Trials for Teachers
There are things that keep teachers awake at night
Student, teacher or parent conflicts, well-being red flags, and moments of crisis. In schools, educators must respond effectively to these challenges in an ever- shifting landscape.
In ‘Trials for Teachers’, educators, school leaders and well-being practitioners take on curve-ball scenarios from everyday school life, and in the process, highlight positive approaches to well-being.
Note: The information provided in this podcast is intended for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, HR, or official administrative advice. The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are purely personal and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or sentiments of their respective employers, schools, or associated businesses. Listeners are encouraged to consult their own school’s specific policies and local regulations when resolving school incidents.
Developed, recorded and published on Wadawurrung Country.
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Episodes
4 days ago
4 days ago
Today's Scenario:
Staff have noticed an uptick in students arriving at school without breakfast or with very minimal lunches. These students are often lethargic by 10:00 AM and show increased irritability during learning tasks. While the school has a small emergency cupboard, the need is outstripping the current supply.
GUEST: BEN SHIELDS (Primary School Principal with the Diocese of Ballarat)
Referenced in this discussion: SA Government Research on Breakfast skipping: https://www.education.sa.gov.au/docs/support-and-inclusion/student,-health-and-disability-support/breakfast-skipping-among-children-and-adolescents-in-south-australia.pdf
Monday May 04, 2026
Monday May 04, 2026
Today's Scenario:
Over the weekend, a well-known family in the local community, The Smiths, who have three children at the school, are involved in a serious house fire. While everyone is physically safe, they have lost all their possessions and are temporarily without accommodation. News is spreading rapidly through parent WhatsApp groups and many parents are reaching out, offering support. The class teachers of the children are particularly worried about how they can support them and navigate the circumstances in class.
GUEST: BEN SHIELDS (Primary School Principal with the Diocese of Ballarat)
Referenced in this discussion: Trauma-informed practice. Further reading: https://www.mentalhealthaustralia.org.au/articles/news/trauma-informed-practice/
Sunday Apr 19, 2026
Sunday Apr 19, 2026
Today's Scenario:
David, a 14-year-old in Year 9, frequently misinterprets social cues. He tries to join peer groups by dominating conversations, often stands too close to others, and struggles to understand why his humor sometimes offends his classmates. This leads to him being consistently excluded from group activities, resulting in significant feelings of loneliness and low self-esteem. Several parents have requested that their child is not placed in future classes with David as a result.
GUEST: ASHLEIGH DALTON (Practice Director and Senior Occupational Therapist with Connected Kids) https://www.connectedkid.com.au/
Referenced in this discussion: Social Involvement of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Elementary School Classrooms (2010) Rotherham-Fuller, Kasari, Chamberlain, Locke.
Monday Mar 30, 2026
Monday Mar 30, 2026
Today's Scenario:
Liam, an 10-year-old in Grade 4 , frequently has intense, unmanageable outbursts when he perceives an instruction as unfair or when he makes a mistake. These episodes involve yelling, throwing objects, and sometimes aggression towards peers and also teaching staff. The school is considering a suspension due to the frequency and severity of the incidents.
GUEST: ASHLEIGH DALTON (Practice Director and Senior Occupational Therapist with Connected Kids) https://www.connectedkid.com.au/
Referenced in this discussion: Bill Rogers. Read more about Bill's approach to behaviour management here: https://tinyurl.com/2bd94wx4
Tuesday Mar 17, 2026
Tuesday Mar 17, 2026
Today's scenario:
Maya, a 6-year-old in Grade 1, dreads the school gym. The combination of loud sounds, moving people and objects, and unpredictable routines causes her significant distress. She often retreats under seating or nearby bathrooms and covers her ears, leading to isolation and missed social opportunities. Teachers struggle to help her regulate when she enters this state.
GUEST: ASHLEIGH DALTON (Practice Director and Senior Occupational Therapist with Connected Kids) https://www.connectedkid.com.au/
Referenced in this discussion: Ross Greene and CPS. Further Reading https://livesinthebalance.org/our-solution/