What do you do when you decide to interview educators for your podcast but you have no idea where to start?
You ask one of your best friends, that's what! I love love loved interviewing Josh - and he made it so easy! Like talking to an old friend it was (sometimes, the urge to channel Yoda is strong.)
Exploring 21 Years in Education: Insights from a Veteran Teacher
Key topics include:
Josh's journey in education
the evolving landscape of learning support
the increasing mental health challenges students face .
A Glimpse into Josh's Teaching Journey
Josh has taught in various countries but for most of his most of his career, he's been dedicated to learning support:
Roles: Head of learning support departments, delivering webinars and seminars, and engaging in professional development (PD) on supporting students of all abilities.
Motivation: Initially thought he would teach younger students but found his niche in high school learning support.
The Evolving Landscape of Learning Support
Increasing Demand and Diagnoses
Josh has observed significant changes in the realm of learning support over the years:
Rising Numbers: There's been an increase in the number of students requiring learning support.
Mental Health: A notable rise in mental health issues among students, particularly anxiety and depression, has been observed. This trend has been exacerbated by the pressures of modern life and the impact of COVID-19.
Strategies for Supporting Students
Addressing mental health in schools requires a combination of strategies:
Awareness: Teachers must be aware of their limitations in diagnosing mental health issues and rely on professional assessments.
Early Intervention: Prompt communication with parents is crucial when signs of mental health issues are observed.
Holistic Approach: Involving a team of educators, social workers, and healthcare professionals ensures comprehensive support for the student.
Advice for Teachers, Students, and Parents
For Teachers
Non-Diagnostic Role: Teachers should avoid diagnosing mental health issues and instead facilitate professional assessments.
Collaboration: Engage with parents and school support staff to address concerns early.
Continual Learning: Stay informed through training and professional development opportunities, such as mental health first aid courses.
For Parents
Open Communication: Be receptive to feedback from teachers about potential mental health concerns.
Seek Professional Help: Don't hesitate to consult with psychologists or counsellors if your child shows signs of anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues.
Address Personal Trauma: Parents who have experienced trauma should also seek support, as this can impact their children's well-being.
For Students
Encouragement to Speak Up: Students should be encouraged to express their feelings and seek help when needed.
Normalizing Mental Health Care: Promote the idea that seeking help for mental health is as important as seeking help for physical health.
Teacher Wellbeing: A Priority
Mental Health Support for Teachers
Many schools, including Josh's, recognise teachers' pressures and provide mental health support for their staff. Teachers at Josh's school, Hillcrest Christian College, have access to six free sessions with a counsellor, ensuring they have the resources to manage their mental health effectively.
Balancing Professional and Personal Life
The overwhelming load on teachers today is worse than ever. These days, you aren't just a teacher - you're a counsellor, a conflict resolution expert, a tech expert, an admin guru, an events coordinator, a punching bag, and more. The constant connectivity, with expectations to respond to emails promptly, adds to the stress. Josh and I are completely on the same page about this one: SET BOUNDARIES TO PROTECT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH! Please - turn off email notifications outside work hours and say no when necessary.
The RISE Program: A New Approach that Uses Outdoor Education
The RISE program at Hillcrest Christian College is a unique initiative aimed at year 9 students. Launched in 2023, it combines outdoor education with academic learning, providing a holistic approach to student development.
Structure and Benefits
The RISE program:
includes a mix of classroom learning and outdoor activities, making it particularly beneficial for students with ADHD and other conditions.
has a varied schedule that helps keep students engaged and active, contributing positively to their overall development.
is project-based and emphasises emotional intelligence alongside academics. For example, on Future Fridays, students participate in community service activities, helping out in old age homes, soup kitchens, and other community organizations. This exposure makes students more aware of their surroundings and responsibility towards others.
addresses the issue of teacher burnout by offering a refreshing change from traditional teaching methods. Teachers involved in the RISE program report feeling reinvigorated, as the hands-on, varied approach reignites their passion for teaching.
Thank you, Josh! 💖
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