Thinking Deeply about Primary Education

By Kieran MackleEducation

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Typical duration
57 min
per episode

Based on Podcast App listening data

Thinking Deeply about Primary Education episodes

January 04, 2025Beyond Words: The Purpose and Practice of Modern Foreign Language Education
Episode 210: This week on Thinking Deeply about Primary Education, I'm joined by primary teacher, Charle Benkowitz, as we delve into the teaching of modern foreign languages in UK schools. From systemic differences with European neighbours to the broader purpose of language learning, this episode offers insights into how we can elevate language education for primary students.
We discuss:
How UK schools compare with European counterparts in language education and the impact on proficiency.

The purpose of language learning for UK students in a globally English-speaking world.

Effective teaching strategies for language acquisition and how they could be implemented in UK primary schools.

The critical role of time allocation and curriculum design in achieving language learning success.
Whether you’re a language specialist or exploring ways to incorporate foreign languages into your teaching, this episode offers practical ideas and thought-provoking perspectives.
If you enjoy this episode, please support us by subscribing to our YouTube channel, leaving a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, or making a donation via www.ko-fi.com/tdape. Join our community on Discord to share your thoughts and insights!
50 min
January 01, 2025 What are the four most prominent features of an effective lesson?
From the Archives 001:
In this episode of Thinking Deeply about Primary Education we're diving into the archives to retrieve some of the most inspirational responses to questions posed over the last few years. This week, Lloyd Williams Jones shares the four most prominent features of his lessons, along with his thoughts on effective teaching. This was the very first question I asked on TDaPE and I wonder if Lloyd has changed his mind on anything over the last four years. I'll ask him to share his thoughts in the comments, and it would be great if you could do the same.

If you're looking for the full episode, it's (S1,E1) Pedagogy and Research with Lloyd Williams-Jones and it can be found here on Spotify, here on Apple Podcasts and here on YouTube.
12 min
December 28, 2024 Unlocking Learning: Background Knowledge, Spelling, and Modelling
Episode 209: This week on Thinking Deeply about Primary Education, we revisit three of the most impactful questions from some of our most-listened episodes of 2024. Covering essential topics like the role of background knowledge in reading, effective spelling instruction, and the power of modelling, this episode provides interesting perspectives on the fundamentals of great teaching.
If you’re looking to strengthen your teaching with insights grounded in research and practice, this episode is not to be missed.
If you enjoy this episode, please support us by subscribing to our YouTube channel, leaving a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, or making a donation via www.ko-fi.com/tdape.

Join our vibrant community on Discord to share your thoughts and explore unseen questions!
53 min
December 21, 2024 Transforming Reading and Mathematics: Powerful Questions for Teachers
Episode 208: This week on Thinking Deeply about Primary Education, we revisit some of the most impactful questions from our four most-listened episodes. From the essentials of teaching multiplication tables to the intricacies of supporting struggling readers, these conversations have shaped the way teachers approach their craft.
Whether you’re new to the podcast or returning to hear these transformative ideas through a fresh lens, this episode will provide invaluable takeaways for your teaching journey.
If you enjoy this episode, please support us by subscribing to our YouTube channel, leaving a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, or making a donation via www.ko-fi.com/tdape. You can also join our growing community on Discord, where we discuss unseen questions, episode insights, and more!
52 min
December 14, 2024Promise or Peril: Can AI shape the future of education?
Episode 207: In this episode of Thinking Deeply about Primary Education, I’m joined by Dominic Bristow and Hannah Gillott to discuss the potential for meaningful use of AI in education. Together, we examine its promises, pitfalls, and practical applications for classroom settings.
We explore:
Whether AI has the power to genuinely improve teacher practice.

How schools and teachers can avoid falling for costly gimmicks and repackaged tools.

Key flags to watch out for when investing in AI solutions.

The areas where AI could offer the greatest gains in the next 18 months to 2 years.
If you’ve been curious about AI’s impact on education or want to navigate this space effectively, this episode offers insights that are both practical and forward-looking.
If you enjoy this episode, please support us by subscribing to our YouTube channel, leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (wherever you listen), or making a donation via www.ko-fi.com/tdape. Have questions or comments? Join our Discord server, where you’ll find a special channel for unseen question submissions!
57 min
December 07, 2024Exploring Explicit Teaching with Zach Groshell
Episode 206: This week on Thinking Deeply about Primary Education, I’m joined by Chris Such and Zach Groshell, teacher, researcher, and advocate for evidence-based teaching. Together, we delve into explicit and direct instruction its foundations, its misconceptions, and its future in education.
In this episode, we discuss:
Zach’s journey into explicit teaching and how his perspective has evolved.

How to address criticisms that explicit teaching stifles creativity and autonomy.

The characteristics of truly effective explanations and how teachers can master this skill.

Misconceptions about explicit teaching and strategies for overcoming them.

What the future might hold for evidence-based teaching approaches.

Whether you’re an experienced teacher or new to explicit teaching, this episode provides valuable insights to challenge assumptions, refine your practice, and inspire your approach to instruction.
If you enjoy this episode, please support us by subscribing to our YouTube channel, leaving a review on Apple Podcasts, or making a donation via Ko-fi.
You can pick up your copy of Just Tell Them: The Power of Explanations and Explicit Instruction here and tickets for the upcoming TDaPE conference here - tickets for the conference close in around 4 weeks, so get yours while you can...
If you have any questions or comments, join our Discord server, where we have a special channel for unseen question submissions.
55 min
November 30, 2024 What's in Store at TDaPE London?
Episode 205: This week on Thinking Deeply about Primary Education, Elliot Morgan and I dive into what’s in store at the upcoming TDaPE London Conference on Saturday, 18th January 2025.
We explore the talks, themes, and workshops that will bring together educators passionate about primary education, with practical insights to enhance teaching and learning. From mathematics to professional development, the conference promises a day packed with inspiration and actionable ideas.
💡 Join us in person for thought-provoking discussions, collaborative workshops, and a chance to connect with like-minded professionals.

📅 18th January 2025 | Bishop Justus School, Bromley | 9:30am–2:30pm

🎟️ Book your place here

All profits from the event will go to Velindre Cancer Centre. Don’t miss out—secure your spot today!

If you enjoy this episode, please support us by subscribing to our YouTube channel, leaving a review on Apple Podcasts, or making a donation via Ko-fi.
If you have any questions or comments, join our Discord server, where we have a special channel for unseen question submissions.
43 min
November 23, 2024Building Confidence in Primary Mathematics with Amy How
Episode 204: This week on Thinking Deeply about Primary Education, I’m joined by Amy How to explore primary mathematics and how teachers can build their confidence in delivering impactful lessons. We discuss the essential areas of mathematics that help pupils develop a deep understanding, and Amy shares insights into how the Rekenrek can be used as a powerful tool to support mathematical thinking.
In this episode, we cover:
Why mathematics education is critical for pupils' long-term success.

Key mathematical concepts that form the foundation of strong understanding.

How the Rekenrek can enhance pupils’ mathematical sense-making.

Practical advice for teachers new to using the Rekenrek, including resources and starting points.

Whether you’re new to teaching mathematics or looking to strengthen your confidence, this episode is packed with insights to help you and your pupils succeed.
If you enjoy this episode, please support us by subscribing on YouTube, leaving a review on Apple Podcasts, or making a donation at www.ko-fi.com/tdape. Join our Discord community to continue the conversation!

Join Amy live at TDaPELondon: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-thinking-deeply-about-primary-education-conference-tickets-1033614898987?aff=oddtdtcreator
46 min
November 16, 2024Lesson Design – Insights from Cognitive Science and Direct Instruction with Jake Cowling
Episode 203: In this episode of Thinking Deeply about Primary Education, I’m joined by teacher Jake Cowling to delve into the intricacies of lesson design. Drawing on cognitive science and principles of explicit and direct instruction, we discuss how intentional lesson planning can transform teaching and learning.
We explore:
What lesson design really means and its role in effective teaching.

The foundational concepts teachers need to grasp to approach lesson design meaningfully.

The challenges and rewards of implementing this approach in the classroom.

How students and teachers alike benefit from research-informed lesson design.

Whether you’re refining your own lesson planning or seeking fresh perspectives on structuring learning, this episode offers practical insights for educators at all stages of their careers.
If you enjoy this episode, please support us by subscribing on YouTube, leaving a review on Apple Podcasts, or making a donation at www.ko-fi.com/tdape. Join our Discord community to continue the conversation!
Don't forget to get your tickets for the TDaPE Conference on January 18th: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-thinking-deeply-about-primary-education-conference-tickets-1033614898987?aff=oddtdtcreator
38 min
November 09, 2024 Powerful RE with Adam Smith
Episode 202: In this episode of Thinking Deeply about Primary Education, we’re joined by primary teacher and leader, Adam Smith for a thought-provoking talk on Powerful Religious Education
Set in the context of broader discussions of curriculum, Adam shares his thoughts on the place, purpose and power of religious education, as well as the thinking de does as part of his approach to the planning and teaching of RE lessons.
Whether you’re passionate about teaching RE or looking for ways to deepen your pupils’ engagement, this episode offers valuable insights for making RE a powerful part of the primary curriculum.
If you enjoy the episode, support us by subscribing on YouTube, leaving a review on Apple Podcasts, or making a donation at www.ko-fi.com/tdape. Join our Discord community to continue the conversation!
1 hr 1 min

About Thinking Deeply about Primary Education

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to Thinking Deeply about Primary Education, the podcast that gives you a peek inside the minds of some truly inspirational primary teachers. Whether you're new to the profession or a school…