Principal Catch-Ups

In a world of screens, the joy of reading can sometimes take a back seat. In today’s episode with SMC Librarian, Lauren Thow, we delve into the topic of reading. We chat about what we can do to encourage children to read for pleasure, the stereotypes around ‘proper books’ vs other forms of reading. We also touch on dyslexia, and how technology is not always bad when it come to reading.  

This episode was recorded live at our second annual ESMS Wellbeing Conference, where over 100 educators from across Scotland came together to explore wellbeing in schools. You might recognise Dr Susan Woodshore from our previous episode - she’s not only the driving force behind this conference but also a key leader of many wellbeing initiatives at ESMS. In our last conversation, Susan spoke about the vital role of community. In this episode, we’re sharing a short extract from her seminar on Belonging, featuring insights from research conducted with our own students. 

Anxiety in children is on the rise and its impact is being felt across homes and classrooms. In this episode, we take a closer look at what’s been called the “anxiety epidemic” facing children across the UK. Why are so many young people struggling, and what can we do about it? 

In an age where screen time is rising, the value of outdoorplay and learning has never been more important. In this episode, Anthony sits down with Head of Outdoor Learning at ESMS, David Ogilvie. They explore the role outdoor learning plays, how it helps to shape well-rounded children, and what parents can do at home to encourage a sense of curiosity and adventure in the great outdoors. 

Financial education is about so much more than understanding numbers and counting pennies (or more likely watching the balance change on your Go Henry App!). In this episode Anthony sits down with Katie Ridland, Chair of Governors for ESMS and owner of Ridland Wealth Management Ltd, a firm specialising in financial planning for families and small businesses. They chat about how we can ensure we are raising financially savvy children, the rise of the ‘finfluencer’, tips for parents about how to talk about money at home and much more.  

In this first episode, Anthony sits down with Rachel Hewitt, Head of Digital Learning for ESMS Junior School. They explore the challenges smartphones present, the benefits of delaying getting your child a smartphone, and what we can do to support parents navigating these tricky waters.