STEM Conversations

Ep. 14 - Teaching the Classroom We Have Today: Practical Teacher Tips

If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair 🪑In episode 14, we speak with Helen Maddison Neill, Senior Lecturer of Primary Education at Edge Hill University. Helen reminds us that it doesn't matter how many times we feel like we've 'done this before', there's huge value in reaffirming what we know, learning from lived experience, and continuing to grow with the times.Sometimes that means giving the spotlight to our student teachers as the newest perspectives can come from the newest voices.Discussing the changing landscape of classroom environments, with almost 1 in 5 pupils in England now identified as having SEND.From trying to hide her hearing impairment earlier in her career to receiving a late dyslexia diagnosis, Helen shares honest lived experiences alongside invaluable advice for both trainee and established teachers navigating inclusive classrooms today.

Ep. 13 - Critical Thinking Starts With Getting It Wrong: Practical Teacher Tips

In this episode of STEM Conversations, we meet with Paul Tyler, whose career spans biochemist, primary teacher and now content curator at Smart Stems. We discuss the importance of being comfortable with failure in building effective problem-solving skills. We explore how embracing failure contributes to critical thinking and fosters a resilient approach to STEM education.Engineering is more than just building models; it’s a way of thinking. Joined by Paul Tyler, we look at how to move beyond "step-by-step" crafts and help students develop the Engineering Habits of Mind needed for real-world success.We cover productive failure, oracy and talk, sustainable STEM and skill acquisition. Whether you're looking to reduce classroom mess or boost student engagement, this episode provides actionable strategies to transform your STEM teaching.

Ep. 12 -From Physics to Educational Publishing

In this episode of STEM Conversations, Matteo Orsini-Jones shares his unique journey from studying physics to founding his own educational publishing company, Orso. He discusses the importance of exploring alternative career paths in STEM, the challenges of traditional teaching roles, and the lessons learned from working with established publishers. Matteo emphasizes the value of company culture, the iterative nature of science, and encourages listeners to pursue their passions without feeling boxed in by conventional expectations. He concludes with practical advice for those considering non-traditional pathways in their careers.

Ep. 11 - Women in STEM and the Power of Representation

In episode 11 of STEM Conversations, Sarah and Ash are joined by Sarah Mills, former Analytical Chemist at AstraZeneca, Head of Science, and now Beyond Secondary Segment Manager at Twinkl.We explore her journey into STEM, the challenges and stereotypes women face, the power of role models, and how educators can create more inclusive spaces where every student feels confident to pursue science, technology, engineering and maths.We talk about: Women in STEM careersRepresentation and role modelsOvercoming stereotypesBuilding inclusive STEM classrooms

Ep. 10 - From the Army to the Classroom: What STEM Education Gets Wrong

In this episode of STEM Conversations, Sarah and Ash speak with Fair Metcalfe, who shares her unique journey from military service to education. With over 13 years of teaching experience and a focus on learning support for dyslexic army recruits, Fair discusses the importance of challenging stereotypes in STEM, the impact of her military background on her teaching methods, and the need for inclusivity in education. She emphasises the value of diverse perspectives in STEM fields and the necessity of early intervention for students with learning barriers. The conversation highlights the significance of representation and the role of curiosity in fostering future scientists.