Mental Health Research: Practical Tips for Teachers and Practitioners to Navigate the Evidence

How Can Positive Psychology Transform Wellbeing in Secondary Schools?

...with Hannah Brownhill To kick off the summer term, Hannah Brownhill, a positive psychology practitioner and former secondary teacher shares her insights into embedding wellbeing in to schools through positive psychology. Following her Churchill Fellowship research in Australia, Hannah shares how schools can move beyond "wellbeing as an add-on" to create a culture of genuine flourishing. This episode explores the PERMA framework, the power of character strengths, and the systemic shifts needed in UK education. Hannah also offers practical, classroom-ready strategies for teachers, alongside honest reflections on the systemic challenges facing UK schools and encouragement to start small, prioritising your own wellbeing first. Key Discussion Points * The Australian Model: Insights from schools successfully embedding positive education into their DNA. * The PERMA Framework: Breaking down the five pillars of wellbeing: Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment. * Strengths-Based Teaching: How shifting our language from deficits to strengths transforms classroom dynamics. * Staff First: Why teacher wellbeing is the essential foundation for student flourishing. Resources * The PERMA Framework: https://ppc.sas.upenn.edu/learn-more/perma-theory-well-being-and-perma-workshops [https://ppc.sas.upenn.edu/learn-more/perma-theory-well-being-and-perma-workshops] * Character Strengths Guide: https://www.viacharacter.org/character-strengths-and-virtues [https://www.viacharacter.org/character-strengths-and-virtues] * Churchill Fellowship Research: https://www.churchillfellowship.org/ideas-experts/fellows-directory/hannah-brownhill/ [https://www.churchillfellowship.org/ideas-experts/fellows-directory/hannah-brownhill/] * Hannah Brownhill Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-brownhill-53a78919a/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-brownhill-53a78919a/] Bullet point summary: * Transition from secondary school teaching to positive psychology practice * Definition and principles of positive psychology * Application of positive psychology in education through positive education * Overview of the PERMA framework (Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment) * Importance of embedding wellbeing into the school culture rather than as an add-on * Challenges and strategies for implementing positive education in secondary schools * The concept of wellbeing literacy and its role in creating coherence among staff * Use of character strengths in the classroom and their impact on student interactions * Quick wins for teachers to incorporate positive education in their practice * Measuring the impact of positive education initiatives and the complexities involved in assessing wellbeing

Spring Takeover: Exploring the Multi-Store Model of Memory and the Rise of AI in Psychotherapy

Kicking off the summer term, this episode features two brilliant sixth-form students sharing their passion for psychology. Estelle, a year 13 student unpacks the multi-store model of memory, offering teachers genuinely practical strategies around attention, rehearsal, and retrieval practice to support student learning. Then Charlie, a Year 12 student, explores the exciting and thought-provoking role of AI in psychotherapy, examining how technology is making mental health support more accessible and affordable. Together, they demonstrate just how dynamic and relevant psychology is today — a timely reminder of the incredible thinking happening in our classrooms. A bullet point summary: * Discussion of the multi-store model of memory (modal model) by Atkinson and Shiffrin. * Explanation of sensory registers, short-term memory, and long-term memory. * Importance of capturing student attention in the classroom for effective learning. * Techniques for enhancing short-term memory retention, including rehearsal and elaborative rehearsal. * Strategies for connecting new information to prior knowledge to strengthen long-term memory. * Overview of the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in psychotherapy. * Benefits of AI in mental health support, including accessibility, affordability, and reduced stigma. * Limitations of AI therapy, such as lack of genuine empathy and privacy concerns. * Potential for AI to complement human therapists in mental health care. * Exploration of future possibilities for personalized therapy and improved access to mental health resources through AI.

Dilemmas in the Classroom: How to Balance Inclusion and Individual Needs

...with Dr Tracy Edwards In this episode, Tracy Edwards, senior lecturer at Leeds Beckett University and author of Severe and Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties in Schools, explores the ethical and practical dilemmas teachers face when supporting learners with complex needs. Drawing on her experience in both mainstream and special education, Tracy discusses inclusion, differentiation, and the importance of reflective, learner-centred practice. She highlights the value of embracing difference, fostering choice, and maintaining high aspirations for all pupils. This insightful conversation offers practical guidance and reassurance for secondary teachers navigating the challenges of inclusive education in UK schools. Useful Links: Severe, profound and multiple learning difficulties in school: considering ethical and dilemma-based perspectives by Tracy Edwards: https://www.routledge.com/Severe-Profound-and-Multiple-Learning-Difficulties-in-School-Considering-Ethical-and-Dilemma-Based-Perspectives/Edwards/p/book/9781032888750 [https://www.routledge.com/Severe-Profound-and-Multiple-Learning-Difficulties-in-School-Considering-Ethical-and-Dilemma-Based-Perspectives/Edwards/p/book/9781032888750] Beyond the 'Dilemma of difference': an analysis of stories from expereinced teachers about their inclusive practice: https://bera-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/berj.4129 [https://bera-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/berj.4129] Simmons, B. (2021) 'How special are mainstream schools? Reflections on social spaces for children with profound and multiple learning difficulties.' : https://researchspace.bathspa.ac.uk/14531/ BBC Articles on the topics mentioned in the podcast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cpr0xwx9e7jo [https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cpr0xwx9e7jo] https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx2r8y0v6l7o [https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx2r8y0v6l7o] https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cjw0e3zjx2lo [https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cjw0e3zjx2lo] Bullet point summary: * Special and inclusive education challenges for teachers. * Dilemmas faced by educators working with learners with complex special educational needs. * Inclusion versus exclusion in educational settings. * Ethical considerations in teaching and decision-making. * The role of special schools compared to mainstream schools. * Importance of "craft knowledge" in navigating educational dilemmas. * The impact of systemic failures on students with special needs. * The significance of choice and flexible differentiation in pedagogy. * The relationship between classroom practices and student engagement. * The need for ongoing reflection and ethical engagement in inclusive education.

Mental Health Research: Practical Tips for Teachers and Practitioners to Navigate the Evidence

...with Andre Tomlin In this episode, Andre from The Mental Elf discusses how we can make mental health research accessible and useful for teachers and practitioners. The conversation tackles the challenges of jargon, paywalls, and misleading headlines, sharing practical tips for spotting reliable studies and avoiding common pitfalls. Andre highlights the power of co-producing interventions with young people, the importance of prevention, and the value of focusing on emotions and relationships in schools. *Trigger Warning* - the discussion is focussed on mental health and there is brief discussion of suicide. Links to the resources mentioned are below: * The Mental Elf: nationalelfservice.net/mental-health [http://nationalelfservice.net/mental-health] * André Tomlin - LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/andretomlin/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/andretomlin/] * The ReSET Podcast Series https://resetproject.co.uk/the-reset-podcast/ [https://resetproject.co.uk/the-reset-podcast/] * Schools in Mind — free, evidence-based resources specifically for schools: https://www.annafreud.org/resources/schools-and-colleges/schools-in-mind/ [https://www.annafreud.org/resources/schools-and-colleges/schools-in-mind/] * Mentally Healthy Schools website — helps schools navigate what actually works https://www.mentallyhealthyschools.org.uk/ [https://www.mentallyhealthyschools.org.uk/] * Children and Young People's Mental Health Coalition https://cypmhc.org.uk/ [https://cypmhc.org.uk/] * Kiva Podcast with Julia Badger: https://changingstatesofmind.libsyn.com/unpacking-the-complexities-of-bullying-from-counter-connecting-to-whole-school-solutions [https://changingstatesofmind.libsyn.com/unpacking-the-complexities-of-bullying-from-counter-connecting-to-whole-school-solutions] * Kiva Podcast with Lucy Bowes: https://changingstatesofmind.libsyn.com/bullying-its-everybodys-problem [https://changingstatesofmind.libsyn.com/bullying-its-everybodys-problem] * More Mental Health podcasts from Psychology in the Classroom: https://changingstatesofmind.com/mental-health-%26-wellbeing [https://changingstatesofmind.com/mental-health-%26-wellbeing] Bullet point outline: * Challenges in making mental health research accessible to non-researchers, particularly educators and practitioners. * The gap between published research and its practical application in real-world settings. * Issues with paywalls, academic jargon, and the complexity of research language. * Importance of critically evaluating research headlines and studies, including understanding correlation versus causation. * Key factors for assessing research quality, such as peer review, study design, and effect size. * The role of mixed methods research in providing a comprehensive understanding of mental health interventions. * The significance of co-production with young people in developing effective mental health programs. * The distinction between efficacy and effectiveness trials in evaluating interventions. * Common myths about mental health research in schools and the importance of evidence-based prevention. * Resources and platforms that help bridge the gap between mental health research and practical application for educators.

The Power of Voice in the Classroom

...With Professor Silke Paulmann In this episode I am joined by Professor Silke Paulmann to discuss why how we sound matters just as much as what we say - the irony, as you will hear, being that my voice this week is far from fine! We often focus on the words we use to support student autonomy—offering choice and avoiding pressure—but Professor Paulmann's research reveals that our vocal tone is a primary carrier of psychological information. Whether you are teaching Early Years or Secondary, the way you modulate your voice can directly impact a student's sense of autonomy, competence, and relatedness. From reducing classroom anxiety to helping students feel truly "heard," your voice is one of the most powerful psychological tools in your teaching toolkit. Learn some easy to implement strategies to help your vocal tone. You can find out more here: https://www.tone4you.co.uk/ [https://www.tone4you.co.uk/] Key Moments: * Introduction to Professor Silke Paulmann: A look at her background in cognitive science and her research on voice as a biomarker. * The "Why" Behind the Voice: Why tone carries as much weight as our actual words in autonomy-supportive teaching. * Needs-Based Learning: How voice influences the three basic psychological needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. * Controlling vs. Supportive Voices: The difference between a "rushed" voice and a "grounded" voice. * Breathing Awareness: An exercise to find your breath and use it to reduce anxiety. * Tension Release: Using the "Sigh of Relief" and "Motorboat" sounds to loosen the vocal apparatus. * The Siren & Range: Stretching the voice to ensure it remains flexible rather than rigid. * Finding Your "Centered" Voice: A trick to stop speaking at an unnaturally high pitch. * The Practice Round: Lucinda tries out three different ways to say "Take your time" (Neutral, Pressuring, and Supportive). * Impact on Student Memory: Why slowing down doesn't just improve wellbeing, but also helps students remember more. * Closing Thoughts & Cool Down: A final breath exercise and a reminder that your voice is a psychological tool.