Get a Grip - Evidence-Based Conversations for Parents and Educators

Professor Deirdre Hughes OBE is one of the UK’s leading experts in careers education. She chats to us about how we can better support young people to enter the world of work. Drawing on over 30 years of research and policy experience, Professor Hughes explores why early, inclusive and aspirational careers education matters, and how parents, schools and technology all have a role to play. From the importance of everyday role models to the rise of AI-powered tools like the CiCi chatbot, this episode offers practical insights for educators and families alike.

Professor Harriet Over is a developmental and social psychologist at the University of York and lead of the EU-funded HATESHIELD Project, which will explore online misogyny and its growing impact on teens. From the influence of the manosphere on young people, to the real-life challenges faced by teachers, this conversation explore both research and possible responses and is essential listening for teachers and parents.

In this episode, we chat with Kyleigh Melville, a PhD candidate at the University of Edinburgh and experienced SEND educator, about the power and potential of multi-sensory environments in schools. Drawing on her research and frontline experience, Kyleigh explores how these spaces can support neurodivergent students, the importance of co-design and staff training, and provides some practical tips for getting started. The conversation also touches on LEGO-based therapy and why inclusive, student-informed practice is key to meaningful outcomes.

Roxana Pomplun, who has recently passed her PhD viva, is our Researcher of the Month for June 2025. Her research focuses on how a group of younger adolescents (11-13 years old) interact with algorithmically curated social media like TikTok and YouTube Shorts during this critical stage of brain development. Through interviews with 19 participants, Roxana uncovered these young people's complex perceptions of the emotional impacts of algorithmically curated feeds, and explored the self-regulating strategies that they subconsciously use to manage their social media use. Learn about her fascinating findings here.

Educator and social scientist joins us to chat about his new book Masculinities in Schools, which aims to help schools and teachers grow their confidence in exploring masculinities with young people. We know that teachers are struggling with issues and conversations around masculinities. How do we discuss problem areas associated with masculinities, without demonising the young men we are engaging with? How do we create safe spaces for young people to discuss and challenge their masculinities together? If you feel confused about where to start, tune in to find out more. 

What does it mean to be a good enough parent in a world full of pressure, perfectionism and parenting ideals? In this warm conversation, Dr Cassie Rhodes is joined by clinical psychologist and bestselling author Dr Tara Porter to explore the messy, complex and rewarding reality of parenting. Drawing on her new book, Good Enough: A Framework for Modern Parents, Dr Porter shares reflections from over 30 years as a clinical psychologist and her own experiences as a mother of three, unpacking the core principles of good enough parenting, connection, balanced expectations and the courage to let go.

Sensory needs are being recognised as a vital part of learning, development and engagement within the classroom. Kim, an occupational therapist, with 20 year's experience supporting sensory needs, talks through how teachers might identify sensory needs and how to use sensory tools effectively in the classroom.

Our latest Researcher of the Month, Dr Victoria Goodyear, is challenging policymakers and educators to move past simple smartphone bans in schools. In this thought-provoking interview, she shares the latest findings from her NIHR-funded SMART Schools Study, which reveals that restrictive phone policies alone do not improve adolescent mental health or reduce overall phone use. Dr Goodyear calls for a rights-based, education-led approach, empowering young people with the skills, agency and support they need to navigate digital spaces safely and meaningfully.

We chat to one of the world's leading experts on men, masculinities, gender, and violence prevention. In this wide-ranging interview, Professor Michael Flood shares decades of insight into how we can foster healthier relationships, challenge gender stereotypes, and meaningfully prevent violence against women and girls. Drawing on extensive scholarship and frontline advocacy, Professor Flood offers evidence-based, practical advice for educators and parents, capturing key messages and actionable guidance for supporting boys and young men to grow into respectful, responsible and resilient adults.

Thinking about talking to children if you or a close loved one has been diagnosed with a serious illness may feel very difficult and it’s completely understandable to want to protect them from pain. However, we know that being open and honest is important for their mental health. Professor Louise Dalton joins us to chat about her work on this important issue, one which touches many families. It also contains advice for schools supporting pupils.