Meeting the Needs

In this episode, we check out the power of Communities of Practice and how they can transform your structured literacy approach teaching. Jenny shares the benefits of joining these collaborative sessions — from shared ideas and reflective practice to evidence-based strategies and stronger student outcomes. Discover how each session is intentionally designed to build confidence, capacity, and clarity across the key elements of structured literacy, including assessment, phonemic awareness, fluency, writing, and differentiation.

Dive into the game-changing role of fluency, automaticity, and processing delays in learning success. Jenny shares powerful insights from her recent work with teachers, exploring how oral language, handwriting, and reading fluency are foundational to comprehension and achievement. Discover how structured literacy, when combined with targeted assessment and explicit teaching, can unlock student potential—especially for those with learning difficulties.

In this thought-provoking episode, Karen Tui Boyes and Jenny Tebbutt delve into Cognitive Load Theory — not just as a scientific concept, but as a crucial tool for everyday classroom planning. They explore why understanding how students process information is essential, how teachers can use cognitive load strategies across subjects, and the fact that many educators never received in-depth training on this vital topic. You’ll learn about the three types of cognitive load, how classroom environments and teaching materials impact memory, and the seven key strategies that help put the theory into practice. With stories, practical tips, and reflections on structured literacy, this episode is a must-listen for educators, leaders, and parents wanting better outcomes for all learners. 🔗 Plus: We’ve linked helpful resources on cognitive load in practice to support your teaching journey.  https://www.spectrumeducation.com/meeting-the-needs-sl-podcast/

Are you really teaching explicitly—or just scratching the surface? In this episode, Karen and Jenny unpack what explicit instruction looks like in real classrooms, why it's non-negotiable for beginner learners, and how even experienced teachers often miss key elements. They explore the “what” (phonemic awareness, phonics, morphology, comprehension, and more) and the “how” (gradual release, managing cognitive load) that turn good teaching into great teaching. Plus, remember to watch the masterclass video from Anita Archer on vocabulary instruction—guaranteed to change how you teach. 🎥 Watch the video here → www.spectrumeducation.com/meeting-the-needs-sl-podcast

Differentiation gets talked about a lot—but what does it actually mean in a real classroom with diverse learners? In this episode, Jenny dives deep into how we can group, plan, and teach with purpose to meet every student where they are—using assessment as the foundation. Discover practical insights into learner waves, structured literacy, and how we can better support both our gifted learners and those who need intensive interventions. A must-listen for every teacher navigating the complexity of today's classrooms. 

Did you know that 99% of children with learning difficulties have a phonological weakness? In this episode, Karen and Jenny look into what phonological awareness really is, why it matters so much, and how structured literacy addresses this foundational skill. They also explore how early intervention—even before school—can set children up for literacy success, and highlight the powerful (and often overlooked) HPP junior language programme. A must-listen for anyone passionate about helping at-risk learners thrive.

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of auditory processing—what it is, how it affects learning, and why some students struggle to "hear the difference." Jenny unpacks the five key types of auditory processing difficulties, from auditory discrimination to figure-ground challenges, and explains how Structured Literacy provides powerful strategies to support these learners. You'll also hear practical examples, including the Weird Word Game, and discover simple yet effective techniques teachers (and even parents!) can use to help children develop strong auditory processing skills. Plus, a little bonus: some unexpected marital advice on listening! Join us for this insightful and engaging conversation, packed with real-life strategies to support struggling learners. 

Learn how Structured Literacy helps address key underpinning weaknesses, including phonological challenges, working memory, and processing speed. Jenny shares practical strategies that empower teachers to support at-risk learners, ensuring stronger reading, writing, and overall learning success.Plus see the visual demo of some strategies at https://www.spectrumeducation.com/meeting-the-needs-sl-podcast/

In this episode, we explore the importance of a multimodal approach in structured literacy, emphasising that learning challenges go beyond academics. Jenny shares insights on how integrating social, emotional, and behavioural support alongside structured literacy can significantly impact student success. By addressing cognitive load, executive functioning, and self-esteem, educators can create a holistic learning environment that better supports at-risk and neurodiverse students.

Unlock the power of Structured Literacy to better support at-risk learners in your classroom! In this episode, we explore why Structured Literacy is not a programme, rather a proven, evidence-based approach that empowers teachers with the tools to assess, differentiate, and accelerate student learning. Join host Karen Tui Boyes and expert Jenny Tebbutt as they discuss the essential strategies to improve literacy outcomes, reduce teacher workload, and ensure every student gets the support they need to thrive.