Catching up with Sarah and Ginny

Mary Moran, an educator in Ireland, shares her journey of creating a structured literacy program called dCode and its impact on schools and students. She emphasizes the importance of oral language in reading and the empowerment of older learners. Mary also discusses the impact of illiteracy on mental health and the power of reading. Additionally, she shares her love for books and the search for a beloved book.

Sarah and Ginny catch up with Susan Tooze from Academy 21. They discuss the impact of online alternative provision, and the power of music and books in education and delve into the themes of connection, revisiting texts, and the impact of different mediums on storytelling.

Lulu Skantze, the founder of Storytime, discusses the power of stories in childhood, the influence of childhood stories on adult life, and the importance of patience in children's reading. She emphasises the impact of childhood stories on shaping adult values and mental health, as well as the significance of allowing children to discover stories at their own pace. Lulu also shares insights on empowering children to create their own stories and the lessons from the world's longest scientific study of happiness, highlighting the impact of relationships and community on happiness.

Sarah and Ginny chat wow moments from recent guests, and the importance of inclusion bases in schools. They dive into the joy of books and the significance of being an 'umbrella' for others.

Sarah and Ginny catch up with Beverley Walters and delve into the challenges and considerations within the education sector, emphasising the importance of understanding and supporting diverse needs.

Sarah and Ginny catch up with Edufuturist Ben Whitaker on education technology, innovation in teaching methods, the impact of ADHD diagnosis, psychological safety and understanding, hospitality and marginal gains.

Julia Clouter, Director of Education Policy and Strategy for Empowering Tech, shares her journey as an educator and advocate for learners with special educational needs. She discusses the importance of understanding neurodiversity and the impact of assistive technologies on learning and self-perception.

The conversation covers a range of topics including introductions and networking, the inclusive classroom experience, technology and personal connection, reflections on the event, furniture and inclusion, time and space for reflection, educational support services, community and collective responsibility, celebrating best practices, collaborative approach for change, real-life connections, and the spark of education.

Sarah and Ginny share their thoughts from the Schools and Academies Show in London, live from the Inclusive Classroom! This interview explores classroom design, the importance of sensory-friendly environments, and the impact of furniture and space on student well-being. Featuring insights from interior designer Lucy Bayliss and educators, it offers practical tips for creating supportive learning spaces.

Join Sarah and Ginny as they explore the art of effective meetings, active listening, and fostering community support. Discover practical insights on structuring meetings, the power of positive mindset, and the importance of community in education.

Join us as Louise Selby, a dyslexia specialist and author, shares her insights on implementing morphological approaches in schools, the importance of whole-school practice, and the impact of joy and consistency in literacy education.

Join Sarah and Ginny as they explore the power of routines, habits, and creative approaches to literacy and engagement in education. Discover practical strategies, inspiring stories, and the importance of modelling and consistency in fostering a love for reading and learning.

Join us as Andrew Lewer MBE shares his diverse career journey from politics to education, exploring the importance of history, storytelling, and the power of books in learning and community building.

Join Sarah and Ginny as they explore the power of storytelling, the importance of support networks, and the value of understanding and communication in education and personal growth. Discover insights on how to leverage strengths, build community, and foster meaningful connections.

Join Sarah and Ginny with Fintan O'Regan as they explore the significance of names, the journey of inclusivity in education, and practical strategies for supporting neurodivergent learners. Discover insights on mood, behaviour, and the power of community support in transforming educational experiences.

Join us as Nina Jackson, aka Nina the Ninja, shares her inspiring journey through education, mental health, and technology. Discover her insights on SEND, the importance of human connection, and her memorable experiences from Wales to Ghana.

Live from the National Literacy Trust Primary Conference!

Sarah and Ginny explore what it means to move beyond the label and the DfE's latest White Paper. They discuss the impact of light, connection, and curiosity in education and well-being. Discover practical insights, innovative tools, and inspiring stories that enhance learning environments and foster meaningful relationships.

Sarah and Ginny explore the power of relational inclusion, the impact of energy and happiness in education, and practical tools like circle practices and co-production to enhance well-being and collaboration in schools.

Join Sarah and Ginny as they explore the power of storytelling, reading, and connection in education. Discover insights on engaging diverse learners, the importance of shared experiences, and practical strategies to foster a positive classroom environment.

Ginny catches up with Karl Pupé FRSA! They discuss the origins of 'Action Hero Teacher' as well as strategies and philosophies for teaching, leading and engaging with students and communities.

Sarah and Ginny catch up with Ali Gilbert from nasen and Mark Anderson from Netsupport during BETT 2026!

Sarah and Ginny catch up with Shahana Knight, a childhood trauma and behaviour specialist, about her mission to transform classroom environments and challenge traditional educational norms. She emphasises the importance of creating supportive and comfortable learning spaces for children, particularly those with trauma and special educational needs. The conversation explores the impact of classroom design on student behaviour, the need for educators to question established practices, and the significance of fostering self-belief in children. Shahana shares her journey of developing a new range of educational furniture and highlights the challenges faced in implementing change within schools.

Sarah and Ginny discuss the National Year of Reading, the importance of accessible resources for schools, and the significance of interactive learning. They also touch on the impact of music and book recommendations on personal development, as well as the dynamics of communication through the lens of the Cartman Drama Triangle.

Sarah and Ginny discuss their recent experiences and insights in education, focusing on the importance of connection, storytelling, and the role of readiness in teaching. They share personal anecdotes, 'wow moments' in classrooms, and the significance of songs and books in shaping educational experiences. The conversation emphasises the need for collaboration, bravery, and creating engaging learning environments for both teachers and students.

Ginny Bootman and Dr. Sarah Moseley welcome Hywel Roberts, a passionate educator, writer, and speaker. Hywel shares his journey in education, emphasising the importance of engaging students and fostering a love for learning. He discusses his book, "Botheredness," which focuses on motivating children to care about subjects that may seem distant or irrelevant to them. Hywel also delves into the challenges teachers face in maintaining enthusiasm and creativity in the classroom amidst changing educational policies and pressures.

Sarah and Ginny catch up about communication styles, self-regulation, and the dynamics of meetings. The conversation also touches on the role of mediators in discussions, the emotional connections we have with music, and the value of lifelong learning through books and personal experiences. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of continuous growth and understanding in our interactions with others.

A highlight reel of some of our wonderful guests from 2025 sharing personal experiences and insights. Hear from Mary Myatt, Dr Helen Ross, Ian Gilbert, Annamarie Hassall MBE, Stephen Steinhaus, Jay Davenport, Dave McPartlin and Dallas Campbell!

Sarah and Ginny discuss literacy, reading, and book exploration, delving into the future of literacy, expanding access to books, the resurgence of drama and reading, linking theory and practice, understanding brain function, encouraging book exploration, audio book and film connections, and sharing book recommendations. The takeaways include the importance of multimodal reading, access to print material, and empowering children to enjoy books.

Ginny and Sarah explore the rapid evolution of technology in education, discussing the challenges and opportunities it presents for both teachers and learners. They emphasise the importance of bridging the skills gap, overcoming barriers to technology adoption, and fostering a culture of curiosity and creativity in the classroom. The discussion also highlights the significance of human connection in learning, the practical applications of technology, and the role of music and storytelling in education. They conclude with book recommendations that inspire curiosity and engagement.

Dallas, Sarah, and Ginny explore a variety of topics ranging from Dallas's impressive career in science and technology broadcasting to the impact of social media on society. They discuss the importance of inspiring the next generation through education and reading, the role of television in creating shared cultural experiences, and the challenges of maintaining meaningful interactions in a digital age.

Sarah and Ginny catch up with Mary Myatt who shares her extensive experience in education, focusing on the impact of reading initiatives and the importance of connection in teaching. The discussion highlights the significance of sharing successful practices, the role of music and memory in education, and the influence of inspiring books. They discuss the competing energies in leadership, emphasising the need for openness and curiosity.

Sarah and Ginny discuss the significance of interactive learning environments, the importance of reflection, and the role of scaffolding in deep thinking. The conversation also touches on visual learning, particularly in the context of teaching fractions, and concludes with a discussion on community connections through books and shared experiences.

Sarah and Ginny discuss the importance the journey, not just the destination, and how these experiences can inform teaching and learning. The conversation covers practical tips for travel, the significance of positive learning experiences, and reflections on how travel can shape our perspectives.

Jay Davenport, regional director for the Southwest at the Thinking Schools Academy Trust, discusses his journey in education, the importance of collaboration, advocacy, and inclusion, and the impact of personal experiences on leadership. He reflects on the Educating Northants movement, the shift from competition to collaboration in education, and the need for diverse perspectives in decision-making. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community and belonging in creating effective educational environments.

Emma Balchin, Chief Executive of the National Governance Association, discusses the importance of inclusive governance in education, sharing personal insights on policies affecting students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). She emphasizes the need for nuanced approaches to school policies, particularly regarding uniform and appearance, and reflects on the impact of literature in understanding gender bias and unconscious perspectives

Dan Morrow, trust leader for Cornwall Education Learning Trust, discusses the importance of empowering educational leaders, the significance of early years education, and the challenges faced in the current educational landscape. He emphasises the need for curiosity in learning, the role of SEND, and the necessity of joy in education. The conversation also touches on the impact of structural issues and the importance of collaboration among educators.

Stephen Steinhaus, co-founder and CEO of Solihull Alternative Provision Multi-Academy Trust, shares insights into the challenges and innovations in alternative education. He discusses the importance of culture in education, the need for collaboration, and the philosophy of giving in teaching.

Dr. Nicole Ponsford discusses her journey in EdTech and inclusion, highlighting the intersection of technology and education. She shares her achievements with the Global Equality Collective, emphasising the importance of understanding diverse experiences in education. The conversation also touches on the role of music and literature in fostering inclusion, as well as the significance of data in identifying trends and improving educational practices.

Annamarie discusses her role at NASEN and the significance of diverse perspectives in education. She shares insights on the impact of music in inclusion, and NASEN's own Ali Gilbert, and highlights the book 'The Anatomy of Peace' as a valuable resource for fostering understanding and collaboration in educational settings.

Sarah and Ginny discuss the importance of face-to-face interactions, the power of voice messages, and the need for accessible learning materials. They touch on creative storytelling and the significance of personal connections in education.

Ginny catches up with Ian Gilbert who shares his extensive experiences in education across various countries, emphasising the importance of independent thinking, creativity, and motivation in teaching. He discusses the differences in educational systems globally, the role of hope in learning, and the need for innovative approaches to education. The conversation also touches on personal growth, the significance of cross-fertilisation of ideas, and the impact of various educational philosophies.

Sarah and Ginny explore confidence in presentation, the importance of time management in education, and the evaluation of classroom practices. They discuss the significance of systems and organisation in teaching, the pressures educators face, and how music and literature can inspire and shift mindsets. They emphasise the need for self-reflection and the importance of creating supportive environments for learners.

Ginny and Sarah explore various themes related to fashion, in-person training experiences, audience engagement, and the importance of choice in education. They share insights on the power of music in learning, and recommend books that enhance literacy. The discussion emphasises the need to return to basics in education, focusing on the individual needs of learners and the importance of creating an inclusive environment.

Andre Imich OBE is a specialist in special educational needs (SEN) and disability, and shares his experiences and insights from his extensive career in education. He reflects on a poignant moment with Jonathan Bryan, a young boy with profound learning difficulties, highlighting the importance of inclusion in schools. The discussion also touches on the passionate beliefs of stakeholders in the SEN community, likening their diverse approaches to the song 'My Way.' Andre recommends two books that have influenced his perspective, emphasising the need for trust and understanding in the current educational landscape.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Helen Ross shares her insights on dyslexia, current research projects, and the importance of feedback and inclusion in education. The discussion highlights the evolving definition of dyslexia, the significance of supportive practices for neurodiverse individuals, and the need for compassion in self-assessment. Helen's experiences and reflections provide valuable takeaways for educators and advocates in the field.

In this engaging conversation, Sarah and Ginny explore various themes related to distractions, focus, and the writing process. They discuss strategies for enhancing productivity, the importance of creating effective work environments, and the role of self-reflection in education. The conversation also touches on the significance of community and connection, celebrating achievements, and the impact of music on learning. Throughout the discussion, they share personal insights and practical tips for educators.

In this engaging conversation, Ginny and Dave McPartlin explore the importance of creating welcoming environments in educational settings, the significance of building strong relationships, and the need for community engagement. They discuss innovative approaches to education, emphasising the necessity of feeling safe and secure for both students and staff. The dialogue highlights the challenges faced in the current educational landscape and the importance of fostering a sense of belonging within schools.

In this episode of 'Catching Up with Sarah and Ginny', the hosts discuss the importance of community connections in education, the impact of sensory experiences on learning, and the necessity of embracing change and flexibility in teaching. They share personal anecdotes about small changes that can make a big difference, the significance of music and joy in the classroom, and the importance of continuous learning as educators. The conversation also touches on dyscalculia with guest Rob Jennings, highlighting the need for awareness and support in mathematics education.