In this episode, Chris sits down with educator, author and host of the Thinking Deeply About Primary Education podcast, Kieran Mackle, for a wide-ranging conversation about what genuinely improves mathematics teaching ... and what doesn't.

Together they explore why evidence-informed practice matters more than ever, the danger of chasing educational trends without robust research, and the classroom approaches that consistently make the biggest difference. They also discuss worked examples, cognitive load, mathematical fluency, assessment, mastery and whether AI is solving problems that schools actually have.

Whether you're a primary teacher, school leader or simply interested in how children learn, this episode is a thoughtful reminder that great teaching is built on deep thinking, not quick fixes.

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, one question continues to resonate: what truly drives effective school improvement?

In this episode of the EduPulse podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with teaching and learning expert Yamina Bibi, whose insights provide invaluable guidance for educators and school leaders. This episode will explore key themes from our conversation, covering essential elements of high-quality teaching and the pivotal role of leadership in fostering a culture of improvement.

How to Lead an English Department: Insights from Donal Hale

Learn key strategies for effective English department leadership from Donal Hale, a seasoned educator with extensive experience in curriculum design and teaching. Discover the essential habits, priorities, and approaches that distinguish successful department leads in English education.

Leading an English department can be a daunting task, especially when transitioning from a skilled teacher to a leadership role. In this blog post, we’ll explore insights shared by Donal Hale, a director of literacy and learning, who has navigated these challenges and emerged as a successful leader. You’ll gain valuable strategies on curriculum design, departmental culture, and the importance of consistency in leadership.

About Donal Hale

Donal Hale is an experienced educator with a rich background in English teaching and leadership. Having worked in various educational settings across the UK, he has developed a keen understanding of what makes an effective English curriculum and how to lead a successful department. His expertise lies not only in teaching but also in shaping educational practices that prioritise student learning.

You get a copy of his book from here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Leading-Secondary-English-Donal-Hale/dp/1801996857