In this episode of Education in Focus, we are joined by Michael. Michael is an experienced teacher, having spent the majority of his teaching career working in Early Years (Reception and Nursery). He is also a foster parent and has some insight into the challenges and rewards of looking after children who have experienced some early life trauma. This also informs his approach to supporting children and their families in schools. The episode explores why the early years are s...
May 12
47 min
In this episode, we’re talking about school trips and residentials those memorable experiences many of us remember from our own school days. But for adopted children and those with additional needs, these opportunities can come with unique challenges. Residential trips and school visits can feel daunting, but with good communication, preparation and flexibility, they can also become powerful opportunities for growth, confidence and connection. If you enjoyed this episode we'd love...
Mar 19
38 min
In this episode, we chat with Jo, an adopter and home educator, about the unexpected journey she and her partner took to support their son's well-being. After witnessing the impact mainstream school had on their child, Jo made the courageous decision to step away from the traditional system and embrace home education. She shares their honest, heartfelt story from the challenges they faced early on to the research that guided their decision. Jo offers valuable insights,...
Sep 2, 2025
1 hr 19 min
In this episode, we explore the growing presence of Artificial Intelligence in our everyday lives especially in classrooms and at home. Joined by Lisa and Jason, we discuss how AI can support children's learning, how parents can use it safely, and how to help kids think critically about what they see online. Packed with practical advice and clear insights, this episode is a must-listen for any parent navigating the digital world.
Jul 24, 2025
45 min
We’re thrilled to be joined in this episode by one of our amazing adopters, Raun. With over 15 years of experience as a SENDCO and senior schoolteacher, Raun brings a wealth of insight from both an educational and personal perspective. After stepping away from teaching to adopt, Raun returned to work in education this time supporting families by writing EHCPs and working with a local authority. Raun talks about what the role of a SENDCO really involves, how families can seek help from ...
Jun 30, 2025
48 min
In this episode, Leigh is joined by Lisa and Jason, to talk about school avoidance, why it happens and what parents and schools can do to support children. We hope this episode helps anyone listening to think a bit deeper about school avoidance and maybe generated some ideas of how parents or schools could help young people. If you have any questions or you think you could do with some support then please don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected]
Apr 8, 2025
32 min
In our latest episode Leigh, Lisa and Jason are discussing reduced timetables. These are used for several reasons, health needs, mental health needs and sometimes due to behaviour. Leigh, Lisa and Jason talk about what they are, when should they or shouldn't they been used and how you can help manage things with school. We'd love to hear what you thought about this episode or if you have a topic, you'd like us to explore, you can get in touch here: Email our podcast team on education@...
Oct 30, 2024
30 min
Leigh, Lisa and Jason discuss how you can improve your child's self-esteem and find alternative ways to encourage them not to feel shame. They talk about the types of behaviours shame can manifest into, how shame can make your child feel and react and how best to advocate for your child at school to help combat feelings of shame. We'd love to hear what you thought about this episode or if you have a topic you'd like us to explore you can get in touch here: education@adopti...
Oct 1, 2024
1 hr
In the latest edition of our podcast Education in Focus, Leigh, Lisa and Jason discuss unstructured break time in school. The unpredictable nature of play times and break times can often be stressful for some children. In this episode, the team talk about what you as parents can ask your school to do to help. The idea for the topic for this episode came from one of our listeners. If you have any suggestions or requests for specific topics we'd love to hear from you. Email our podcast team ...
Sep 2, 2024
47 min
During this episode Leigh, Lisa and Jason talk about Pupil Premium Plus, what it is, what it's for and how you can apply for it. If you've adopted with Adoption Focus and would like to speak about your experiences, please email us at [email protected]. If you have any requests for podcast topics you’d like us to cover, we'd love to get those too.
Jul 29, 2024
32 min
Load more