The midpoint of a teaching placement is where the gloss wears off. The first-week adrenaline is gone, the mentor's feedback is landing harder, and the finish line still feels a long way off. In this episode we talk about what's actually happening at the halfway mark — why the dip is normal, what it means about your progress (usually the opposite of what you fear), and the practical moves that get you to the end of placement stronger than you started. 

For prac students and early career teachers. Turn to Page 53 — kph.com.au

Recently retired teacher Megan shares one of her most effective classroom approaches: giving students choices so they feel ownership and responsibility within the classroom. We also discuss relationships, longevity in teaching and the importance of still finding joy in the work.

In this episode of Turn to Page 53, we look at practical classroom management strategies that help prevent behaviour problems before they begin — from rapport and routines to consistency, engagement and follow-through.

In this episode of Turn to Page 53, we talk about the everyday realities of teaching — managing timetables, lesson timing, organisation, diaries, workload and wellbeing — and the small habits that can make school life far more manageable.

What happens when you are still studying — but already standing in front of a class?

In this episode, I speak with Brad, a mature-aged teacher who came to the profession after working in other roles within schools. We talk about the importance of building rapport with students, making learning relevant, and remembering that as a prac student you are not expected to know everything straight away.

Brad also reflects on the value of experience, confidence, and staying focused on relationships in the classroom.

This episode explores practical classroom realities with an experienced relief teacher, including not taking behaviour personally, reading the “currency of the room,” and recognising professional avoiders.

In this episode of Turn to Page 53, we focus on the common challenges faced by prac students and early career teachers, including time management, communication with mentors, and handling the unexpected in the classroom.

These challenges are a normal part of learning to teach. With practical advice and reassurance, this episode aims to help you stay organised, professional, and confident as you develop your skills in the classroom.

Questions or topics for future episodes are always welcome:

In this episode, we explore what mentors are really looking for during professional practice and how student teachers can make the most of their placement experience.

Whether you are about to begin your first prac or supporting a student teacher, these practical insights will help you approach the experience with confidence.

If you have questions or topics you would like covered in a future episode, you are very welcome to get in touch.

You can contact the podcast at   [email protected]

This podcast is designed to help prac teachers and early career teachers. We will discuss things to help you with your prac experience and also give advice and thoughts for teachers who are early in their careers. We are here to help you. 

You can contact the podcast at [email protected]