PODCAST · education
The Mindfulness for Learning Podcast
by Mindfulness for learning
Expert insights and real conversations on mindful learning, development and wellbeing.Hosted by Sophie Smith-Tong, founder of Mindfulness for Learning, this podcast brings together educators, parents, carers, and others passionate about supporting children and families. Through diverse voices and lived experiences, we explore mental health, mindfulness, and what it truly means to care, in and beyond the classroom.
Episodes
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47. Play is Learning. Ruth Lue-Quee.
In this episode, Sophie Smith-Tong sits down with Ruth Lue-Quee to explore why play is still so often viewed with suspicion, despite overwhelming evidence of its importance in children's development. Together, they discuss Ruth's Parliamentary Play Is Learning campaign and the work being done to...
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46. Unschooled: The story of a family that doesn’t fit in. Caro Giles
In this episode, Sophie speaks with author and former teacher Caro Giles about her book Unschooled and her family's journey through Emotional Based School Avoidance (EBSA). We explore the realities of school-related distress, why neurodivergent children are often misunderstood, and how mainstream...
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45. The Reality of Speech and Language Provision in Schools. Ruth Jones
In this episode, Sophie is joined by speech and language therapist and author of Neurodiversity-Affirming Practice for Speech and Language Therapists, Ruth Jones, for a conversation about supporting communication and language development in schools today. Sophie and Ruth discuss the value of...
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44. Unauthorised Absence: Can a Short Film Change the Law? Jo Clayton and Natalie Lauren
In this episode, the podcast welcomes Jo Clayton and Natalie Lauren, the writer and producer behind the upcoming short film Unauthorised Absence. "From lived experience to national action, Jo’s script inspires empathy & change for SEND children & families harmed by education policy" In their…
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43. The School Mental Health Toolkit - Andrew Cowley
In this episode, Sophie is joined by Andrew Cowley for a timely and insightful discussion on schools, mobile phones, and mental health. They explore the ongoing debate around mobile phone use in schools, including recent updates from the Education Secretary and Ofsted’s increasing focus on how...
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42. Growing Strong Happy Families - Lulu Luckock
Sophie is joined by someone whose work has shaped the emotional landscape of countless children, families, and educators. Lulu Luckock is an education advisor and trainer specialising in Social and Emotional Learning in primary schools, and a counsellor supporting families, individuals, couples,...
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41. Think Equal, Empowering Change Through Education - Leslee Udwin
In this episode, Leslee shares with Sophie, her frustrations with slow-moving education reform, the lack of focus on children’s holistic and emotional development, and the undervaluing of the early years profession. They also explore her transformative Think Equal programme — a global initiative...
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AUTONOMY MINI-SERIES EPISODE 5/5. Greg Bottrill - Illuminating the Wonder Child
The final episode of our Autonomy Mini-Series! Sophie is joined by the incredible Greg Bottrill. This is a conversation that goes beyond the usual — they dive straight into the heart of educational change. From questioning things like pen licenses and rigid seating rules to exploring the power of...
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AUTONOMY MINI-SERIES EPISODE 4/5. Tina Farr - Children and Autonomy
In this episode, Sophie is diving into child autonomy with an approach that Headteacher, Tina Farr says is not "progressive or maverick". We’re talking practical changes that put children at the heart of learning - like flexible seating options, OPAL play, and true curriculum freedom. Sophie and...
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40. The Story So Far: Laura Henry-Allain
In this episode, Sophie is joined by Laura Henry-Allain MBE - an international award-winning early education specialist, writer, and children's media creator. Laura is the brilliant mind behind the much-loved JoJo and Gran Gran on CBeebies, where she works as creator and associate producer. She’s...
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AUTONOMY MINI-SERIES EPISODE 3/5. Jimi Famurewa - Autonomy and Expectations: Navigating Pressure, Bias, and Belonging
In this episode, Sophie is joined by the talented restaurant critic, writer, and Good Food Guide columnist, Jimi Famurewa. Jimi and Sophie share a unique connection, having both attended the same secondary school in the suburbs, and together they dive into their experiences. The conversation…
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AUTONOMY MINI-SERIES EPISODE 2/5. Annabelle Kapoor - What Do Staff Want?
In this episode, we’re joined by inspiring guest—Headteacher Annabelle Kapoor, who shares her insights on what it truly means to run a school in today’s ever-evolving educational landscape. From funding pressures to policy shifts, the role of a school leader has never been more complex. But…
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39. The Mindful Teacher's Handbook - Kamalagita Hughes
In this episode Kamalagita and Sophie explore Kamalagita's book 'The Mindful Teacher's Handbook'. They chat about the changing landscape of mindfulness and the power of mindfulness to manage some of the larger challenges in education including the SEND crisis....
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AUTONOMY MINI-SERIES EPISODE 1/5. Adrian Bethune - Autonomy in Education
In this episode Sophie and Adrian introduce and explore autonomy in education. They discuss why autonomy is vital for wellbeing, the challenges we face with autonomy in the current system and speak about ways we might approach change. This episode was edited by Ben Corbett
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38. The Mind Gig - Kate Parish
Kate Parish is a qualified primary school teacher, mindfulness and neuro-linguistic practitioner as well as an emotional freedom technique practitioner, trained in understanding mental health, understanding autism, challenging behaviour, life coaching and is a growth mindset advocate with over 20...
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37. School Wellbeing Surveys and Data - Katie O'Brien
Bounce Together is “A game-changing digital platform for measuring and continually monitoring wellbeing and mental health in your school.” In todays educational landscape we are challenged by the increasing mental health crisis with wellbeing becoming more and more focused on. In this episode...
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36. Diversity and Inclusion - Sarah DeSilva
If you are wanting to know why it is so important that we reflect upon our school culture and make changes to ensure that every single person in the school community feels seen and heard then listen to this episode. Sophie talks to KS2 Teacher & Equalities Lead, Sarah DeSilva. They explore…
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35. How to Develop a Culture of Staff Wellbeing and Mental Health in Schools - Steve Waters
Sophie speaks to Steve Waters, Founder/CEO of Teach Well Toolkit. Steve supports schools to build a culture of staff and pupil wellbeing and mental health. He also edited Cultures of Staff Wellbeing and Mental Health in Schools - a book full of positive case studies and reflections. In this…
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SPECIAL: School Attendance: Should We Really Be Forcing Children Into Classrooms? - Amy, Sarah and Lucy
SHARE MY STORY - A place to share your EBSA stories. - https://padlet.com/sophiemsmith/share-my-story-mindfulness-for-learning-u34ma7lm47ale2x Have you seen the new government campaign regarding school attendance? If not then take a look - many have named it the parent blaming campaign - a child...
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34. Rae and the Revolution - Rae Pica
Sophie takes Rae away from her book writing (yes a new one is coming out in Autumn 2024!) to chat play, child development, the myth of earlier is better and childhood screen time. Rae Pica has been an early childhood education consultant since 1980 and is internationally known as a speaker…
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33. The Importance of Inclusion in Education - Ellise Hollie Hayward
Amongst many other things, Ellise Hollie Hayward is a motivational speaker and disabilities correspondent @JillDandoNews. She has found her passion in supporting those working in education to do better when it comes to inclusion, following her own experiences of mainstream education with cerebral...
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32. On Top Of Nonsense Mountain - Greg Bottrill
Greg Bottrill chats to Sophie about the mountain of nonsense that is schemes, data, robots and outcomes. If you want to feel energised and ready to fight for play and childhood then this is the episode for you. Find Greg here - www.canigoandplaynow.com/ Find Nanny Sharz here -...
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31. Mindful Writing - Laura Bean
For this episode we are joined by author of Write to the Core, Laura Bean. Laura is a writing specialist and educational wellness consultant. As stated on her website Mindfulliteracy.com she been developing the Write to the Core curriculum, which integrates social-emotional learning with reading...
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30. Maths Matters: Building Early Foundations for Wellbeing and Self-Esteem - Karen Wilding
“What if the way you are currently teaching Maths is actually preventing your children from making great progress?” This is the opening question on Karen Wilding's website. Sophie talks to Karen, Founder of EYmaths about shifting perspectives on the way we approach maths. They explore why so many...
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29. A Guide to Teaching, Parenting and Creating Family Friendly Schools - Emma Sheppard
“Teachers don’t return, they are paid less when they do return; they are less likely to progress in leadership positions” this is a quote about the motherhood penalty from the new book 'A guide to Teaching, Parenting and Creating Family Friendly Schools' by the MTPT project. The Maternity Teacher...
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28. The Early Years Foundation Stage - Alistair Bryce-Clegg
Alistair Bryce-Clegg was a Headteacher for 10 years, has been an EYFS consultant since 2009 and has had a positive impact on settings around the world. He supports local authorities, runs conferences and delivers key notes speeches both nationally and internationally. In this episode Alistair...
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27. Mindful Movement - Pamila Shanti and Neelam River
“Our work is rooted in the ancient arts of qigong, yoga, mindfulness and meditation. When practicing these healing arts with intention, we are nurturing our heart and taking care of our wellbeing. We deepen our appreciation for the nature within us and around us.” The creators of Sea Light -...
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26. Real Talk on Women's Health and Sex Education - Sophie Whippy
Founder of Nave, Stretch and The Matter App Sophie Whippy kindly shares her expertise about women's health, transitions and sex education. This episode is full of good advice for educators and parents regarding women's health and how it is closely linked with the Relationship and Sex Education...
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25. Perimenopause, Hormones and our Health Service - Nicola Owen
Nicola Owen is a trained Teacher, Wellbeing Practitioner and the Founder of Zennic Wellbeing. In this episode Nicola discusses Perimenopause, the Menopause and hormonal imbalance. Having had to self diagnose Perimenopause and persuade her doctor to prescribe her HRT she has become an expert in...
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24. The Mindful Teacher's Toolkit - Kevin Hawkins
Kevin Hawkins is a Speaker, Trainer, Former Teacher and School Leader, Educational Consultant and Co-Author of The Mindful Teacher's Toolkit. In this episode Sophie chats to Kevin about mindfulness in schools and how we introduce practices to children and young people. They explore the shift in...
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23. Nature for Wellbeing - Mary Bell
Mary Bell states it is her "deep belief that by experiencing time in nature, we are enabling the healing benefits of the environment around us to help create a better future for our earth & ourselves". In this episode we explore the reasons why nature is an integral part of our wellbeing journey,...
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22. Practical Self-Care - Samuel Hart
Samuel Hart is the Founder of TeachStrong. TeachStrong "provide education professionals with the essential tools they need to revitalise their health and well-being." Sam joins me tto share many practical self-care tips. Whether you are wanting to get a better sleep, develop a mindfulness…
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21. Self-Compassion for Educators - Lisa Baylis
With her book Self-Compassion for Educators being released one year ago in June (2022) Lisa Baylis explores the themes of her book with Sophie, including self-compassion, mindfulness, how we work alongside unsupportive systems and finding space when we feel overwhelmed. Lisa’s book offers a…
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20. My Wellbeing Journey - Andrew Cowley
Find out more about us here: Mindfulnessforlearning.com Sophie speaks to the author of The Wellbeing Toolkit and more recently the The Wellbeing Curriculum. Andrew states that his first book "was 26 years in the making" and in this conversation they go right back to discuss Andrew's childhood…
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19. Wellbeing in International Schools and Beyond - Rhiannon Phillips-Bianco
Sophie talks to Rhiannon Phillips Bianco - Leader of Wellbeing and Positive Education at Southlands British International School in Rome. Rhiannon shares her expertise on looking after the wellbeing of those who move around the world regularly, how change can impact a person's sense of belonging...
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18. Water, Wellbeing and Schools - Canal and River Trust
The Canal and River Trust is a charity that "looks after and brings to life 2,000 miles of waterways". On their website they say “that spending time by water, whether it be your lunch break, daily commute or just a weekend stroll, really can make us feel happier and healthier” so I checked in…
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17. What are Adaptogens? - Catalina Bórquez
Catalina Bórquez is the COO of The Herbtender. The Herbtender create "supplements that support your body's ability to recalibrate in the face of life's daily stresses." Cata kindly chats adaptogens with us, going through her favourites, how we should be navigating them safely and discusses the...
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16. Postnatal Depression - Judy Barrington-Smuts
Judy Barrington-Smuts explores her experiences of Postnatal depression including how she accepted her ill mental health, her experiences of being in a Mother Baby Unit (MBU) and how this affected the people around her. Jude has now recovered and sharing her story can bring hope to those...
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15. My Experience of being an SEND Secondary Learning Mentor - Helen Barnes
Helen Barnes shares her experiences of being a Learning Mentor with Sophie. She discusses the role, explores it's challenges and shares the things she loved about the job. They also have a good chat about childcare, secondary education, children with additional needs, wellbeing in education,...
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14. Losing a Baby - Fiona Shaw
This week is Baby Loss Awareness Week According to SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society) “...the death of a baby is not rare. Every day in the UK around 14 babies die before, during or soon after birth. That means nearly every two hours a family is faced with the devastation of the death…
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13. How to be a Mindful Drinker - Dru Jaeger
Alcohol is such a huge part of the culture for many countries across the globe, for a lot of us it is believed that alcohol enables us to connect, deal with stress, sadness, happiness and joy. Reducing or removing alcohol from our lives seems to be on everyone's wish list but actually going…
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12. Massage in Schools - Gemma Clark
Sophie chats to Gemma Clark - TES writer, Primary School Teacher and Massage in Schools Instructor. In this episode Gemma reveals exactly what massage can do for the children in your care and how it can have a profound effect on their readiness to learn. "The Massage in Schools Association is a...
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11. My Experience of Being a Supply Teacher - Miranda
Sophie starts the series with supply teacher and environmental activist - Miranda. They chat all about the challenges and wins of being a supply teacher; the things you may want to expect before choosing to becoming a supply teacher, preconceptions of the people coming to look after our classes…
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SPECIAL: The Unrealistic Expectations of Mothers - Sam and Helen
Helen and Sam chat with Sophie about Motherhood; the journey from birth through maternity and into the first years of mum life. They dissect an article written by Eliane Glaser (‘Parent trap: why the cult of the perfect mother has to end’) exploring many topics including expectations, parenting…
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10. Play - EYFS Practitioner Amelia
Amelia is an Early Years Practitioner and joins Sophie to talk about the skills involved in early years learning. Whether you are a parent wanting to understand what is going on in your child’s EYFS classroom or a teacher exploring your early years approach this is an informative episode…
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9. Mindfulness in Education - Claire Kelly
Claire Kelly talks with Sophie about her own personal journey with mindfulness and discusses how you can successfully create a mindful culture in school. Claire Kelly began her career as a secondary school teacher and now works for the Mindfulness in Schools Project (MiSP) as the Head of…
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SPECIAL: Fatherhood and Mental Health - Adrian Bethune
For Men's Mental Health Week Sophie chats to Adrian all about his preconceptions of parenthood, what those first moments were like when his eldest was born and how he coped with expecting his first child the same month he was booked in to speak alongside the Dalai Lama! It's a great episode...
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8. From Teaching to Yoga, My Journey - Kaurice Moran
In this episode Kaurice Moran talks to Sophie about the difficulties in deciding what constitutes bullying in the workplace, how we can cope with this and she reflects upon her time at a setting where she was bullied, now with much more experience at hand. She also discusses her move to yoga...
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7. Education to End Gender Inequality and Gendered Violence - Natasha Eeles
Natasha Eeles, founder of Bold Voices, discusses how education can drive change to tackle gender inequality and cultures of gendered violence. Mindfulness for learning piece on RSE Some more helpful information from Natasha Read our article on Gender in the classroom
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6. Exploring Mental Health - David Cramer Smith
Sophie talks to David Cramer Smith, author of the novel, Medway. Discussing the novel initiates conversations about various mental health centred topics from the importance of having a support network, to understanding their relationships with alcohol. They also discuss the education system, what...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Expert insights and real conversations on mindful learning, development and wellbeing.Hosted by Sophie Smith-Tong, founder of Mindfulness for Learning, this podcast brings together educators, parents, carers, and others passionate about supporting children and families. Through diverse voices and lived experiences, we explore mental health, mindfulness, and what it truly means to care, in and beyond the classroom.
HOSTED BY
Mindfulness for learning
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Mindfulness for Learning Podcast have?
The Mindfulness for Learning Podcast currently has 55 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Mindfulness for Learning Podcast about?
Expert insights and real conversations on mindful learning, development and wellbeing.Hosted by Sophie Smith-Tong, founder of Mindfulness for Learning, this podcast brings together educators, parents, carers, and others passionate about supporting children and families. Through diverse voices and...
How often does The Mindfulness for Learning Podcast release new episodes?
The Mindfulness for Learning Podcast has 55 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to The Mindfulness for Learning Podcast?
You can listen to The Mindfulness for Learning Podcast on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Mindfulness for Learning Podcast?
The Mindfulness for Learning Podcast is created and hosted by Mindfulness for learning.
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