Teaching Matters hostPaul Hazzard welcomes guestsLucy Newburger (Portugal),John Gibbs (England), andShane Leaning (Shanghai) to discuss:🔅How to bring the fun back to reading after phonics🔅How debate can help your students see their blind spots🔅Bridgette Phillipson's ‘concerned’ about volume of parent complaintsUp for discussion in this episode are:1️⃣Bringing Fun Back to Reading After PhonicsThe panel explores how phonics can sometimes take the joy out of reading. John argues that reading should be about fluency and enjoyment rather than rigid methods. Lucy questions the UK’s focus on ranking reading proficiency, while Shane warns against over-standardising approaches. They discuss how a balanced reading curriculum, like those in Ireland and Singapore, could raise UK literacy standards but caution against turning new methods into rigid frameworks.2️⃣Debating in SchoolsDebate is valuable for critical thinking and confidence, yet it is underused in schools. John highlights its importance for student expression, especially for working-class pupils. Lucy discusses how debate can help students understand multiple perspectives and suggests it should be integrated across subjects. Shane warns that controversial topics can lead to parental complaints, stressing the need for open communication. The panel agrees that structured, well-managed debate is essential but must be handled carefully to avoid backlash.3️⃣Parental Complaints in EducationBridget Phillipson, UK Education Secretary, raises concerns over the growing number of parent complaints but overlooks their impact on teacher wellbeing. Lucy highlights the emotional toll on teachers, while Shane argues that complaints often stem from a lack of trust between schools and parents, worsened by government interference. John critiques the consumer-like relationship between parents and schools, which leads to increased complaints. The panel suggests clear communication and structured complaint processes to foster better relationships.📢Banana TimeShane shares trivia about the Great Wall of China being built with sticky rice, Lucy celebrates simple classroom joys, and John reflects on Nicky Campbell's 'How Boarding Schools Shaped Britain' a BBC R4 programme.TakeawaysReading should be enjoyable and not just about phonics.A balanced approach to reading can improve literacy outcomes.Debate encourages students to see different perspectives.Teachers need support and training to manage debates effectively.Parental complaints can be emotionally taxing for teachers.Building trust with parents is essential for a positive school environment.Schools should have clear processes for handling complaints.Open communication with parents can reduce misunderstandings.Debate can be integrated into various subjects, not just English.The emotional impact of complaints on teachers should be addressed.Sound Bites"How do you put the fun back in reading?""The act of debating is worth it.""Debate is worth the risk for teachers."