Beyond Behaviour: Understanding Trauma-Informed Practice in Schools

Beyond Behaviour: Understanding Trauma-Informed Practice in Schools

Not every student behaviour is defiance, disengagement, or disruption. As trauma-informed practice becomes a growing focus in education, teachers are increasingly being asked to respond to complex student needs with understanding, safety and connection. In this episode, Emily Berger and Yihan Sun explore what trauma-informed practice actually means in schools and early childhood settings, and why the conversation is far more nuanced than simply changing the way behaviour is managed. Together, they discuss the realities educators are facing, the challenges of responding to students in meaningful ways, and why many teachers are still trying to understand what trauma-informed practice looks like in day-to-day classrooms.  (00:00) Understanding Trauma-Informed Practice (03:29) Looking Beyond Behaviours (07:48) How Trauma Impacts Learning (12:19) Understanding Trauma-Related Needs (14:45) Fear, Safety and Student Behaviour (20:45) The Importance of Safe and Trusted Adults (22:18) Supporting Teachers to Do This Work Well (24:02) What Sits Within a Teacher’s Role? (27:44) Why Whole-School Support Matters (33:42) Practical Advice for Educators Special Guests:  Emily Berger Associate Professor, School of Educational Psychology and Inclusion Faculty of Education, Monash University Educational and development psychologist specialising in trauma-informed practice and educator. wellbeing. Yihan Sun [https://www.linkedin.com/in/yihan-sun-42849927a/] PhD Candidate, Monash University Researching trauma-informed approaches in early childhood education settings. Resources: Trauma-Informed Practice: * Australian Childhood Foundation [https://www.childhood.org.au/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] * Emerging Minds [https://emergingminds.com.au/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Wellbeing & Mental Health Support * Beyond Blue [https://www.beyondblue.org.au/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] * Headspace [https://headspace.org.au/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] * Lifeline Australia [https://www.lifeline.org.au/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] If you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review!  You can follow us on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/monash-education/posts/?feedView=all], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/monash_education], X [https://twitter.com/MonashEducation?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/EducationMonash], and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast. You can DM us with any questions or ideas, or if you’re not on socials, email us at edu-alumni@monash.edu [edu-alumni@monash.edu]. If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit our website [http://monash.edu/education/learnmore] We are grateful for the support of Monash Education in producing this podcast.

Behaviour as Learning: A Fresh Perspective for Educators

Rather than reacting to misbehaviour, what if we approached it with the same planning and intention we bring to teaching literacy and numeracy in the classroom?  In this episode, behaviour expert Dr Russ Fox and school leader Karina Stocker explain why behaviour should be treated as a skill - explicitly taught, consistently reinforced, and supported through clear expectations and structured routines. From embedding multi-tiered support systems (MTSS) to practical coaching and playbooks, they share how teachers and schools can build consistency, strengthen culture and support every learner.   Whether you’re working within a whole-school framework or applying these principles in your own classroom, this episode offers grounded, practical strategies to help reduce the guesswork and make behaviour support sustainable.  In this episode, you’ll learn: * Why behaviour should be taught, not managed - and what that looks like in practice. * The key principles of a multi-tiered support system (MTSS). * How school-wide consistency improves both learning and behaviour. * Practical strategies teachers can use when working without whole-school frameworks. * What real support for teachers looks like - and why they shouldn’t go it alone Topics we explore: (00:00) Introduction to Positive Behaviour Support (02:16) Effective Approach to Behaviour Support (02:55) Building Whole-School Systems and Consistency (05:28) Support for Teacher Success (07:12) Understanding Tiered Support Systems (09:54) Building Relationships Through Behaviour Teaching (11:05) Behaviour Is a Curriculum That Can Be Taught (14:19) Setting Up Environments for Learner Success (18:25) Helpful Environmental Starting Points (20:57) Managing Teacher Workload and Practice (24:37) Building Systems That Support Teachers (30:43) Instructional and Daily Routines for Success (32:46) Using Extrinsic Supports to Build Intrinsic Motivation (33:32) Final Reflections on Teaching Behaviour Resources:  * Positive Classroom Management Strategies [https://www.schools.vic.gov.au/pcms#get-started-with-the-pcms] - Victorian Department of Education  * US Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Guide on Supporting and Responding to Student’s Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Needs: Evidence-Based Practices for Educators [https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/5d3725188825e071f1670246/680ffe6278739921d85736d4_Supporting%20and%20Responding%20to%20Students%E2%80%99%20Social%2C%20Emotional%2C%20and%20Behavioral%20Needs.pdf] (2025) * The Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO) resources on classroom management practices, [https://www.edresearch.edu.au/topics/classroom-management] * Monash Teachspace Article: How to develop effective behaviour support plans in schools [https://www.monash.edu/education/teachspace/articles/how-to-develop-effective-positive-behaviour-support-plans-in-schools]   * Research paper: Using Data to Support Educators’ Implementation of Positive Classroom Behavior Support (PCBS) Practices [https://web.archive.org/web/20200711191754id_/https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1211570.pdf] (2019) * Research paper: Between the lines: Integrating the science of reading and the science of behavior to improve reading outcomes for Australian children [https://doi.org/10.1007/s42822-023-00149-y] (2024)   * Working paper: Addressing the gaps in teacher preparation: A one-size-fits-all approach does not exist [https://bridges.monash.edu/articles/report/Education_into_the_2030s_The_big_education_challenges_of_our_times_Faculty_of_Education_Working_Paper_2/19689220?file=41033339] Special Guests:  Dr Russ Fox Lecturer, School of Educational Psychology & Counselling Faculty of Education, Monash University Connect with Russ on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-fox-phd-327241210/] Karina Stocker  Multi-Tiered Systems of Support Leader, Docklands Primary School, Melbourne  Educational Consultant, Teacher and PhD Candidate Connect with Karina on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/karina-stocker-73612a91/] and X [https://x.com/karina__stocker] If you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! You can follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/monash_education], https://twitter.com/MonashEducationX [https://twitter.com/MonashEducation?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/EducationMonash], and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast.  If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit our website [http://monash.edu/education/learnmore]. We are grateful for the support of Monash University’s Faculty of Education in producing this podcast.

Keeping Play in the Picture: Imagination and Learning in Early Education

Play is more than just fun - it’s a key driver of creativity, problem-solving and social connection in early learning. Yet as children progress through school, opportunities for play often shrink - taking with them an essential part of how students learn, reason and make sense of the world. In this episode, early years researcher Dr Leigh Disney, and teacher and PhD Candidate Hong Chen share practical, developmentally appropriate strategies for keeping play alive across year levels. From imaginative play corners to structured problem-solving, they explore how teachers can balance curriculum demands with creativity - and why it’s so important in supporting literacy, numeracy, identity and emotional growth.  At a time when adaptability, creativity and critical thinking are increasingly vital in our rapidly changing world, play remains one of the most powerful tools teachers can use to prepare students for the future.  In this episode, you’ll learn: * Why play-based learning supports academic and emotional growth.  * How play changes across developmental stages—and why it still matters. * What imaginative learning looks like in real classrooms. * Strategies for embedding play without compromising curriculum goals. * Why play can help students build identity, agency and connection.  Topics we explore: (00:00) Introduction to Play in Learning  (02:09) What Is Play? (04:17) Imaginative Play in Early Childhood (06:17) Linking Play to Learning (09:06) Play to Support Learning from Kindergarten to School (14:40) Conceptual Play Worlds and Problem Solving (17:08) Collective Play and Building Connection (19:07) Fostering Imagination in Play Over the Years (21:45) Chaos and Problem Solving in Imaginative Play  (25:04) Imagination in Upper Primary (26:55) Where Teachers Can Start with Play (30:00) Balancing Curriculum and Play (31:45) Final Thoughts on Purposeful Play Resources:  * Conceptual PlayWorlds [https://www.monash.edu/conceptual-playworld] An evidence-based model developed by Professor Marilyn Fleer for embedding imagination and inquiry-based learning into early years education. * Monash Education Course Options [https://www.monash.edu/education/professional-continuing-education/early-childhood] Learn more about postgraduate study options in early years and primary education. Special Guests:  Dr Leigh Disney Early Years Lecturer, School of Educational Psychology & Counselling Faculty of Education, Monash University Connect with Leigh on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/leigh-disney-3764b780/] Hong Chen PhD Candidate & Early Childhood Teacher Connect with Hong on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/hong-chen-b9830a199/], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/hhelene_chen/#] and X [https://twitter.com/homehttps://x.com/hchong_chen] If you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! You can follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/monash_education], https://twitter.com/MonashEducationX [https://twitter.com/MonashEducation?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/EducationMonash], and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast.  If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit our website [http://monash.edu/education/learnmore]. We are grateful for the support of Monash University’s Faculty of Education in producing this podcast.

Game Plan: Transforming Maths Teaching through Strategic Play

For many teachers, games have long been a classroom staple - but their impact goes far beyond surface-level engagement. When designed and used with intent, game-based learning can transform mathematical thinking, improve classroom dynamics, and create lasting connections to content. In this episode, Dr James Russo shares what makes a truly effective maths game, unpacking six key principles from his research and the importance of 'games into investigations'. Primary school teacher Matt Hale brings the classroom perspective, highlighting the joy, depth and unexpected power of games that promote strategic thinking, collaborative dialogue and differentiated learning. You’ll also hear how games like Fact or Fiction, Multiple Mysteries, and Choc Chip Cookies are sparking genuine mathematical thinking - and why the simplicity of cards, dice and paper often wins over digital solutions. In this episode, you’ll learn: * The difference between gamification and game-based learning - and why it matters. * What the six principles of effective maths games are and how to apply them. * How game mechanics support strategic thinking, reflection and investigation. * Why low-tech games often outperform digital tools in learning and engagement.  * The role of games in assessment, student agency and classroom culture.  Topics we explore: (00:00) Introduction to Game-Based Learning  (02:00) Game-Based Learning vs Gamification (03:27) Games That Built Deeper Thinking (04:33) Stickiness and Replayability  (05:51) Favourite Maths Games (09:47) Six Principles of Effective Maths Games (11:04) Turning Games into Investigations (13:02) Deepening Learning by Changing Rules (15:03) Games for Assessment  (17:12) Sneaky Learning and Student Confidence (18:05) Managing Competition in the Classroom (19:47) Six Key Principles Explained (26:40) Love Maths Website and Simple Games (27:52) Non-Digital vs. Digital Games (31:38) New International Research into Games (33:36) How to Start Using Games in Teaching Resources:  * Love Maths by Michael Minas [https://www.lovemaths.me/] Free, simple maths games for use at both home and at school. * SURF Maths [https://www.surfmaths.com/] A flexible, visual framework to support mental maths instruction. SURF helps teachers personalise strategy use, build consistency across classrooms, and strengthen students' mathematical thinking and language.  * Maths 300 [https://www.maths300.com/] Subscription-based maths lesson library, supporting inquiry through rich tasks and games. * Wheel of Names [https://wheelofnames.com/] A free random selector tool that was designed for choosing winners or names. Related research: * Unpacking game mechanics: Five types of whole-class mathematical games [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/378964831_Unpacking_game_mechanics_Five_types_of_whole-class_mathematical_games] * Transforming mathematical games into investigations [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/342028062_Transforming_mathematical_games_into_investigations] * Five principles of educationally rich mathematical games [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/328443542_Five_principles_of_educationally_rich_mathematical_games] Special Guests:  Dr James Russo Senior Lecturer, School of Curriculum, Teaching and Inclusive Education Faculty of Education, Monash University Matt Hale Teacher St Patrick’s Primary School, Mentone If you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! You can follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/monash_education], https://twitter.com/MonashEducationX [https://twitter.com/MonashEducation?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/EducationMonash], and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast.  If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit our website [http://monash.edu/education/learnmore]. We are grateful for the support of Monash University’s Faculty of Education in producing this podcast.

Teaching in the Age of AI: How Educators Can Lead the Change

While concerns about AI replacing teachers persist, the reality is far more complex—and filled with opportunity. This technology shift calls for a reimagining of the teacher’s role, where professional judgement, leadership and curiosity take centre stage. In this episode, Dr Jo Blannin unpacks what generative AI actually is, why it’s more than just a tech tool, and how teachers can lead its meaningful and ethical use in schools. Secondary School teacher Miguel Regalo shares how he and his colleagues are using AI on the ground - from supporting lesson planning and differentiation, to parent communication and professional reflection.  You’ll also hear how AI tools like ATLAS are being used in initial teacher education, and why the challenge ahead isn’t about keeping up with the technology - but shifting the mindset around how it’s used in, and out of, the classroom.  In this episode, you’ll learn: * What generative AI actually is - and how it works in simple terms. * How teachers and students are already using AI in practical ways.  * The ethical concerns around privacy, bias and student data.   * How AI is shaping assessment, learning design and workload.  * Where to start if you’re AI curious but not sure where to begin. Topics we explore: (00:00) Introduction to Generative AI (01:57) Big Questions about AI (02:52) What is Generative AI?  (06:20) Using AI in the Classroom (07:36) Ethics, Privacy and Data Safety (12:18) How Teachers Are Using AI  (15:16) Understanding and Adopting AI (18:02) Effective Leadership in School Change (19:00) How Students Are Using AI (19:49) Rethinking Assessment with AI (26:08) Atlas Project: Real-World Teaching Practice (29:41) Where to Start if You’re AI Curious Resources:  * ATLAS (Automated Teaching and Learning at Scale) [https://activesim.org/] An AI-powered simulation tool used for professional development, including roleplays for parent-teacher interviews, mentoring conversations and behaviour support. * Monash University - AI Short Course [https://www.monash.edu/education/professional-continuing-education/teaching-leadership/ai-adventures-teaching-tomorrow-in-schools] Explore Artificial Intelligence courses and delve into the dynamic realm of possibilities.  * Supporting Teachers and Teaching in the Age of Artificial Intelligence - Research Project (Jo Blannin [https://research.monash.edu/en/projects/supporting-teachers-and-teaching-in-the-age-of-artificial-intelli]) This project aims to investigate teacher capabilities to respond to, and engage with, Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in their classrooms and online teaching. Special Guests:  Associate Professor Jo Blannin Senior Lecturer, School of Curriculum, Teaching and Inclusive Education Faculty of Education, Monash University Connect with Jo on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanneblannin/] Miguel Regalo Professional Growth & eLearning Leader Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School Connect with Miguel on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/miguel-regalo/] If you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! You can follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/monash_education], X [https://twitter.com/MonashEducation?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/EducationMonash], and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast.  If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit our website [http://monash.edu/education/learnmore]. We are grateful for the support of Monash University’s Faculty of Education in producing this podcast.