tough class? Feeling overwhelmed as a result?
Join us and guest expert Jessica Werner, as we share practical strategies for turning around difficult classrooms, managing stress, and building strong relationships with challenging students.
Learn essential tips for helping teachers thrive under pressure and regain control.
Important links:
Visit the Northshore Learning website here.
Or send Jessica a quick email at: jess.northshore@gmail.com
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook
And download our...
Essentials: How To Manage Chatty Classes
Are you working with a chatty class? Are you finding the noise overwhelming and feeling frustrated that valuable learning time is being lost?
In this week's episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we'll share some of our top tips for managing talkative classes, without squashing their enthusiasm for learning!
Important links:
Click here to hear all of episode 80
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook
Download other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources.php
Join the conversation…. Prioritising Well-Being - Strategies for Educators Facing Burnout! (With Kate Whittlesey)
Do you feel that your role in education is taking a toll on your mental health?
In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we discuss burnout and the crucial importance of self-care for educators. Join us as we talk to Kate Whittlesey about effective strategies for teachers and school leaders to prioritise their well-being and stay at the top of their game.
Important links:
Visit the SEND Advisory Team website for advice and information.
Here's one link to find out more about the Circles of Influence
...and...
Essentials: Improve Your De-Escalation Skills with This Simple Mindset Shift
Whilst every pupil's needs are unique, there's one key mindset shift that can enhance your de-escalation skills.
In this week's episode, we uncover this mindset shift and show you how to apply it when handling student meltdowns or anger outbursts. You'll learn how to reduce distress, minimize disruption to classroom learning and feel in control.
Important links:
Click here to hear all of episode 57
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook
Download other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co...
Empowering Educators: Supporting Students at Risk of Criminal Exploitation (With Desmond Skyers and Steve Warner)
Do you suspect a student might be at risk of criminal exploitation? Have you noticed changes in a student's behaviour or peer group?
Recognising the signs early is crucial to making a positive impact... Join us for our latest podcast episode as we discuss the urgent issue of youth violence and gang involvement. Hear insights from Desmond Skyers and Steve Warner of St Giles Trust on how educators can make a difference.
Important links:
Visit the St Giles SOS+ Service Website if you need advice.
Use: Steve.Warner@StGilesTrust...
Essentials: Restorative Practice In Schools - Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Are you using, or thinking about introducing, restorative practice in your school?
When done right, it teaches conflict resolution and encourages positive behaviour. But if not introduced effectively, it can erode trust. Discover our top tips for success!
Important links:
Click here to hear all of episode 55
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook
Download other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources.php
Why Kids Get Excluded From School (And What We Can Do About It)
In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we explore the rise in suspensions and permanent exclusions, revealing the most common causes.
Learn proactive strategies to reduce exclusions and download our free Exclusions Checklist for practical, needs-led behaviour support. Let's create more inclusive schools!
Important links:
To download our FREE Reducing Exclusion Checklist.
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook
Download other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources.php
Essentials: Connection Before Correction - A Key Strategy for SEMH Success (With Adele Bates)
There's been a concerning rise in children facing SEMH challenges in schools. So, how can teachers and educators effectively empathize with these students and build trustful relationships?
In this episode of the podcast, we speak with Adele Bates, SEMH behaviour specialist and author of 'Miss, I Don't Give a Sh*t! - Engaging with Challenging Behaviour in Schools. Adele shares her expert insights on addressing challenging behaviour and the importance of forming meaningful connections with students.
Important links:
Click here to hear all of episode 54
Get our FREE SEND...
The Impact Of Adaptive Teaching On Pupils With SEMH Needs With George Athanasiou
In this episode of the School Behaviour Secrets podcast, we interview educational expert George Athanasiou to discuss the power of adaptive teaching strategies.
Discover how flexible and multisensory approaches can dramatically boost student engagement, reduce behavioural issues, and improve outcomes for all learners, especially those with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.
Important links:
Here's the link for George's TikTok account
Visit George Athanasiou's website here
And finally, to head over to George's LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-athanasiou-5997a7171/
Get our...
Essentials: Hidden Challenges: How Language Processing Issues Affect Student Behaviour and Learning
Did you know language processing disorders can be a major driver of challenging classroom behaviour?
Often overlooked, but critical in supporting students with special needs, we look into how difficulties with understanding and expressing language affect students' emotions and actions. Effective support can make all the difference.
Tune in to the School Behaviour Secrets Podcast for valuable insights that could transform your teaching!
Important links:
Click here to hear all of episode 29
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook
Download other...
How To Quickly Identify SEMH Needs In School Children
For the first time on School Behaviour Secrets we are sharing our podcast on the usual audio format as well as on YouTube as a video podcast. So, if you're someone who prefers to watch rather than listen, you've now got the option of doing either.
In today's special podcast, we're exploring one of the most critical issues affecting students - how to quickly and effectively identify pupils with social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs. Whether you're a teacher or a school leader, understanding SEMH is crucial to supporting your students and ensuring no child slips...
School Behaviour Secrets' New Format Unveiled!
What's the future looking like for the School Behaviour Secrets podcast?
In this preview episode, we unveil the exciting new direction for the podcast. From offering video content to ensuring solo episodes are packed with essential strategies for classroom success, these changes are designed to help you get the most out of your time while supporting the social and emotional needs of your students.
Important links:
If you want to get in touch to share your thoughts, here's my email: simon@beaconschoolsupport.co.uk
How To Write A Successful Pupil Regulation Plan
Are you working with students who frequently get dysregulated in school, lose control of their emotions, and find it hard to use agreed strategies for sustained behaviour change?
In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we uncover the core elements of effective regulation plans. From identifying triggers to rehearsing new behaviours, learn practical strategies that foster self-regulation and academic success.
Important links:
Get your FREE Beacon School Support guide to helping children manage their strong emotions
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook
...
Essentials: Practical Applications Of Virtual Reality For Reducing Pupil Anxiety
Imagine a classroom where students step into virtual worlds to learn essential social skills and prepare for life's challenges. This vision is becoming a reality through the power of virtual reality (VR).
In our latest podcast episode, Ange Anderson, headteacher of an innovative special school in Wales, discusses how VR technology is reshaping educational practices.
Join us as we explore how VR can help prepare young people for real life situations and how technology can make life in school easier for everyone.
Important links:
Click to view Ange's Website...
ADHD in Focus: Strategies for Classroom Success With Abby Moehringer
In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we ask: What are the most effective strategies for helping students with ADHD in the classroom?
Our guest, ADHD expert Abby Moehringer, shares practical ideas, tips, and strategies to help students with ADHD get on top of strong emotions and stay regulated in class. Tune in as we explore proactive approaches that you can implement today!
Important links:
To visit Abby's website: Mrs Moes Modifications
Click here to download Abby's FREE visual calming tool.
To access links to Abby's social...
Essentials: Pro Regulation - Helping Students Understand And Manage Their ‘Big’ Emotions
Are you supporting children who frequently lose self-control when faced with big emotions like anger and anxiety?
In this Essentials episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we introduce the concept of pro regulation - a proactive approach to emotional management. Learn how to help your students recognise and act on their feelings before they escalate, ensuring a calmer and more controlled classroom environment.
Important links:
Click here to hear all of episode 91
Get your FREE Beacon School Support guide to helping children manage their strong emotions
Get our...
Autistic And OK (With Joss Lambert and Lily Ashby)
We want our schools to be welcoming, inclusive places where everyone feels okay about being in school. But for many autistic pupils, that isn't the case. So how do we help?
That's the focus for this episode of the School Behaviour Secrets podcast, where we join Joss Lambert and Lily Ashby from the Autistic And OK Programme. They explain the challenges faced by neurodiverse students and what schools can do to help autistic pupils feel accepted and understood.
Important links:
To find out more about the Autistic And OK Programme click...
Essentials: Recognising The Differences Between Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD) and Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)isode
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Pathological Demand Avoidance syndrome (PDA) can look similar, but they're actually very different.
In this Essentials Episode of School Behaviour Secrets we explore key differences between ODD and PDA, because understanding these conditions is crucial so you can adopt the correct strategies to provide effective pupil support.
Important links:
Click here to hear all of episode 93
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook
Download other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources.php<...
How Social Scripts Can Transform Pupil Behaviour (With Sue Larkey)
Are you searching for effective ways to support students who struggle with social interactions? Social scripts could be the game-changer you've been looking for!
In this week's episode of School Behaviour Secrets we sit down with guest expert, Sue Larkey. Discover how tailored scripts can help students navigate social interactions effectively, foster independence and confidence, and create a supportive environment for neurodiverse learners.
Important links:
Visit Sue Larkey's website here
The link you will need for Sue's downloadable PDF on social scripts
And to head over to...
Essentials: Understanding the Significance of "Masking" Behaviour in Classroom Settings
Many kids with autism become experts at "masking" their true feelings and needs. This can be helpful in the short term, but over time, it can leave them feeling drained and exhausted.
So, if you're ready to find out more about supporting children with masking behaviours, then join us for the latest School Behaviour Secrets podcast.
Important links:
Click here to hear all of episode 87
Amanda Sokell's website Navigating Neurodiversity.
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook
Download other FREE behaviour...
Developmental Language Disorder - What Teachers And Parents Need To Know (With Tiffany Voigt)
In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we explore Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) with Tiffany Voigt, experienced speech and language pathologist from eLuma.
We cover the hidden challenges faced by students with DLD, and how these affect their learning and behaviour. Discover why early intervention and targeted support are crucial, and learn practical strategies so you can support students with DLD effectively.
Important links:
Click here to find out more about the support available at eLuma.
eLuma online speech therapy.
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https...
Essentials: Reduce Bullying By Building A Positive School Culture (With Alex Holmes)
Are you looking for ways to empower your students to stand up against bullying?
In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we sit down with Alex Holmes, Deputy CEO of the Diana Award and Vice Chair of the National Anti-Bullying Alliance, to explore innovative strategies for student involvement in anti-bullying initiatives.
Important links:
Click here to hear all of episode 83
Get your FREE Beacon School Support guide to helping children manage their strong emotions
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook
...
Creative Approaches To Help Children Experiencing Sadness (With Clare Williams)
In this week's episode of School Behaviour Secrets we explore how to support pupils who are experiencing long term persistent feelings of sadness with our guest Clare Williams (co-author and co-creator of Jigsaw PSHE, and author of the Hamish and Milo well-being resources).
We discuss the crucial role adults play in supporting students experiencing feelings of sadness, and share invaluable insights into fostering compassionate relationships and creating safe havens where students feel seen, heard, and understood.
Important links:
To find out more about Clare's Hamish and Milo well-being resources.
...
Essentials: Understanding The Science Behind ADHD Medication With Dr. Walt Karniski
Deciding whether to medicate your child for ADHD is hard. How can you be sure it's the right call?
This week on the School Behaviour Secrets podcast, we tackle this critical question with developmental paediatrician and author Dr. Walt Karniski. Together we discuss common myths about ADHD medication and explain how these treatments affect the brain to help you make a more informed choice for your child's well-being.
Important links:
Click here to hear all of episode 81
Download Dr Walt Karniski's book here: ADHD Medication: Does It Work And...
Using The PACE Approach For Effective Behaviour Management
Are you working with pupils with a history of trauma in your classroom and their behaviour is often heightened, unpredictable, and difficult to manage? Are you ready to try a different approach?
This week we explore a strategy for managing confrontations with students displaying challenging behaviour known as PACE. Developed by Dan Hughes in America, PACE is all about building empathy and relationships, to help kids learn to regulate and function successfully in school.
Important links:
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook
Download other <...
Quick-Fire Strategies: The De-Escalation Danger Zone
If you've ever found yourself in a situation where you have to de-escalate a heightened student, you'll know that it's hard work, it's super stressful for everyone.
In this episode I'm going to talk through 3 key de-escalation concepts (the anger cycle, the de-escalation danger zone, and the valley of despair) that are essential to know for helping heightened pupils get back on top of their emotions.
Important links:
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook
Download other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https...
Essentials: Understanding Children With Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA)
In the past, children who struggle to attend school have been described as 'school refusers,' implying that their behaviour stems from wilfulness. But is it time to rethink this perspective and explore other underlying causes?
Join us as Jerricah Holder delves into the concept of Emotionally Based School Avoidance. She'll reveal why this way of looking at school refusal can be more insightful, uncovering the real reasons behind school avoidance so that strategies to support these children are more likely to be effective.
Important links:
Jerricah's School Based Well-being Cards<...
Using The Boxall Profile To Shape Social, Emotional and Mental Health Support In Schools (With Arti Sharma)
Are you searching for ways to support your students' social, emotional, and mental health needs in the classroom? Or have you put interventions in place to support a child and you need a way of systematically assessing whether they're having an impact?
Then join us today as we sit down with Arti Sharma from Nurture UK to discuss how the Boxall Profile can be used in schools to identify underlying SEMH needs, track progress and unlock student potential.
Important links:
Visit Nurture UK
To find out more about The...
Essentials: Unlocking Potential - Strategies to Overcome Work Refusal in the Classroom
Are you working with a pupil who just won't complete their work? Then it's time to start thinking about what could be behind their reluctance.
As teachers, deciphering these signals is crucial to offering effective support in getting pupils beyond task avoidance. Join us for this episode of School Behaviour Secrets as we explore work refusal in the classroom. From understanding the signs to identifying the underlying reasons, we'll equip you with actionable strategies to support your students today.
Important links:
Click here to hear all of episode 75
Get...
An Emotions-Led Approach To Tackling Bullying In Schools (With Alain Pelletier)
As any educator knows, the battle against bullying is ongoing, and the moment we become complacent, cases tend to rise. But what if we could address bullying at its emotional core? In this week's episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we explore just that.
Join us with guest speaker Alain Pelletier as we discuss how to enable students to grasp the true impact of bullying and reject it on an emotional level.
Important links:
Visit Alain's website.
Get your FREE Beacon School Support guide to helping children manage their strong...
Essentials: Is Mindfulness Effective In Helping Children Handle Their Emotions?
Are you looking for innovative ways to support your students' social and emotional well-being? Want to create a more inclusive and nurturing learning environment?
Join us in our latest essentials episode of School Behaviour Secrets as we explore the fundamentals of mindfulness and in particular reviewing the scientific research into its application and success with children so that you can consider its application in your classroom.
Important links:
Click here to hear all of episode 64
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook
Download...
Why Kids Find It Hard To Escape Anxiety
Are you struggling to support students dealing with anxiety in your school? You're not alone. Anxiety among students is a growing concern for parents, educators and school leaders alike. It can significantly impact a student's behaviour, learning, and overall well-being.
In our latest episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we're going to explore why kids find it hard to escape anxiety and what you can do to support them.
Important links:
Get your FREE Beacon School Support guide to helping children manage their strong emotions
Get our FREE SEND Behaviour...
