Ep. 31 - How Teachers Can Manage Stress Before the New School Year

Ep. 31 - How Teachers Can Manage Stress Before the New School Year

The end of the school year is an opportunity to pause, reflect, and reset. But after months of increasing pressure, many teachers and school leaders find it difficult to switch off. In this episode, we explore the realities of stress in education and discuss practical psychological strategies that can help teachers decompress over the summer while preparing for the challenges of the new academic year. Drawing on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and positive psychology, we explore how changing the way we think about stress can influence how we feel and respond to difficult situations. We also reflect on the growing pressures facing schools, including the new Ofsted framework, SEND reforms, increasing workload, and the emotional demands placed on teachers and leaders. Throughout the conversation, we discuss how school culture, leadership, and psychological safety can support staff wellbeing during periods of significant change. Rather than simply trying to eliminate stress, we explore how teachers can develop healthier ways of responding to it while creating more sustainable habits for the year ahead. In This Episode, We Explore * Why the summer break should be about more than simply switching off. * Practical CBT techniques teachers can use to manage stressful thoughts and emotions. * The role of mindfulness and acceptance when dealing with uncertainty. * How positive psychology and language influence resilience and wellbeing. * The impact of Ofsted changes, SEND reforms, and increasing demands on schools * Why psychological safety and supportive leadership matter for staff wellbeing. * How teachers can prepare mentally for a healthier and more sustainable new school year. Why This Episode Matters Teaching has always been demanding, but increasing accountability, curriculum pressures, and changing expectations have left many educators feeling overwhelmed. This episode offers practical psychological approaches that teachers and school leaders can use to reflect on the past year, manage stress more effectively, and build healthier habits before returning to school. By understanding how thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and workplace culture interact, educators can approach the new academic year with greater confidence and resilience. 🎧 Listen now to discover practical strategies for reducing stress, improving wellbeing, and preparing for a more positive school year. Join the Conversation * What has been your biggest source of stress this academic year? * How do you switch off during the summer holidays? * Which stress management strategies have worked best for you? * What can school leaders do to better support staff wellbeing? * How do you think the new Ofsted framework and SEND reforms will affect schools next year? Episode Sponsor This episode of Between Two Psychs is proudly sponsored by Sanctuary Personnel. As a specialist recruitment partner across psychology services, education, social care, and healthcare, Sanctuary Personnel is dedicated to connecting talented professionals with organisations that truly value expertise. Their consultative approach means they understand the sectors they serve and the challenges faced by professionals across the UK. If you're looking to strengthen your team or elevate your own career, visit Trusted UK Recruiters for Social Work & Healthcare | Sanctuary Personnel [http://sanctuarypersonnel.com/] You can also reach out directly to Kamruz Zaman at Kamruz Zaman - Sanctuary Personnel [https://www.sanctuarypersonnel.com/consultants/kamruz-zaman/] and Suzi Couszins at Suzi Couszins - Sanctuary Personnel [https://www.sanctuarypersonnel.com/consultants/suzi-couszins/] Connect with Mike Lane Website: ridgewaypsychology.co.uk [https://www.ridgewaypsychology.co.uk/] LinkedIn: michael-lane [https://uk.linkedin.com/in/michael-lane-4304a3123] Connect with Me Instagram: @‌dradammcartney [https://www.instagram.com/dradammcartney/] Website: dradammccartney.com [https://www.dradammccartney.com/] YouTube: @‌Dr.AdamMcCartney [https://www.youtube.com/@Dr.AdamMcCartney]

Ep. 30 - Will a Social Media Ban Actually Help Young People?

In this episode, we explore the growing debate around social media restrictions for young people and whether limiting access could improve wellbeing, relationships, and child development. We discuss the proposed social media ban and examine both the potential benefits and unintended consequences. While social media can help young people maintain friendships and find communities, it can also create pressures through constant connectivity, fear of missing out, and online conflict. Throughout the conversation, we explore how social media may be shaping identity development, emotional regulation, and social communication skills. We consider whether online interactions are replacing opportunities for meaningful face-to-face relationships. We also examine the unique challenges for children and young people with S.E.N.D, including those who may find it easier to express themselves online than in person. Alongside this, we consider how schools, families, communities, and wider support systems may need to respond if social media restrictions become more widespread. Ultimately, we reflect on whether reducing social media use could encourage stronger relationships, healthier identity development, and greater participation in real-world activities, while recognising the need to support those who rely on online spaces for connection and confidence. In This Episode, We Explore * The potential benefits and risks of a social media ban for young people. * How social media influences friendships, relationships, and identity development. * The impact of constant online availability and fear of missing out (FOMO). * Why social communication and emotional regulation may be affected by online interactions. * How social media can contribute to conflict escalation and cyberbullying. * The opportunities young people may be missing when online activity replaces extracurricular experiences. * The role of schools, families, and communities in supporting healthier social development. Why This Episode Matters Social media has become a central part of modern childhood, yet questions remain about its long-term impact on wellbeing, relationships, communication, and identity development. This episode explores both sides of the debate, considering the potential benefits of reducing social media use alongside the challenges for young people who rely on online spaces for confidence, belonging, and self-expression. 🎧 Listen now to explore whether social media restrictions could help create healthier relationships, stronger identities, and more meaningful connections for the next generation. Join the Conversation What are your thoughts on the proposed social media ban? Could limiting social media improve young people's wellbeing and relationships? How can schools, families, and communities support young people if online access is reduced? Are there benefits of social media that we risk losing if restrictions become more widespread? Episode Sponsor This episode of Between Two Psychs is proudly sponsored by Sanctuary Personnel. As a specialist recruitment partner across psychology services, education, social care, and healthcare, Sanctuary Personnel is dedicated to connecting talented professionals with organisations that truly value expertise. Their consultative approach means they understand the sectors they serve and the challenges faced by professionals across the UK. If you're looking to strengthen your team or elevate your own career, visit http://sanctuarypersonnel.com . [http://sanctuarypersonnel.com/] You can also reach out directly to Kamruz Zaman at https://www.sanctuarypersonnel.com/consultants/kamruz-zaman/ [https://www.sanctuarypersonnel.com/consultants/kamruz-zaman/] and Suzi Couszins at https://www.sanctuarypersonnel.com/consultants/suzi-couszins [https://www.sanctuarypersonnel.com/consultants/suzi-couszins/] Connect with Mike Lane Website: ridgewaypsychology.co.uk [https://www.ridgewaypsychology.co.uk/] LinkedIn: michael-lane [https://uk.linkedin.com/in/michael-lane-4304a3123] Connect with MeInstagram: @‌dradammcartney [https://www.instagram.com/dradammcartney/] Website: dradammccartney.com [https://www.dradammccartney.com/] YouTube: @‌Dr.AdamMcCartney [https://www.youtube.com/@Dr.AdamMcCartney]

Ep. 29 - How to fix Experts At Hand

In this episode, we explore one of the biggest questions emerging from the proposed S.E.N.D reforms: have we become too focused on assessments, reports, diagnoses, and labels, while overlooking the value of professional conversations? We discuss the growing focus on consultation within the Experts at Hand model and what this shift could mean for schools, educational psychologists, and wider S.E.N.D support services. As systems move towards greater collaboration, we examine how consultation can help professionals understand challenges, develop solutions, and empower the adults who support children every day. Throughout the conversation, we unpack what consultation actually is and why it is much more than simply having a discussion. We also explore consultation frameworks, including PIMS and the SWAIR model, and how systemic thinking can help schools look beyond individual needs. Alongside this, we examine the differences between consultation, supervision, and coaching, and consider how these approaches may support future models of inclusion and multi-agency working. Ultimately, we reflect on how collaboration, shared expertise, and professional conversations can help build confidence, strengthen practice, and improve outcomes for children. In This Episode, We Explore * What the Experts at Hand approach could mean for schools and SEND services. * Why consultation is more than just a conversation. * How consultation can empower teachers and school staff. * The role of educational psychologists within emerging SEND reforms. * The PIMS and SWAIR consultation models. * The differences between consultation, supervision, and coaching. * Why shared expertise and multi-agency working are essential for supporting children. Why This Episode Matters As S.E.N.D systems continue to evolve, schools are increasingly being encouraged to build capacity through collaboration rather than relying solely on assessment-led approaches. This episode explores how consultation can support inclusion by bringing together expertise from schools and professional networks, helping staff develop confidence, practical solutions, and stronger systems of support. Whether you're a teacher, school leader, educational psychologist, SENCO, therapist, or parent, this episode offers valuable insights into the role consultation may play in the future of S.E.N.D and inclusive practice. 🎧 Listen now to discover why some of the most powerful support for children may begin with the right conversation. Join the Conversation What are your thoughts on consultation-based approaches? How can schools balance assessment, intervention, and collaboration? Have consultation approaches helped improve inclusion in your setting? Share your thoughts and experiences; we'd love to hear from you. Episode Sponsor This episode of Between Two Psychs is proudly sponsored by Sanctuary Personnel. As a specialist recruitment partner across psychology services, education, social care, and healthcare, Sanctuary Personnel is dedicated to connecting talented professionals with organisations that truly value expertise. Their consultative approach means they understand the sectors they serve and the challenges faced by professionals across the UK. If you're looking to strengthen your team or elevate your own career, visit sanctuarypersonnel.com [http://sanctuarypersonnel.com/]. You can also reach out directly to Kamruz Zaman at Kamruz Zaman - Sanctuary Personnel [https://www.sanctuarypersonnel.com/consultants/kamruz-zaman/] and Suzi Couszins at Suzi Couszins - Sanctuary Personnel [https://www.sanctuarypersonnel.com/consultants/suzi-couszins/] Connect with Mike Lane Website: ridgewaypsychology.co.uk [https://www.ridgewaypsychology.co.uk/] LinkedIn: michael-lane [https://uk.linkedin.com/in/michael-lane-4304a3123] Connect with Me Instagram: @‌dradammcartney [https://www.instagram.com/dradammcartney/] Website: dradammccartney.com [https://www.dradammccartney.com/] YouTube: @‌Dr.AdamMcCartney [https://www.youtube.com/@Dr.AdamMcCartney]

Ep. 28 - Why Are School Exclusions Rising When Behaviour Policies Are Clear?

In this episode, I explore a question that many schools are grappling with: Why are exclusions continuing to rise despite behaviour policies becoming clearer and more structured than ever before? Drawing on my experience as an Educational Psychologist, I examine the growing reliance on consequence-driven behaviour systems and explore why these approaches often fail to create lasting change. While clear expectations and boundaries have their place, behaviour does not happen in isolation. Children's experiences of school are shaped by relationships, emotional regulation, and their sense of belonging. Throughout the episode, I discuss how behaviour is often viewed as the problem itself rather than a signal that something deeper may be happening. I explore the impact of sensory, emotional, and social development on a child's ability to regulate their behaviour, particularly for neurodiverse young people navigating busy and demanding school environments. I also share practical alternatives that schools can use to strengthen relationships, improve accountability, and reduce conflict. From restorative approaches to proactive regulation strategies, this episode focuses on creating school cultures where young people feel seen, supported, and understood. Ultimately, this episode challenges us to consider whether behaviour policies alone can solve behaviour challenges, or whether meaningful relationships remain the most powerful tool we have. In This Episode, I Explore * Why exclusions continue to rise despite increasingly strict behaviour policies. * The difference between consequence-driven systems and relational approaches. * How sensory, language, emotional, and cognitive development influence behaviour. * Why neurodiverse pupils may find school environments particularly overwhelming. * The role relationships play in helping young people regulate emotions. * How restorative approaches can create genuine accountability and repair harm. Why This Episode Matters Across education, schools are facing increasing challenges around behaviour, attendance, wellbeing and exclusion. While many systems focus on consequences and compliance, this episode explores a different perspective: that behaviour is deeply connected to relationships, emotional safety, and a child's experience of belonging. Understanding what sits beneath behaviour can help schools move beyond simply managing incidents and towards creating environments where young people are more able to engage, regulate, and succeed. If you're a teacher, school leader, educational psychologist, or parent, this episode offers practical insights into how relationships can become a powerful foundation for both behaviour and learning. 🎧 Listen now and discover why the strongest behaviour strategy may not be a policy at all but the relationships we build every day. Join the Conversation What are your thoughts on behaviour policies and exclusions? Have you seen relational approaches make a difference in your school or setting? Share your thoughts and experiences. we'd love to hear from you. Connect with Me Instagram: @‌dradammcartney [https://www.instagram.com/dradammcartney/] Website: dradammccartney.com [https://www.dradammccartney.com/] YouTube: @‌Dr.AdamMcCartney [https://www.youtube.com/@Dr.AdamMcCartney]

Ep. 27 - The Power of Lesson Study: Making Inclusion Work Through Collaboration

In this episode, I explore one of the most effective approaches I use when working with schools: Lesson Study for Assessment. Originally developed in Japan, lesson study offers a collaborative framework that brings together teachers, educational psychologists, and school leaders to design, observe, evaluate, and refine teaching in a way that benefits all learners. Rather than relying on expert-driven recommendations, this approach places psychology and pedagogy side by side, creating a shared process of inquiry and problem-solving. Through real examples from my own practice, I explore how lesson study can strengthen inclusion, support pupils with additional needs, and help schools create learning experiences that are both meaningful and engaging. I discuss how collaboration between professionals can lead to better outcomes for children, while also giving teachers greater ownership of the learning process. A key theme throughout the episode is that effective support comes from psychology and pedagogy working together. When professionals bring different perspectives to the same challenge, they are better able to understand children's needs, build on their strengths, and create opportunities for genuine participation and success. Ultimately, this episode is about creating classrooms where every child feels valued, included and able to thrive. In This Episode, I Explore * What Lesson Study for Assessment is and where it originated. * How educational psychologists, teachers, and school leaders can work collaboratively to improve learning. * Why psychology and pedagogy should be viewed as complementary disciplines. * How lesson study can support inclusion without becoming tokenistic. * Ways to use peer relationships and collaboration to strengthen learning outcomes. * How schools can develop meaningful and measurable targets for pupils with additional needs. Why This Episode Matters As schools work to create more inclusive learning environments, collaboration has never been more important. Lesson Study for Assessment provides a practical way for teachers, psychologists, and school leaders to work together, better understand pupils' needs, and design learning that supports everyone. When professionals think and plan together, children are more likely to feel included, valued, and able to succeed. 🎧 Listen now and discover how psychology and pedagogy can work together to create better learning opportunities for every child. Connect with Me Instagram: @‌dradammcartney [https://www.instagram.com/dradammcartney/] Website: dradammccartney.com [https://www.dradammccartney.com/] YouTube: @‌Dr.AdamMcCartney [https://www.youtube.com/@Dr.AdamMcCartney]