Two Heads Are Better Than One

• What makes a great lesson?

  "Everybody should start at the same point." In this episode of 'Two Heads are Better Than One', Rod Grant and Cameron Wyllie sit down and chat with education expert with Bruce Robertson, CEO of Next Level Educational and former head teacher at Berwickshire High School. Starting with some listener feedback and teaching stories, like the time 5 P7 pupils were excluded on day for scraping and asking should you suspend pupils for swearing at teachers? But the key theme to this conversation is what constitutes a great lesson? Bruce shares insights from his extensive experience in education, emphasising the need for clarity in curriculum, the significance of engaging lessons, and the necessity of professional development for teachers. They highlight the challenges and opportunities within the educational landscape, advocating for a more informed and collaborative approach to teaching and learning. Key Insight: Clarity is key! Teachers must be clear about what students need to learn to foster real understanding. Key Takeaways: A great lesson starts with clear learning intentions. Engagement in lessons is essential for student interest. Curriculum clarity is vital for effective teaching. Differentiation should focus on outcomes, not just ability groups. Success in learning is a key motivator for students. Professional reading helps teachers make informed decisions.   Chapters   00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 02:47 Discipline and Consequences in Schools 05:56 Restorative Practices vs. Sanctions 09:01 Parental Support and School Decisions 11:49 Feedback and Perspectives on Education 16:46 What Makes a Great Lesson? 29:37 Curriculum Clarity and Content 38:50 Final Tips for Effective Teaching We'd love to hear your thoughts, stories and questions about schools and education today. Email or send us a voice note to [email protected] 

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• Violence in Schools

  "If young people don’t learn that actions have consequences, we’re failing them — not just now, but in their future lives.”   Former head teachers Rod Grant and Cameron Wyllie ask how do you tackle violence and abuse in the classroom? Violent incidents in Scottish schools have risen by 53% according to the latest EIS report. In this episode of Two Heads Are Better Than One, they discuss: Why many teachers avoid reporting abuse — and how vague definitions of “violence” distort the data. Rod and Cameron share vivid, sometimes humorous memories of corporal punishment in their own schooldays — the “tawse,” cold-water regrets, and the accidental self-belting teacher. A serious discussion on balance: how Scotland moved from physical punishment to restorative practice — and why many educators say the new approach is failing. The crisis of classroom safety: from verbal aggression to shocking stories of violence, and the toll on teachers’ mental health. Exploring solutions — should disruptive pupils be taught online or in specialist units? Should there be clearer sanctions for violence? Why “mainstreaming” may have gone too far — and how it’s affecting both learning and teacher morale. A call to action for teachers and school leaders to share their real experiences, anonymously if necessary, to inform the debate on reform. We'd love to hear your thoughts, stories and questions about schools and education today. Email or send us a voice note to [email protected] 

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• What Makes a School Great?

  What makes a school truly great? Join Rod Grant and Cameron Wyllie as they explore the art and craft of teaching, the power of teacher autonomy, and the balance between discipline and care that shapes thriving school communities. In this episode, they dive into:   Why teaching is more than just a science—it’s a craft fueled by passion. How strong relationships and collegiality impact both teachers and students. The importance of a knowledge-rich curriculum and structured environments. How extracurricular activities support student growth and development. Whether you’re a teacher, school leader, or education enthusiast, this episode offers insightful strategies and real-world reflections on creating schools where everyone thrives.     Listen, learn, and discover what makes a school great.     Key Takeaways: Teaching is both an art and a craft. Autonomy fuels great teaching. A positive school ethos blends structure with care. Students flourish in knowledge-rich, community-minded environments. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to School Leadership Insights 00:54 – The Art and Craft of Teaching 04:14 – The Role of Collegiality in Teaching 08:22 – The Importance of Teacher Autonomy 10:11 – Teacher Training and Qualifications 12:32 – The Need for Practical Teacher Training 16:46 – Creating a Positive School Ethos 20:04 – Discipline and Pastoral Care in Schools 25:14 – The Knowledge-Rich Curriculum 27:51 – Extracurricular Activities and Student Development     We'd love to hear your thoughts, stories and questions about schools and education today. Email or send us a voice note to [email protected] 

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