School life unpacked

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Join us for a thoughtful conversation with a retired school English teacher as he shares how he inspired reluctant older pupils to rediscover the joy of reading. We explore practical ways to nurture a love of books in young children, and how families and educators can sustain that curiosity, confidence, and lifelong reading habit into the teenage years and adulthood.

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In this episode of School Life Unpacked, we break down the Government’s SEND White Paper reform and what it means for families. From proposed changes to EHCPs to the introduction of Individual Support Plans, we explore the new tiered system, funding commitments, and the concerns parents are raising about legal protections and long-term impact on primary school children.

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In this episode, we chat with Lauren Eve, a passionate KS2 teacher about practical ways to keep children reading. From nurturing a love of books in the early years to making stories exciting and accessible, we explore simple, effective strategies to spark curiosity and build confident, enthusiastic young readers for life.

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Primary school testing can feel bigger than it really is. In this episode of School Life Unpacked  we gently unpacks phonics checks, times tables tests and SATs, exploring what they measure, what happens if children don’t meet the expected standard, and how much they truly matter. A warm, research-informed conversation to help parents support their children with confidence, perspective and calm.

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Breakfast club is often seen as a solution for working parents, but it’s so much more than that. In this episode of School Life Unpacked explores how free breakfast clubs can reduce financial stress, increase access for families in need, and ensure every child starts the school day fed, settled, and ready to learn.

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This episode of School Life Unpacked, explores the growing conversation around mindful and intentional parenting. From understanding children’s behaviour as communication to balancing compassion with clear boundaries, this episode unpacks what it means to parent with awareness, purpose, and connection, while letting go of perfection and embracing growth for both parents and children. 

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This episode is a gentle reminder for parents and caregivers that self-care is not selfish, it’s essential. We explore how nurturing yourself supports your children, why a self-regulated parent creates safety, and how small, realistic moments of care protect your mental health. Because when you care for yourself, you teach your children that they matter too.

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Australia has taken bold steps to restrict social media should the UK follow? In this episode, we explore the arguments for and against banning social media, examining its impact on mental health, free speech, and society. Is regulation enough, or is a full ban the future? Join the debate and decide for yourself.

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Change is hard, especially when we’re navigating it alongside our children. In this episode, we explore how to support kids through transitions with empathy, resilience, and honesty, even when we don’t have it all figured out ourselves. Practical encouragement for parents learning as they go.

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In this episode, we sit down with a local GP to unpick the details of EHCPs and why they matter. We explore how an EHCP differs from SEN support, who it’s for, and why it can be life-changing. Most importantly, we encourage parents not to be disheartened—help, guidance, and support are available.