Golden Talks

Golden Talk: Series 2 EP 7: Kerry Milliken a co-founder of ToBe Heartsafe

In this special episode of Golden Talks, we speak with Kerry Milliken, co-founder and director of the not-for-profit organisation ToBe Heartsafe. Kerry shares the powerful story behind the organisation, which was created following the tragic loss of a young man to sudden arrhythmic death syndrome (SADS), an undiagnosed heart condition.   Kerry explains the importance of teaching young people what to do in an emergency, helping them feel confident calling for help and taking action if someone collapses, while also exploring how Golden Thread schools are working with ToBe Heartsafe to deliver CPR and emergency response training to pupils and families.  Learn more about The Golden Thread Alliance: https://golden-thread.org/. [https://golden-thread.org/]

Golden Talk: Series 2 EP 6: Julia and Keeleigh from Oakfield on SEND/Inclusion

This episode of Golden Talks brings together Julia McCluskey and Keeleigh Jackson from Oakfield Primary Academy to discuss SEND, inclusion, and the power of belonging in education. They reflect on their professional journeys and the experiences that inspired them to focus on supporting children with additional needs.    They discuss how Oakfield prioritises wellbeing, communication, and individualised support so that every pupil feels valued and understood. They also share examples of small but powerful successes, such as children developing communication skills or gaining confidence in everyday tasks. Their reflections highlight the dedication of school teams who work tirelessly to ensure that every child can thrive.   Learn more about The Golden Thread Alliance: https://golden-thread.org/. [https://golden-thread.org/]

Golden Talk: Series 2 EP 5: Terri Hickey on Belonging

In this episode of Golden Talks, we are joined by Terri Hickey, Operations Manager at The Riverview Academy, to discuss the theme of belonging and the powerful connections schools can build within their communities.   Terri shares her unique journey from being a pupil at Riverview to becoming a key member of the school’s leadership team. She also talks about how Riverview has maintained its strong community ethos over the years, supporting both pupils and families while also highlighting how belonging can shape both personal journeys and whole school communities.  For more information about The Golden Thread Alliance, please visit https://golden-thread.org/. [https://golden-thread.org/]

Golden Talk: Series 2 EP 4: Fliss Walsh on SEND/Inclusion

In this episode of Golden Talks, we speak with Fliss Walsh, Deputy Head and Inclusion Lead at The Riverview Academy, about the meaning and importance of SEND and inclusion in schools today. Fliss shares what a typical morning looks like in her role, talks about her journey into inclusion, her passion for working closely with teachers and teaching assistants, and why building trust with parents is central to effective SEND support.   She also discusses the broader challenges facing SEND provision nationally, including funding pressures, the impact of COVID-19 on children’s social and emotional development, and the importance of teamwork within schools in meeting complex needs.    For more information about The Golden Thread Alliance, please visit https://golden-thread.org/. [https://golden-thread.org/]

Golden Talk: Series 2 EP 3: Leon and Rebecca on SEND/Inclusion and Belonging

In this episode of Golden Talks, Temple Hill Primary Academy Headteacher Leon Dawson and Assistant Head for Inclusion Rebecca Crouch discuss what inclusion and belonging look like in practice.   Drawing on years of experience within the school community, they discuss how belonging sits at the heart of their approach to education. For them, inclusion means ensuring every child feels welcomed, respected and supported, regardless of their starting point. They also introduce the idea of “mattering,” where pupils are given meaningful roles and responsibilities to reinforce their importance within the school community. They also talk about the challenges schools face when supporting increasing levels of SEND need with limited resources.   Through it all, their focus remains on creating a school where children feel valued, and families know they will be supported.  For more information about The Golden Thread Alliance, please visit https://golden-thread.org/. [https://golden-thread.org/]