The Learning Network Podcast: Recent Episodes
Kelly Bell
Ever wish you had a coach and mentor with over 17 years of experience in teaching Community & Family Studies sharing secrets to success? That's exactly what you will find right here when you tune in every week to The Learning Network Podcast. I will guide you through best practice to improve knowledge, increase empowerment and alleviate stress to help you and your students to make meaningful connections in Community & Family Studies.
Early on it was just me, the syllabus and a textbook! I had NO IDEA what I was doing. TRUST ME. Fast forward to now, I support 1000s of CAFS teachers and students inside The Learning Network through my membership, coaching & mentoring, online courses and MasterClasses. My dream to help CAFS teachers full-time has become a reality!
I will share strategic and purposeful applications that I have adopted to increase student motivation, enjoyment, engagement and results; right from the get go. Whether you are a Newbie or Experienced, I have supported CAFS teachers like you to grow and transform their CAFS journey over the last 10 years.
If you are ready to take your CAFS Crew to the next level without impacting your sleep and wellbeing in the process, you’re in the right place! Find out more at thelearnnet.com
Your students know the content. So why are they still losing marks?
It's rarely knowledge. It's the verb. A student who can define stroke volume and list the principles of training still drops marks when they describe a question that said analyse, or explain one that asked them to evaluate. Same Health and Movement Science content, wrong job.
With 2026 the first HSC under the new Health and Movement Science syllabus and no past papers to benchmark against, the key word is the clearest signal your students have about what a marker wants. This episode breaks down what separates an Explain from an Analyse, why a conclusion isn't a judgement and the two confusions that cost marks in every focus area for Health and Movement Science. Plus an activity you can run tomorrow to make the difference visible in your students' own writing.
Take the guesswork out at thelearnnet.com/hms.
Your Health and Movement Science students know the content. So why aren't the marks landing?
You've seen it. Your Health and Movement Science students write a full page and get three out of six. They describe when the question said analyse. They talk about "a sport" without ever naming one. And when you hand the paper back, they tell you all the things they meant to say.
After 16 years of HSC marking, I can tell you it's almost never the knowledge.
It's four things Health and Movement Science students do the moment the paper is in front of them and every one of them is teachable before October.
In this episode I'm naming four common mistakes I have been seeing Health and Movement Science students make and what to do about each one.
Everything you need to fix them is already built and waiting inside The HMS Membership: thelearnnet.com/hms
Ever stood on the oval on a Wednesday, 28 kids in front of you and thought "I have no idea if I am teaching this properly"?
You are not alone. And you are not the problem.
Whether every primary teacher likes it or not, PDHPE is one of our KLAs.
But just because PDHPE has link to sport doesn't mean you discount it.
Whether you a primary teacher or primary PE specialist in NSW, the new K-6 PDHPE syllabus is here and we are about to teach it.
For the last 150 years PE has had a bad rap in NSW, but we are here to change that with you.
This episode provides key changes and shifts from the 2018 to the 2024 K-6 PDHPE syllabus.
The BIG message is this: Fundamental Movement Skills are the backbone to effective PE.
If you want resources, ideas and activities to teach them explicitly:
If you are looking for support in NSW
head to thelearnnet.com/primary
Outside of NSW? Across the globe
head to thelearnnet.com/pe
Feeling a bit rusty when it comes to teaching sex ed? You are not alone.
Teaching sexual health and respectful relationships is one of the trickiest parts of 7-10 PDHPE. Students are arriving with earlier and heavier exposure than ever, the questions are getting harder and many of us are trying to teach this content without feeling fully confident or up to date on best practice.
This week on The PDHPE and CAFS Podcast, Kelly Bell sits down with Carolyn, a PDHPE and HMS teacher and trained Love Bites facilitator, for an honest, practical conversation about teaching this content with clarity and confidence.
Here is what is in it for you:
- How to move from "having a chat" to explicit skill-building that starts with the syllabus and outcomes
- What a trauma-informed classroom actually looks like
- Why you connect with students in a way no one-off wellbeing day ever can
You will walk away informed on current best practice, clearer on how to structure respectful relationships teaching across 7-10 PDHPE and with real resources you can put to work this term.
Still teaching food with red, orange and green? There might be a better way.
This week on The PDHPE and CAFS Podcast, we are rethinking how we teach food and nutrition in our primary classrooms, and why the language we use matters more than we think.
Kate McGill is back, and this time we are talking food. We get into the trouble with the traffic light system, why good and bad food labels inject shame into eating, and how to help your students build a peaceful relationship with all foods.
In this episode:
- There are no bad foods, only foods with different functions
- The trouble with sometimes foods and moralistic language
- Teaching food as fuel, fun, celebration and connection
- The RAVES model, focusing on the how, not just the what
- What to say when you hear disordered food talk in your classroom
If you teach K-6 PDHPE, or primary generally, this conversation will change the way you talk about food with your students.
The Missed Opportunity in Every HMS and CAFS Classroom
There is one task sitting in both your HMS and CAFS courses that quietly decides how ready your students are for Year 12. Most of us are wasting it.
It is the big student-led research task: the Collaborative Investigation in HMS, the Independent Research Project in CAFS. We hand students total freedom too early, they pick a topic that sounds exciting but goes nowhere, and a whole term of research skill-building lands on content they will never be assessed on.
In this episode, Kelly shares the 5-point test for a topic that actually works, one that sits firmly in the syllabus, generates real data and bridges straight into Year 12 thinking.
HMS teachers, if you are looking for resources that bring this to life,
join us inside The HMS Membership at
thelearnnet.com/hms.
CAFS teachers, find your resources and community at
thelearnnet.com/collective.
Some of the most common things we do in Health and Movement Science look like solid teaching, but they're quietly costing our kids marks.
In this episode I'm walking you through the four biggest culprits I see again and again: teaching content without bringing it to life, death by PowerPoint, examples that are too generic and the one hurting kids most in year one of the new syllabus, not knowing the difference between the key words.
Here's the thing. These aren't lazy-teacher mistakes. They're busy-teacher mistakes. Every one of them happens when you're stretched thin and reaching for what's quick, and every one of them is fixable.
With 2026 being the first HSC under the new Health and Movement Science syllabus and no past papers to lean on, the margin for error is smaller than ever. So let's name what's getting in the way, then sort out how to fix it.
Explore The HMS Membership: thelearnnet.com/hms
Join us at The HMS Summit: thelearnnet.com/summit
Body image is not just a high school issue. It starts younger than most of us realise.
This week on The PDHPE and CAFS Podcast, Kelly Bell sits down with Kate McGill, accredited practising dietitian, body image coach and presenter with the Butterfly Foundation. Kate brings warmth, lived experience and real expertise to a conversation that matters for every classroom, from Kindergarten right through to Year 12.
We talk about how to open up positive, age appropriate conversations about bodies with our youngest students. We unpack why the language we use as teachers matters so much, the everyday phrases that can do quiet harm and how to shift the focus from appearance to what our bodies let us do every day.
You'll hear about:
- How body image develops far earlier than we think and why early conversations matter
- The language traps teachers fall into without meaning to, and how to reframe them
- Why body dissatisfaction affects boys and girls, in the city and the country
- How the new NSW K to 10 PDHPE syllabus gives us common language to teach this well
- Whether you're a primary teacher or a high school PDHPE teacher juggling welfare and wellbeing, this episode will leave you better equipped to support the whole child.
Drug education is in your 7-10 PDHPE program. But what does the evidence actually say works with Stage 4 and 5 students?
Kelly sits down with Associate Professor Emily Stockings from the Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use at the University of Sydney to talk about vaping, prevention and what PDHPE teachers can do right now in their 7-10 PDHPE classroom.
They unpack why vaping spread so rapidly through NSW schools, why scare tactics consistently fall flat with teenagers and what evidence-based prevention actually looks like in practice. Emily also walks through the free Our Futures Vaping Prevention program for Years 7 and 8, already in over 1,000 schools across Australia.
Practical, research-backed and directly relevant to your PDHPE program.
Resources mentioned:
Our Futures Institute: ourfuturesinstitute.org.au
The 7-10 PDHPE Membership: thelearnnet.com/secondary
Most primary teachers were never taught how to teach PE. They were handed a ball, pointed at an oval and told to get on with it. So it is no wonder that so many feel underprepared, under-resourced and unsure of what a good lesson even looks like.
This episode changes that.
Kelly breaks down the five elements of an excellent primary PE lesson, from fundamental movement skills to student leadership, equipment, space and joy. Grounded in Australian research and the new PDHPE K-6 Syllabus 2024, this is the practical, honest conversation that primary teachers have needed for a long time.
Show notes and resources: thelearnnet.com/174
Want resources and support? thelearnnet.com/primary
If you and your Health and Movement Science students are picking Collaborative Investigation topics that feel disconnected from the rest of the course, this episode is for you.
The CI is one of the most powerful tasks in Year 11 Health and Movement Science but only when the topic is chosen well. In this episode, Kelly walks you through 8 content-connected CI topic ideas, 4 from Focus Area 1 and 4 from Focus Area 2, that don't just meet the Year 11 requirements. They actively build the knowledge and research skills your students need heading into Year 12.
You will learn how to help students choose a topic that sits firmly in the Year 11 Health and Movement Science syllabus, generates real primary data and scaffolds forward into Year 12 content. Kelly also shares a suggested CI Focus Question for each topic so you can hand this straight to your students.
Download the free resource mentioned in this episode at thelearnnet.com/ci
Learn more about The HMS Membership with The Learning Network at thelearnnet.com/hms
In this episode of The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast with Kelly Bell, Kelly is joined by PDHPE mentors Lyndelle Batten and Tara Steinbeck to unpack the new K-6 and 7-10 PDHPE syllabuses for NSW teachers.
Designed for busy educators, this episode explores key syllabus changes, practical planning strategies, and ways to reimagine PDHPE with a stronger focus on movement, health, wellbeing, respectful relationships and lifelong physical activity.
Kelly also acknowledges the pressure teachers are facing during curriculum reform and offers encouragement, clarity, and classroom-ready support to help teachers feel more confident as they prepare for implementation.
This week on The PDHPE and CAFS Podcast, we’re sharing a special repurposed interview where Kell joined Ash from Rainbow Sky Creations to talk all things movement, primary PDHPE and classroom confidence.
If you’ve ever thought, “I’m not sporty” or felt nervous about teaching PE, this episode is for you. Kell unpacks why physical education is not the same as sport, how simple movement breaks can support student focus and wellbeing, and why small, practical shifts can make PDHPE feel far less overwhelming for busy NSW primary teachers (some gems in there for high school PDHPE too).
You’ll walk away with fresh encouragement, simple ideas you can use straight away, and a reminder that movement does not need to be complicated to make an impact.
This week on The PDHPE and CAFS Podcast, I’m joined by Jade Wholohan from Netball NSW and we’re unpacking how to confidently bring netball into your PDHPE lessons, even if you don't love netball or have not played it before.
We talk about where to start, how to simplify the rules and why netball is one of the most powerful ways to build teamwork, fundamental movement skills and student confidence in both primary and high school settings.
Jade shares practical strategies, simple game ideas and how to foster a love of movement through the lens of netball with your students.
In this episode, I share what I’d do differently if I started teaching Community and Family Studies and Health and Movement Science because now I have clarity on what actually improves student learning.
We unpack the shift from doing more to doing what works, moving from covering content to teaching students how to think, apply and respond, and from constantly creating new lessons to refining the strategies that actually improve HSC responses.
This is also a conversation about sustainability. Because burnout doesn’t just come from workload it comes from putting time and energy into things that don’t move learning forward. If you’re feeling stretched, overwhelmed or unsure where to focus, this episode will help you strip it back.
Tired of feeling like you’re drowning in content delivery and your students are disengaged? In this episode, I’m sharing the 5 power moves every CAFS teacher should know: the strategies that transform your classroom from “copy, memorise, repeat” to dynamic, high-impact learning.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- Why you should stop making your kids copy notes (and what to do instead)
- How to ditch the textbook and use done-for-you resources that actually work
- The key to bringing CAFS to life so students stay engaged and curious
- Why linking examples back to students isn’t enough and how real case studies change everything
- How to scaffold and model writing with the Glossary of Key Words so your students succeed with confidence
These 5 strategies will help you simplify your prep, save time and most importantly create impact in your CAFS classroom.
Ever wondered what really separates a Band 4, 5 and 6 in Community and Family Studies? After years of marking thousands of CAFS responses and serving as the NSW Supervisor of Marking: I’ve seen the hidden shifts in what CAFS markers are looking for and where students consistently fall short. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain to share exactly what you need to be doing now in your CAFS classroom to set your students up for success. You’ll discover: - Why relying on acronyms alone won’t get your students across the line - The subtle changes in student CAFS responses that markers reward - The biggest traps teachers still unintentionally reinforce in class - Practical strategies you can embed straight away to help your students climb into those top bands This isn’t theory. It’s not guesswork. It’s insider advice from the former NSW CAFS Supervisor of Marking: the kind of perspective most teachers never get to hear. If you want to future-proof your teaching and give your students the edge they need, this episode is your roadmap.
Every Community and Family Studies teacher wants their students hitting Band 5 and 6, but few know the exact difference between a strong response and an exceptional one. In this episode of Band 5 & 6 Unlocked, I pull back the curtain on the markers’ expectations and reveal the secrets behind top-Band responses that most teachers across the State never get access to.
You’ll learn: ✅ The defining features that separate average answers from Band 5 & 6 excellence ✅ Practical strategies you can embed straight into your teaching to lift student performance ✅ How to position your students to not just reach, but consistently stay ahead of the State Average
If you’re ready to stop guessing and start leading your students into the top bands, this episode is your roadmap.
Shownotes: www.thelearnnet.com/151
In this episode, we dive into the top five recurring mistakes Community and Family Studies (CAFS) students are still making year after year. From not planning their answers (hello, RUNFAR method!) to missing those crucial Glossary of Key Words and mixing up key concepts, we’ll break down exactly what goes wrong and how to fix it. Plus, I’ll share some handy resources and acronyms to help your students nail their examples and link everything back to wellbeing. Tune in for some practical strategies to help your CAFS students shine! 🎁 FREEBIE & Shownotes: www.thelearnnet.com/150
The brand new Child Studies syllabus has just landed in NSW, and in this episode (recorded live from a recent webinar) I help you cut through the overwhelm and focus on what really matters.
I’ve spent hours diving into the changes so you don’t have to, and in this episode I walk you through:
- What’s in and what’s out of the new syllabus
- The major changes you need to know, including reduced outcomes, embedded Aboriginal perspectives and new performance band descriptors
- How to strategically plan for implementation so you and your faculty feel confident, not stressed
- Why this syllabus is a great opportunity to refresh, reimagine and better prepare our students
If you’re feeling nervous about “yet another syllabus,” you’re not alone. But with the right approach (and some ready-to-go resources I’ve created), you can tackle these changes without sacrificing your time, energy or wellbeing.
This is your first step towards navigating the new Child Studies syllabus with clarity and confidence.
Grab the shownotes & resources at: www.thelearnnet.com/149
In this live-recorded webinar, I dive deep into the recent changes to the ACE Manual and what they mean for NSW teachers delivering Year 12 Health and Movement Science in Term 3 and beyond.
We unpack the implications of the updated rules on assessment structure, flexibility, and expectations and answer pressing questions from teachers across NSW navigating this brand-new HSC course.
Whether you're a Head Teacher, new to Stage 6, or juggling multiple syllabus updates, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence you need to move forward.
Key Takeaways:
- A clear breakdown of the ACE Manual updates impacting Year 12 HMS
- What’s in, what’s out and what’s now flexible in internal assessment
- Clarification on the Collaborative Investigation (CI) and Depth Studies
- Insights on assessment task types, weightings and school-based decision making
Shownotes: www.thelearnnet.com/148 👉 Ready to get the support you deserve to navigate this new course? Join us in the only ongoing support for HMS Teachers in NSW: www.thelearnnet.com/hms
The new Health and Movement Science syllabus has left many NSW teachers feeling overwhelmed, underprepared and time-poor. But for Lucy Pearce, an experienced PDHPE educator working part-time in a regional school, the game-changer has been The Learning Network’s HMS Membership.
In this episode of The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast, Lucy shares her powerful story of returning to senior PDHPE after a decade, navigating new content while balancing life as a careers advisor and parent. From advocating for HMS to be taught face-to-face in her regional Catholic school to leaning heavily on ready-made resources and unit outlines, Lucy opens up about how support from The Learning Network has helped her
✔️ Confidently teach Health and Movement Science without starting from scratch ✔️ Deliver engaging, syllabus-aligned lessons while juggling other roles ✔️ Build strong student connections in a small senior class setting ✔️ Save hours of prep with assessment templates, slides and resource booklets ✔️ Feel part of a wider community of like-minded teachers
Whether you’re just starting out with HMS or deep in the trenches of assessment and planning, Lucy’s story is a reminder that you don’t have to do it alone.
🎧 Tune in now to hear how she’s rewriting the HMS experience for her students and how The Learning Network can help you do the same. Shownotes: www.thelearnnet.com/147
Feeling confused about the latest changes to HMS and CAFS assessment requirements? You’re not alone. In this episode of The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast, I dive into the recent NESA updates and unpack exactly what NSW teachers need to know to strengthen assessment practices in Stage 6 HMS. We explore:
- Key changes from the ACE Manual and what they mean for you
- Whether the Collaborative Investigation and IRP are still compulsory
- How to maintain the spirit of the syllabus while working within new guidelines
- My tips for setting your students up for exam success in Term 3 and beyond
If you're looking for clarity, direction and confidence with assessment in HMS this episode is your go-to guide.
🎧 Tune in now and feel supported every step of the way.
📚 Grab the shownotes & resources at: www.thelearnnet.com/146
In this episode of The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast, I’m joined by the incredible Lisa Highfill—co-creator of the HyperDoc Handbook and a true trailblazer in digital lesson design, virtual learning, and student-led education. Lisa shares her journey from 5th grade teacher to instructional coach, and now back in the classroom as a middle school teacher at Pleasanton Virtual Academy. We dive into: ✅ How HyperDocs amplify learning through digital inquiry ✅ Why student voice and agency must take centre stage, and; ✅ How AI and project-based learning are transforming classrooms... virtual or not. Whether you're teaching in a traditional school or through distance education, this is a must-listen for NSW primary & high school PDHPE teachers ready to move beyond worksheets and give students real ownership of their learning. Episode Shownotes: www.thelearnnet.com/145
In this solo episode, I take a moment to pause and reflect on what has been one of the wildest terms yet. From growing conversations around teacher burnout to media headlines painting a bleak picture of the profession... this episode is about flipping the script. As someone who spent 14 years in a Western Sydney classroom, I’ve seen first-hand the heart, hustle and impact of NSW teachers. Despite the challenges, there are thousands of teachers showing up, making a difference and quietly rewriting the narrative every single day. I share a few of their stories, along with my own reflections on community, gratitude and the power of connection in education. It’s raw, honest and a reminder of why you got into teaching in the first place.
So before you switch off for the holidays... tune in. This one’s for you 🤍🙏 Grab the shownotes: www.thelearnnet.com/144
In this episode, I sit down with legendary educator and author Jay McTighe, co-creator of Understanding by Design®, to explore how we can move beyond content coverage and standardised testing to create classrooms focused on deep understanding, authentic transfer and meaningful student learning.
Jay unpacks what it really means to “plan with the end in mind,” why teaching for understanding is the ultimate test preparation and how performance-based assessment and backward design can (and should) transform our classrooms.
Whether you're navigating curriculum reform, supporting HSC students, or just trying to make your lessons more engaging and purposeful this conversation is your roadmap to what great teaching looks like in practice.
We chat about:
- How to balance explicit teaching with student-led inquiry
- Why "test prep" often misses the mark
- What real-world transfer looks like in a Health & Movement Science classroom
- How to shift from teaching content to coaching for performance
- Practical steps for getting started with backward design
- What your students should be able to do with what they’ve learned
Jay’s wisdom will leave you feeling inspired, challenged and more confident than ever in how you show up for your students. Shownotes: thelearnnet.com/143
In this episode, I’m joined by cognitive scientist, educator and all-round powerhouse, Dr Janell Blunt, to unpack one of the most powerful learning strategies you might not be using enough: retrieval practice.
We dive deep into how small changes in your PDHPE, CAFS & Health and Movement Science classroom practice can lead to massive results for your students...without adding more to your plate. From the power of mini whiteboards to demystifying flipped learning, interleaving and active recall, Janell shares practical strategies you can implement tomorrow.
Whether you teach Stage 6 or are looking to improve student outcomes across the board, this conversation will challenge the way you think about memory, revision and the science behind how we learn.
💡 We cover:
- What retrieval practice actually is and why it works
- How to use it daily with zero extra prep
- Misconceptions about effective study habits
- Tips for working with reluctant learners
- Why being your authentic teacher self matters
This one is packed with gold. You’re going to want to take notes and then cover them up and retrieve them later 😉 Check out the shownotes: www.thelearnnet.com/142
In this powerful episode of The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast, I’m joined by world-renowned assessment expert Shirley Clarke to unpack exactly why formative assessment works and how it can be a game-changer in PDHPE, CAFS and HMS classrooms.
We dive into the evolution of formative assessment, explore how co-constructing success criteria boosts student self-efficacy and why in-the-moment feedback leads to deeper learning (and less stress). Shirley shares her biggest insights from working with teachers over the past 20+ years, including how formative assessment strategies are directly linked to reducing student anxiety.
You'll also hear practical ways to embed these strategies...even with tight timelines, mandated summative tasks and heavy content loads.
Whether you're teaching senior CAFS, HMS, K-6 or 7-10 PDHPE, this episode is packed with takeaways to build confident learners and calmer classrooms.
🔁 If you've ever wondered how to get students truly engaged in their learning, without adding to your marking load, this one’s for you. Episode & Shownotes: www.thelearnnet.com141
In this special episode recorded during the 2025 PDHPE Open Week, I’m joined by Lyndelle, our K–6 PDHPE Mentor here at The Learning Network. We take you behind the scenes of the K–6 PDHPE Membership and show exactly what NSW primary school teachers get access to when they join. Lyndelle walks us through the Members Only Google Drive where she’s been building all the essential resources to help our teachers reclaim their time and wellbeing in the classroom. From assessment tasks and schedules, to programs, mapping grids, scope and sequences, and much more. If you want to see how this membership can save you time and support your planning, this episode is for you.
👉 Listen to the full episode at thelearnnet.com/140 📚 For more info on the K–6 PDHPE Membership, head to thelearnnet.com/primary
What if PDHPE didn’t feel so hard? NSW Primary teachers. NSW PDHPE teachers. NSW Schools. We’re doing things differently: no more doing it yourself or last-minute scrambling. In episode #139 of The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast, Kell Bell is taking you inside our PDHPE Memberships, where we support primary & high school teachers with syllabus-aligned resources, practical strategies and real support that reclaims your afternoons, holidays and weekends (not adds to your to-do list). If you're ready to teach PDHPE with confidence, clarity and connection you're in the right place. Come behind the scenes during PDHPE Open Week: thelearnnet.com/openweek For episode show notes: www.thelearnnet.com/139
In this episode of The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast, we bring you a behind-the-scenes listen into a live MasterClass from our Health and Movement Science Membership. We’re joined by experienced Stage 6 teacher Karlee Matthews, who unpacks exactly how she’s navigated the Collaborative Investigation (CI) in Year 11 HMS. From planning and programming to classroom implementation. Karlee breaks down the process she used to scaffold student learning, manage group dynamics and guide her class through a range of research methods like experiments, interviews and observations. You’ll also hear how she aligned the CI with assessment, set her students up for success and the go-to resources she swears by. Plus, we chat about what’s coming up at the HMS Summit and why you seriously won’t want to miss it. 🎧 Listen Now: www.theleaarnnet.com/138 🎟️ Grab all the info for The HMS Summit here: www.thelearnnet.com/summit
In this follow-up conversation on The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast, we’re once again joined by internationally recognised educator and author Holly Clark to unpack the next layer of AI in the classroom.
We go beyond the basics and into the mindset shift needed for today’s educators where being AI-literate is no longer optional. Holly shares:
✅ How AI is evolving beyond “easy buttons” to support deeper thinking
✅ Why embracing AI is a duty of care to our students
✅ Tools like Notebook LM and Brisk that supercharge learning
✅ The link between AI use and teacher wellbeing
✅ A sneak peek into her new book (and why scaffolding AI literacy matters)
If you’re an educator who’s ready to reclaim your time, support diverse learners more effectively and move with the times (not against them), this episode will inspire and equip you to take the next step. 📚 Connect with Holly: hollyclark.org | @hollyclarkedu on socials 🎟️ Want to hear more from Holly? Join her at EDUtech Sydney this June!
🎧 Listen now: www.thelearnnet.com/137
In Episode #136 of The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast, we're joined by global education technology expert and author Holly Clark, live from the U.S. This episode is a must-listen for every educator wondering where AI belongs in their classroom and how to use it without losing the human touch.
Together, we unpack:
- What "student-facing" vs "teacher-facing" AI really means
- Why AI is the ultimate equaliser for learners with diverse needs
- How tools like ChatGPT and SchoolAI can save time, spark ideas and provide real-time feedback
- What AI literacy actually looks like for today’s teacher and why it’s non-negotiable
Holly brings real classroom stories, practical tools and powerful insights for any educator wanting to reclaim their time and amplify their impact. Whether you’re AI-curious or already experimenting, you’ll walk away ready to take the next step with confidence.
🎧 Listen now and for show notes: thelearnnet.com/136
In Episode #135 of The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast, Kell Bell is joined by global education leader Jarrod Robinson (The PE Geek) to explore the power of technology, human connection, and curiosity in today’s PE classrooms.
Jarrod shares insights from working with schools across 35 countries, the impact of COVID on accelerating tech adoption, and how simple tools like video and instant replay can revolutionise physical education. They also discuss why real teaching success isn’t about devices, it’s about relationships, pedagogy, and purposeful innovation.
Whether you’re a tech-lover or a tech-skeptic, this episode will challenge how you think about technology’s role in PE, and leave you with fresh inspiration to rethink, reframe and reignite your passion for teaching.
- Jarrod’s Website – Connected PE https://connectedpe.com → Hub for professional learning, courses, and AI-powered tools for PE teachers globally.
- The PE Geek Website (Jarrod’s original blog) https://thepegeek.com → Archive of classroom tech tips, apps, and early blogging content.
- Jarrod on LinkedIn https://au.linkedin.com/in/thepegeek → For regular insights on AI, edtech, and physical education.
- Interested in our PDHPE Memberships? www.thelearnnet.com/pdhpe → For ongoing support for NSW Primary and High School PDHPE Teachers
🎧 Grab all of the show notes at www.thelearnnet.com/135
In this episode, you’ll discover how to bring meaningful movement into your PDHPE classroom, no matter how small your space or how tight your timetable.
Join Kelly Bell as she shares practical strategies to boost physical activity, lift classroom energy, and align with the new K–10 PDHPE syllabus. You’ll walk away with four simple, effective ways to embed movement into your day, plus a bonus tip on how your classroom setup can support active learning.
Whether you teach primary or secondary PDHPE, this episode will help you reimagine your lessons, re-energise your students, and feel confident delivering movement in any setting. 🎧 Listen to the episode and check out the shownotes here: thelearnnet.com/134
🎟️ Want more support? Join us at the K–10 PDHPE Forum → thelearnnet.com/forum
Wait… that’s actually in the new PDHPE syllabus?
In this episode of The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast, we’re diving into the bold, surprising, and sometimes eyebrow-raising outcomes now included in the new K-6 & 7–10 PDHPE syllabus. From fertility treatments to trajectory and force, this curriculum update is pushing boundaries and opening up some powerful teaching opportunities.
Whether you're feeling curious, confused or completely caught off guard, this episode will help you:
✅ Understand the why behind these unexpected inclusions
✅ Feel more confident about delivering sensitive or science-based content
✅ Get clarity on how to approach these topics in a way that’s engaging and syllabus-aligned
If you’ve been thinking “how do I even teach that?”, you’re not alone and this one’s for you.
🎧 Tune in now and let’s break it down together.
www.thelearnnet.com/133
Assessment in PDHPE doesn’t have to mean endless marking, regurgitated tasks or surface-level recall. In this episode of The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast, we reimagine assessment with a smarter, more strategic approach to give you back your time while improving student outcomes.
Inside this episode, we cover: ✅ How to strategically backwards map assessments to align with skills, outcomes and student growth ✅ What effective feedback really looks like ✅ The role of AI and tech tools to streamline assessment design and reduce marking time ✅ Why we need to stop assessing for the sake of it and start connecting assessments to real-world skills ✅ How our K–6 and 7–10 PDHPE Memberships support you with done-for-you assessments, checklists, scope and sequences, and more
If you're ready to reduce the stress of assessment and deliver tasks that matter, this episode is your new go-to.
🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you tune in. 🔗 Explore our memberships at www.thelearnnet.com/pdhpe
Sport is not PE, and PE is not sport. As PDHPE teachers, we know this, but are we truly delivering explicit movement skills and literacy in our classrooms?
In this episode of The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast, we break down the key explicit skills in the new NSW PDHPE syllabus, focusing on: ✅ The importance of physical literacy & fundamental movement skills across K-6 and 7-10 ✅ Why writing is not literacy and what explicit literacy skills actually look like in PDHPE ✅ How to integrate movement skills effectively, rather than just playing sport for sport’s sake ✅ The biggest challenges PDHPE teachers face with the new syllabus & how to tackle them ✅ How to work smarter, not harder by maximising resources, checklists & teaching strategies We also share practical solutions to help teachers save time, reduce overwhelm, and ensure skill development in PDHPE. If you’re feeling the pressure of syllabus changes, you’re not alone! Tune in to learn how to confidently implement explicit skills in your PDHPE program and empower your students for lifelong movement and health. 🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite podcast app! 🔗 Explore the K-6 & 7-10 PDHPE Memberships: thelearnnet.com/pdhpe
The landscape of PDHPE in NSW is changing. New syllabi, new challenges, and a massive road ahead for teachers. With the release of the K-6 and 7-10 PDHPE syllabi, educators are faced with the reality of juggling multiple curriculum changes, increased workloads, and the ongoing pressure to deliver quality teaching with limited resources.
In this episode of The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast, we break down: ✅ The biggest challenges facing PDHPE teachers today ✅ How to work smarter, not harder when planning & programming ✅ The lack of resources for primary and secondary PDHPE teachers – and how to fix it ✅ The disconnect between PE & PDH and how we can create a holistic approach ✅ The impact of teacher burnout and why reclaiming your time is non-negotiable
We also introduce something game-changing to help with the overload. The launch of the K-6 and 7-10 PDHPE Memberships! These memberships are designed to take the stress off your plate by providing done-for-you programs, assessments, planning tools, and expert support, so you can focus on teaching, not just surviving.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or unsure about how to tackle these changes, this episode is for you. Let’s reimagine PDHPE in NSW together.
🔗 Join the K-6 & 7-10 PDHPE Memberships: thelearnnet.com/pdhpe
🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
In this episode of The PDHPE and CAFS Podcast, we dive into the exciting changes and challenges in delivering PDHPE in primary schools. I’m joined by our K-6 Mentor and experienced primary school teacher, Lyndelle Batten, as we discuss how the new K-6 PDHPE syllabus presents an opportunity to reimagine what PDHPE looks like in New South Wales schools.
We explore: ✅ The key challenges primary teachers face in delivering PDHPE ✅ Why PDHPE is undervalued and how we can change that ✅ The impact of leadership on PDHPE priorities ✅ Practical strategies for embedding fundamental movement skills into daily classroom routines ✅ How to work smarter, not harder when planning and programming ✅ The K-6 PDHPE Membership and how it can support your school.
If you’re a primary teacher, an RFF teacher, or a school leader passionate about elevating PDHPE, this episode is packed with insights and strategies to make PDHPE more accessible, engaging and valued in your school community.
Join us for 3 FREE Live PDHPE Trainings next week (Tuesday March 11 - Thursday March 13 at 8pm via Zoom) to kickstart your PDHPE transformation. Head to thelearnnet.com/week to register for our 3 PDHPE trainings.
Or if you would love to check out the resources and support we chat about in this episode head to thelearnnet.com/pdhpe
✨ Ever wondered how flipping your lesson planning upside down could revolutionise your students' learning experience in PDHPE? Join us as we dive deep into the game-changing world of Backwards Design, where starting with the end in mind transforms not just your PDHPE teaching, but your students' achievement. Discover fresh perspectives and practical strategies that will reshape how you approach your PDHPE planning, teaching and assessment. The Learning Network is here to guide you through this transformative approach that's changing the way we support and teach PDHPE across NSW. ✨ Recommended reading: Understanding by Design by Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe https://www.amazon.com.au/Understanding-Design-Grant-Wiggins/dp/1416600353
What if your PDHPE classroom could be the catalyst for lifelong wellbeing in an increasingly complex world? Step into a fresh perspective on how PDHPE shapes critical thinkers, confident movers and empowered advocates for health. Join Kelly Bell from The Learning Network and to unpack the foundation skills that transform students' lives both online and offline.
Creating an effective lesson in PDHPE, CAFS, HMS, and Dance classes requires a well-structured approach that keeps students engaged and fosters meaningful learning. With over 20 years of experience as an educator, I have developed a framework that ensures lessons are set up for success. The key components of a great lesson include a strong introduction or "hook" to capture students' attention, explicit teaching of content, opportunities for students to apply what they've learned, a structured lesson wrap-up, and a final check for understanding. Common pitfalls in lesson planning can hinder student engagement and comprehension, but this framework helps address those challenges. Whether you're a new or experienced teacher, implementing these strategies can enhance lesson delivery and improve student outcomes. By starting with an engaging hook, balancing direct instruction with active learning, and ensuring students demonstrate understanding before moving forward, lessons become more effective and impactful. Reflecting on your current lesson structure and identifying areas for improvement can lead to more engaging and successful teaching. For additional support, downloadable templates and resources are available at learnit.com/lesson to help implement this approach.
In this episode, I’m joined by dance education expert Kate to discuss the significant curriculum reforms happening in New South Wales and how dance educators can successfully navigate the new 7-10 dance syllabus. We explore the key changes, strategies for implementation, and the importance of building a supportive community of dance teachers to share resources and ideas. As a former dance teacher myself, I understand the challenges of feeling isolated and overwhelmed by curriculum changes. That’s why I’m excited to bring you this conversation filled with practical tips and access to ongoing support to help you thrive in the classroom.
The new 7-10 dance syllabus in NSW marks the most significant curriculum reform in 20 years, affecting both core subjects and electives. It has been simplified, with fewer outcomes and a clearer structure, allowing for greater flexibility in teaching approaches. Successfully navigating these changes involves downloading the syllabus, identifying key updates, and refreshing existing resources to align with the new framework. Additionally, fostering a strong community of dance educators is essential to overcoming isolation and sharing best practices.
To further support teachers, the dance membership program offers comprehensive resources, structured units of work, and ongoing mentorship from an experienced dance educator like Kate. Establishing dance as a serious academic subject requires a well-structured program that highlights the value of dance education. The membership provides a cost-effective solution—equivalent to just two casual teaching days—that ultimately saves time, energy, and enhances overall well-being for busy dance teachers. Whether you're an experienced educator or new to teaching dance, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you adapt and succeed.
We have been busy behind the scenes working on new ways to support our PDHPE community across NSW and it is my pleasure to announce to you that all of our memberships, including our new Dance Membership are open for registration!
We know how precious your time and energy is (and we also know how much time you spend on PD that doesn't hit the mark). You have my absolute promise that our PD is so different to what is out there. I have been developing and presenting PL to teachers since 2010, plus I wrote a major study in my Masters of Educational Leadership on effective PL (I know what is impactful!)
I want you to be absolutely blown away by the level of resources and support that we provide in our memberships, workshops, events and done for your packages & booklets. You will never want to go anywhere else!
Our memberships provide with you the resources and support you need and want to cut back on your prep and planning, especially for our new syllabi.
You may have loved the support we have offered for CAFS & HMS over the last little while and now is it time to get our heads around K-10 PDHPE (plus Dance for our Dance educators!)
It is my goal to support 1000 schools across NSW this year and I want you to be part of that magic. I invite you to have a conversation with your colleagues, advocate yourself and join us in our memberships.
In this episode, I'm excited to take you on a live walkthrough of the brand new HMS, PDHP.net website that we've been working on for the past 6 months. This comprehensive website is packed with resources to help you and your students flourish, including revision questions, learning activities, visuals, and more. I'll guide you through the intuitive navigation, show you the user-friendly design, and share how this website integrates with our HMS membership to create a seamless ecosystem of support. Whether you're a seasoned PDHP and CAFS educator or just starting out, this website is designed to save you time, energy, and give you back your precious weekends and holidays. I'll also share what's coming next, including the addition of Year 12 content, sample answers, and embedded videos. And of course, I'm eager to hear your feedback to ensure we continue improving the site to meet your needs. So grab a cup of tea or coffee and let's dive in! Episode Highlights:
- The new HMS, PDHP.net website is a comprehensive resource hub for PDHP, CAFS, and HMS teachers
- The site features revision questions, learning activities, visuals, and more to support student learning
- The intuitive navigation and user-friendly design make it easy for both teachers and students to use
- The website integrates with HMS memberships, creating a streamlined ecosystem of support
- Year 12 content, sample answers, and embedded videos are in development based on user feedback
- The goal is to save teachers time, energy, and give back precious weekends and holidays
In this episode, I chat with Dermott Morgan, an experienced PDHPE teacher and Instructional Coach Dermot shares how his school is embracing technology and AI to enhance teaching and learning, while also prioritising teacher wellbeing and work-life balance. We dive into specific tools like Brisk and ChatGPT, and discuss strategies for using AI ethically and effectively in the classroom. This episode is packed with practical ideas and insights that all teachers can apply to save time, boost engagement, and prevent burnout. Key Takeaways:
- Use tools like Brisk to quickly create quizzes, provide feedback, and differentiate learning
- Teach students about generative AI like ChatGPT - have a clear policy on ethical use, focus on powerful prompting
- Leverage AI to reduce teacher workload, not replace teaching - the goal is to have students do the heavy lifting
- Model vulnerability and a growth mindset with technology - get students involved in experimenting and learning together
- Prioritise teacher wellbeing by working smarter, not harder - shift the focus from teacher-centered to student-centered learning
- Collaborate with other schools and connect with online communities to stay up-to-date on the latest edtech innovations
Because your best life shouldn't wait until retirement. We want you to live the life of your ultimate dreams! Now as a busy teacher of PDHPE, CAFS & Health and Movement Science, it is easy to get caught up in making everyone else be happy and put yourself last. We're rewriting the rules of what it means to be a dedicated educator in 2025.
To access the FREE resource mentioned in this Podcast episode, head to thelearnnet.com/goals to download it.
✨ Are you ready to transform the way we think about teaching PDHPE in NSW?
Step into a fresh perspective on supporting our teaching community. In this episode, we're breaking down barriers and reimagining what's possible in PDHPE across NSW.
We explore how The Learning Network and pdhpe.net is reshaping the future of PDHPE support in NSW. Together, we're building a stronger, more connected teaching community that empowers every educator to succeed. ✨
This is a very special raw and vulnerable episode for you. Chris from Chris and Filly Functional Medicine coached me live for their Podcast the 'Ending Body Burnout Show'.
If you have been struggling with burn out, perfectionism and control you will want to have a listen to this very very raw episode with me.
I hope that this episode connects with you somehow and know that you are not alone in the thoughts and feelings you have about perfectionism, control and proving yourself. I never want you to feel alone and we will do all we can to support and protect your precious time, energy and wellbeing as a busy teacher.
A massive shout out to Chris and Filly for supporting me on my own personal health journey over the last 8 months. If you have been feeling anything like me or have any physical or emotional signs of burn out I encourage you to talk to somehow or seek professional help. Connect with Chris and Filly to start to get some answers.
Come and chat with me on Instagram or Facebook if this episode resonated with you in anyway.
In Part 2 of my conversation with Filipa Bellette, we dive deeper into the challenges teachers face and how to overcome burnout. We discuss the importance of listening to your body's signals, addressing root causes, and finding strategies to thrive in the classroom. If you're a teacher struggling with your wellbeing, this episode is full of practical wisdom and encouragement. Episode Highlights:
- Filipa's vulnerability in sharing her personal struggles as a teacher, even with her own husband, and how that led to positive changes
- The difference between "running away" from teaching versus making a conscious decision that it's no longer the right fit
- How Filipa's body was trying to tell her something was off, through symptoms like neck pain and constant crying, that she initially ignored
- The importance of not just addressing surface-level lifestyle factors, but going deeper to reprogram beliefs and heal emotional/physical imbalances
- Practical tips like using classroom routines to build in more water intake
- The interconnectedness of our physical, emotional, mental and spiritual wellbeing, and why it's crucial for teachers to listen to all the signs
Filipa Bellette is Co-Founder of multi award-winning health practice Chris & Filly Functional Medicine - and author of Ending Body Burnout. She is an accredited Clinical Nutritionist, Functional Medicine Practitioner, Coach & Trauma Therapist. She is also a PhD Scholar & regularly featured in the media, such as the Today Show, nine.com.au, Forbes and Body+Soul. Together with her husband Chris Bellette, Filipa has worked with over 2,500+ burned-out clients in the past combined 25+ years. Their practice is best known for ending body burnout (for good!) in “busy” people with energy, mood & gut issues, with their ROOT-root-cause approach. They were awarded as the Tasmanian State Winner & National Finalist for the Telstra Best of Business Awards 2022, as well as Winner for the Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards 2022. Filipa’s own passion for helping “busy” people have more energy, productivity and connection, came from her own personal experience of body burnout, after juggling the demands of business, family, and her failing health.
Website - www.chrisandfilly.fm
FaceBook - https://www.facebook.com/chrisandfilly
Instagram - @chrisandfilly_fm
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/filipa-bellette-73339019/
I'm so excited to bring you part 1 of my conversation with the incredible Filipa Bellette. As a functional medicine practitioner, clinical nutritionist, and transformational coach, Filipa has been a guiding light for me over the past year as I've navigated my own journey with body burnout. In this episode, Filipa and I dive deep into the critical issue of body burnout that is plaguing so many teachers across Australia. Filipa shares her expertise on the three key symptoms - energy issues, mood challenges, and gut problems - and how these manifest in the teaching profession. We unpack the powerful role that unconscious beliefs and past traumas play in driving teachers to push themselves to the brink. Filipa offers such valuable insights into the cultural and systemic factors within the education system that contribute to this epidemic, as well as the personal patterns and expectations that teachers often bring with them from their own schooling experiences. This conversation is vulnerable, honest, and so incredibly relatable for anyone working in the teaching field. Filipa and I set the stage for part 2, where we'll provide practical strategies and tools for teachers to break free from the cycle of body burnout and reclaim their health, energy and joy. Key Takeaways:
- Body burnout goes beyond traditional "burnout" and involves physiological symptoms like chronic fatigue, mood issues, and gut problems
- Unconscious beliefs and past traumas often drive teachers to overwork and neglect self-care
- The education system's culture and expectations can exacerbate body burnout, but teachers also play a role in their own patterns and high standards
- Separating identity from work and upgrading from "child" to "adult" mindsets are crucial for teachers to find balance and sustainability
I can't wait for you to hear the rest of this powerful conversation next week. Make sure to subscribe so you don't miss part 2!
In this episode, I sit down with CAFS teacher Emily Wuergatsch to discuss the joys and challenges of teaching CAFS. We chat about strategies for new CAFS teachers to build a strong foundation, as well as ways experienced teachers can reignite their passion and avoid burnout. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned CAFS veteran, you'll walk away with practical tips and insights to help you thrive in the classroom and better support your students. And don't forget - the doors to join The CAFS Collective, our vibrant community of CAFS teachers, are now open. Head to thelearnnet.com/collective to find out more. Episode Highlights:
- The power of collaboration and learning from experienced CAFS teachers
- Building a resource bank to save time and energy
- Strategies to support students with literacy and content comprehension
- Importance of self-care and protecting your wellbeing as a CAFS teacher
- Benefits of joining a community like The CAFS Collective
About Emily
I am a dedicated PDHPE teacher with six years of experience, including five years teaching Community and Family Studies (CAFS). I am driven by a deep passion for connecting with students, especially helping seniors achieve their full potential. I love tackling new challenges and roles around the school including being a Year Advisor and ARCO.
In 2023, I faced a tough period of burnout and adrenal fatigue, which I thought might end my career; however, my passion for teaching and the joy of impacting students' lives motivated me to continue. Outside of work, I love to recharge by playing netball, attending Pilates, and diving into my love for reading—my personal record being 20 books in a single month!
With 20 years of teaching CAFS under my belt, I’ve seen it all—the challenges, the wins and everything in between. I’m pulling back the curtain on what’s been working for teachers in our CAFS community. From creative strategies that boost student engagement to practical tips for managing assessments, I’ll share the real-life transformations that have taken place in classrooms just like yours. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your CAFS journey, this episode will give you insights, inspiration, and a glimpse into the power of collaboration within our teaching network. Tune in to learn what’s helping our members thrive and how you can apply these strategies to your own teaching practice. Join me to discover how teachers like you are levelling up their CAFS game—and get a sneak peek into the support and resources that are waiting for you in our community!
In this episode, I reflect on my own HSC experience 25 years ago and share 5 key things I would do differently if I were sitting the HSC exams again today. Drawing from my decades of experience as a PDHPE and CAFS teacher, I provide valuable insights and strategies to help current HSC students maximise their performance and prepare effectively for their upcoming exams.
Key Takeaways:
- I would study more effectively - reading notes is not enough, I would focus on practice questions and exam-style tasks
- I would develop essential skills, not just content knowledge - things like paragraph structure, data analysis, and understanding key glossary terms
- I would seek regular feedback from teachers and peers to identify areas for improvement
- I would break down exam questions before starting my response using the "Run FAR" strategy
- I would review and refine my answers, addressing common mistakes and misconceptions
This episode focuses on how you can enhance how you teach Community and Family Studies. You see there is so much I take for granted, after teaching Community and Family Studies for over 20 years. There were lots of mistakes I made in the early days and there were things that I didn't even know about. Fast track to now there are 4 things that I would really focus on more. Links to families, communities & case studies; Interrelationships between content; foster positive relationships and enhance assessment in Community and Family Studies.
Are you navigating the complexities of the HSC Community and Family Studies (CAFS) course? Don’t let common pitfalls trip you up! In this essential episode, "5 Common Mistakes in HSC CAFS," we shine a spotlight on the frequent errors that can hinder your success and offer practical advice to steer clear of them. From misinterpreting exam questions to neglecting key aspects of the syllabus, we cover the critical areas where students often go wrong in Community and Family Studies (and what you can do to rectify the common mistakes).
Overworking has become a norm for many PDHPE teachers, but what if the price is more than you realise? In this episode, we uncover the hidden costs—both financial and emotional—of overworking as a PDHPE and Health and Movement Science teacher. From sacrificing personal time to losing productivity due to burnout, we discuss why an upfront investment in the right resources and support can save you as a busy PDHPE and Health and Movement Science teacher from paying a much higher price down the line.
Why do some PDHPE teachers feel the need to constantly reinvent the wheel, especially as we embark on the changes in Health and Movement Science? This episode tackles that question head-on, debunking the myth that innovation always demands starting from scratch. Join us for a deep dive into the resources, strategies and proven practices that are already at your fingertips, ready to transform your Health and Movement Science teaching experience. We emphasise the power of connection, collaboration and community using existing resources to enhance learning outcomes without the extra stress. Discover how leveraging tried-and-tested methods can save you time, increase efficiency and still deliver cutting-edge education. Whether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned pro, this episode will reassure you that sometimes the best way forward is by building on the solid foundations that already exist. Tune in and find out how to innovate inHealth and Movement Science smartly and creatively without having to reinvent the wheel. It will be our pleasure to support you to protect your time in HMS. Renew or joins us: thelearnnet.com/hms
In this episode, I'm joined by the amazing Nat Littler to unpack the brand new PDHPE syllabus for K-6 and 7-10. As a former syllabus writer, Nat brings a wealth of insight and expertise to help us navigate these changes. We'll dive into what's new, what's out, and share our top tips to help you feel confident and excited about implementing the updated curriculum. Whether you teach primary, high school, or the full K-12 spectrum, this episode has you covered! Grab a cuppa and let's get into it. Download bonus resources at thelearnnet.com/newpdhpe Key Takeaways:
- The new syllabus is much more streamlined and user-friendly, with fewer outcomes and more flexibility
- The 5 propositions are now embedded throughout, rather than being a separate entity
- There's a stronger focus on mental health, consent, and respectful relationships
- Aquatics has been de-emphasised, giving you more freedom to tailor content to your school context
- The common grade scale now provides clearer descriptors for student achievement
- Don't throw everything out! Review your existing programs and see what can be adapted to the new syllabus
In this episode, I share a simple yet highly effective feedback strategy called WIN Feedback that I've been using in my PDHPE and CAFS classes for over a decade. I explain how this strategy evolved from my early experiences in parent-teacher conferences, where I found that directly engaging students in conversations about their performance was more impactful than just talking to parents. The WIN Feedback strategy involves three key components: What the student has done well, Improvements that need to be made, and Necessary actions the student can take to improve. I discuss how I developed this acronym and implemented the strategy in my own classroom, as well as the challenges I faced in getting my faculty to adopt it. Over time, the strategy has expanded to include the use of color-coding, feedback forms, and integrating it with the school's assessment systems. I share practical tips on how teachers can implement WIN Feedback in their own classrooms, whether it's using post-it notes, highlighters, or dedicated sections on assessment tasks.
Episode Highlights:
- The WIN Feedback strategy involves three key components: What the student has done well, Improvements to be made, and Necessary actions to improve.
- The strategy evolved from my early experiences in parent-teacher conferences, where I found that directly engaging students in conversations about their performance was more impactful.
- Implementing the strategy in my faculty initially faced some resistance, but it was eventually adopted and integrated into the assessment process.
- The strategy has expanded over time to include the use of color-coding, feedback forms, and integration with the school's assessment systems.
- I provide practical tips on how teachers can implement WIN Feedback in their classrooms, such as using post-it notes, highlighters, or dedicated sections on assessment tasks.
- The strategy is designed to be simple, effective, and student-centered, empowering learners to take ownership of their own improvement.
- I have shared the WIN Feedback strategy with thousands of teachers across New South Wales and it has become a common language in the CAFS and HMS teaching communities.
In this episode of the PDHPE and CAFS Podcast, I share five simple and practical strategies to help streamline your marking as a busy high school teacher. Whether you're marking junior assessments, PDHPE, CAFS, or the upcoming Health and Movement Science exams, these tips will save you time, energy, and sanity. I draw on my 20+ years of experience as a PDHPE and CAFS educator, as well as my time as a senior HSC marker, to provide you with proven methods for making your marking more efficient and effective. From printing guidelines in color to using a "pink for positive, green for growth" feedback system, you'll walk away with actionable steps to transform your marking process. Tune in to learn how to streamline your marking, maintain your well-being, and ensure your students receive the valuable feedback they deserve. Let's work together to make your afternoons, weekends, and holidays a little bit easier.
Key Takeaways:
- Print marking guidelines in colored paper (A5 size) to help students visually engage with the criteria
- Separate student responses into sections (e.g. multiple choice, short answer, extended response) to divide the marking workload
- Conduct "wide reading" to establish benchmarks and adjust marking guidelines as needed
- Focus on marking one or two questions at a time to maintain consistency and clarity
- Use a "pink for positive, green for growth" system to provide constructive feedback
In this episode of the PDHPE and CAFS Podcast, I share four essential tips and strategies to help students maximise their exam performance. I provide practical advice on tackling multiple-choice questions, using the "RUN FAR" planning method, mastering glossary keywords, and crafting effective examples.
Episode Highlights Include:
- Strategies for approaching multiple-choice questions, including using past HSC papers and the "THINK" acronym
- The "RUN FAR" method for planning exam responses, including reading the question, underlining key terms, and formulating a plan
- The importance of understanding and applying glossary keywords to demonstrate depth of knowledge
- Tips for creating "SUAVE" examples that are specific, unique, applied, varied, and explicit
- Encouragement for teachers to share resources and strategies to help students succeed in their exams
In this episode, I share 8 effective study techniques that high school students can use to improve their performance in PDHPE, CAFS, and Health and Movement Science subjects. As a teacher for 16 years, I've seen what works best for students, and I'm excited to pass these strategies on to you. To get a copy of my free worksheet "8 PDHPE & CAFS Revision Strategies That Actually Work!", visit thelearnnet.com/revision
In this episode, I’m diving into teacher burnout using the analogy of cultural burning practices in Aboriginal communities. I’m sharing my personal experiences with burnout, comparing it to how prescribed burns are used to regenerate land and prevent wildfires. I also chat about the importance of protecting your well-being as a teacher, and advocating for change to support your flourishing. Episode highlights include: ✨ The connection between cultural burning practices and preventing teacher burnout
✨ My three personal experiences with burnout and how it impacted my health and home life
✨ Insights from indigenous fire practitioners on land management and preventing destruction
✨ Systemic issues in schools that can "choke" teachers and impact their identity
✨ The collective responsibility of teachers to work together, heal, and thrive in their careers
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⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672
⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - https://www.thelearnnet.com/resources
⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
I’m sharing 4 practical steps teachers can take to flourish even when feeling busy and overwhelmed: Connecting with colleagues, Collaborating on projects, Building a supportive Community, and Cultivating a positive school Culture. Get ready to learn strategies for collaboration, leadership, well-being and creating thriving learning environments for both students and teachers. Episode Highlights:
👉 The importance of connecting with other teachers for support and shared responsibility
👉 Ways to collaborate more effectively on curriculum, projects and day-to-day tasks
👉 Developing a shared vision and goals to ensure the whole school is working together
👉 Fostering well-being and a culture where teachers feel empowered to try new ideas
👉 Cultivating rich communities where teachers and students can both grow and learn
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⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672
⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - https://www.thelearnnet.com/resources
⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
As a busy teacher, I know how easy it is to get caught up in all the tasks and commitments of the term and forget to take care of yourself. On this episode of Teach and Flourish, I share three simple strategies for prioritising your wellbeing as a teacher. I discuss using time as a finite resource, evaluating what drains your energy versus fuels your day, and the importance of self-care. Episode Highlights: 👉 Manage your time like a reservoir - fill it up and avoid letting it drain completely 👉 Reassess your commitments and say no if additional tasks won't be a good use of your time and energy 👉 Evaluate projects and people to determine what energises you versus what depletes your energy 👉 Prioritise self-care through adequate sleep, nutrition, exercise and mindfulness to avoid burnout —- ⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to! ⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672 ⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - https://www.thelearnnet.com/resources ⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
To launch our new-look and new-name podcast, I’m sharing my personal story of burnout as a teacher and my journey to find strategies to protect my wellbeing. I open up about the systemic failures impacting teachers and share practical solutions you can implement in your own classroom.
Episode Highlights:
👉 My experience of burnout and leaving the teaching profession to develop strategies to support teacher wellbeing
👉 Why teachers are leaving the profession in large numbers due to lack of support and burnout from the system
👉 Practical classroom strategies to help reignite passion and protect time/energy
—- ⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672
⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - https://www.thelearnnet.com/resources
⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
I'm excited to share 100 strategies, resources and tools that you can implement in your CAFS classroom right away. From formative assessment techniques to cooperative learning strategies, this episode is packed full of practical ideas that I've gathered from my 20 years of teaching experience. I'll also discuss some common misconceptions students have and provide clarity on key terms. Additionally, I'll share how you can join The CAFS Collective teacher community and access even more exclusive resources. Episode Highlights:
- 10 formative assessment strategies you can use tomorrow
- 5 cooperative learning structures that boost student engagement
- 3 ways to help students understand the difference between policies and legislation
- How the gratitude jar builds positive relationships in the classroom
- How to join the Cavs Collective Facebook group for ongoing teacher support
Click here to access my top 100 tools!
🔗 Join The CAFS Collective https://www.thelearnnet.com/collective ⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to! ⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672 ⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - https://www.thelearnnet.com/resources ⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
This week I’m sharing strategies for busy Community and Family Studies (CAFS) teachers to protect your time and wellbeing during challenging times in the NSW education system. I’m opening up about my own experiences as a former relieving head teacher and encourage you to advocate for yours and your students' needs. Listen in to learn action steps to communicate effectively with school leaders and orchestrate a plan to manage your workload. Episode HIghlights: ✨ The importance of advocating for your faculty's needs and justifying budget requests to school executives. ✨ The value of initiating open conversations with colleagues to set priorities and boundaries around your workload. ✨ Learn how to translate complex workload requests into realistic time commitments to get approval from principals. ✨ Gain strategies for orchestrating a self-care plan and negotiating professional learning opportunities. 🔗 Find out more about our free CAFS Camp (May 13-15, 2024): https://www.thelearnnet.com/cafscamp 🔗 Join The CAFS Collective https://www.thelearnnet.com/collective ⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to! ⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672 ⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - https://www.thelearnnet.com/resources ⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
In this episode, I share what I would do differently if teaching Community and Family Studies based on my 20+ years of experience. I discuss explicit knowledge of the syllabus, teaching the glossary of keywords, paragraph structure, developing options structure from day one, embedding wellbeing, using specific and varied examples, and planning answers using the RUNFAR method. Episode Highlights:
- Explicitly teach syllabus understanding over just knowledge
- Teach application of glossary words from the start
- Develop paragraph structure skills from Year 7
- Start options structure practice in Year 11
- Embed wellbeing for part C of the options
- Use unique, specific examples from your local context
- Plan answers using the RUNFAR method of reading, underlining, naming, formulating a plan, answering, and reviewing
🔗 Find out more about our free CAFS Camp (May 13-15, 2024): https://www.thelearnnet.com/cafscamp
⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672
⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - https://www.thelearnnet.com/resources
⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
In this episode, I chat with occupational therapist Angela Lockwood about practical strategies teachers can implement to maintain focus and prevent burnout in their high-pressure jobs. Angie draws from her 20 years of experience in education and shares insights on morning routines, setting boundaries, and using self-awareness to design systems that allow teachers to stay in control of their energy and time.
Episode Highlights:
- Implement a morning routine including deep breathing, visualization and journaling to set positive intentions for the day
- Carve out quiet preparation time each day such as arriving early to focus on deep work like lesson planning
- Set boundaries to protect classroom time and request alternative collaboration spaces if needed
- Seek support from a trusted listener if feeling overly reactive, stressed or burned out
💫 About Angela Lockwood
As a qualified occupational therapist, Angela has helped thousands of people live their potential despite the challenges and difficulties they faced. Since founding Educate Therapy Pty Ltd, a consulting practice working with across all sectors and industries sharing her tools and strategies on finding calm and managing distraction, Angela turned her hand to her love of writing and authored books on finding calm: 'The Power of Conscious Choice' and 'Switch Off' and the newly revised version, 'Switch Off and Find Calm'.
🔗 Find out more about Angela Lockwood at https://www.angelalockwood.com.au/
⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672
⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - https://www.thelearnnet.com/resources
⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
On this week's episode I wanted to chat about the importance of finding your tribe - your community of fellow teachers who truly get you. As educators, it's so easy to feel isolated, but being part of a supportive community can make all the difference. I'll share about my own experiences feeling alone and how connecting with others has helped me so much. Episode Highlights:
- Feeling like you belong to a group of people who understand your challenges is so important for wellbeing
- Connecting with other teachers facing similar situations can help you feel less alone
- Bouncing ideas off others and sharing resources lightens the load and inspires new thinking
- My community has helped me stay energised and avoid burnout through difficult times
⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672
⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - thelearnnet.com/resources
⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
Are you facing a classroom of reluctant learners in your Community and Family Studies (CAFS) course? Discover six compelling teaching approaches designed to captivate and motivate even the most hesitant learners. We dissect the Community and Family Studies curriculum, revealing key themes and activities that resonate with students who are disengaged or apprehensive about Community and Family Studies. From integrating real-life scenarios that pique curiosity to leveraging technology for interactive lessons, get ready to shake up your instructional methods. ⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to! ⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672 ⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - thelearnnet.com/resources ⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
Join us for an inspiring guest session with Angela Nicole, founder of Bloom Within, as she shares her journey and practical strategies for boosting self-esteem in young people.
Episode Highlights:
- Discover Angela's personal journey from self-doubt to empowerment, and how it led her to create Bloom Within.
- Learn simple yet impactful activities and techniques to help students build resilience, confidence, and self-love.
- Gain access to valuable resources and actionable tips to implement in your classroom immediately.
⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672
⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - thelearnnet.com/resources
⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
Join us in this episode as we tackle the challenge of "How to Teach Groups in Context in Community and Family Studies More Effectively." This episode is a deep dive into strategies and techniques that help educators bring the study of diverse groups within Community and Family Studies to life. Learn how to use case studies, role-playing and multimedia resources to make complex concepts about societal groups relatable and relevant to your students.
⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672
⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - thelearnnet.com/resources
⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
In this episode, Kelly Bell shares six ideas for incursions and excursions that can help bring the Community and Family Studies (CAFS) course alive for students. From research days with university guests to customised theme days, these experiential learning opportunities connect classroom concepts to real world examples and services. Episode Highlights:
- Ideas for a dedicated research day or groups in context day using local community organisations
- Whether travelling to Sydney for excursions is worthwhile or using local services is better
- Resources available from organisations like Barnardos and The Big Issue Classroom
- Creative options like a choose your own adventure day or customised theme days
- Ways to motivate uninterested students by bringing the course content to life
⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
⭐ Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265291644779672
⭐ Looking for Revision Resources?! Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - thelearnnet.com/resources
⭐ Find out more about our courses and memberships for PDHPE & CAFS Teachers: https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
Stef Love shares her experience as the head PDHPE teacher at a small school. She discusses the challenges of being the most experienced teacher and balancing her many roles. Stef shares how joining the Health & Movement Science membership has provided invaluable resources, collaboration and community support. Episode Highlights:
- Benefits of collaborating with other PE teachers facing similar challenges
- How the HMS membership has saved hundreds of hours in planning and preparation
- Advice to trust the community and not feel alone in your role
💪 Join the Health & Movement Science Membership today at https://www.thelearnnet.com/hms
In this bonus episode, I'm sharing insights from my 20 years of teaching experience to support educators in the new Health and Movement Science syllabus. Learn how to use data to inform your planning and assessment, gain flexibility in your scope and sequence, and empower students through collaborative investigations. Episode Highlights:
- Use student strengths and interests to guide your HMS curriculum
- Access ongoing support through the HMS Membership community
- Employ backward design and data to create effective assessments
- Embrace flexibility in the new syllabus for student-centered learning
- Develop research skills through collaborative investigations
💪 Join the HMS Membership at thelearnnet.com/hms for templates, resources and masterclasses to simplify your HMS journey.
Dive into the challenges faced by educators juggling packed schedules who haven't had time to look at the Health and Movement Science Syllabus. Explore practical strategies and innovative approaches to dust off the brand new Health and Movement Science Syllabus, infusing it with vitality and relevance in the classroom. This episode serves as a beacon for busy Health and Movement Science teachers, offering insights and actionable steps to breathe life into the unexplored syllabus. Join us as we uncover the hidden potential of the untouched Health and Movement Science Syllabus and empower you to embrace change, adapt and deliver impactful lessons that resonate with your Health and Movement Science students.
In this episode, I'm breaking down the new Health and Movement Science (HMS) syllabus and providing strategies for teachers to successfully implement it in their classrooms. I'll discuss the reorganisation of content areas and highlight key changes and additions, such as epidemiology, social justice principles, and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Episode Highlights
- The new HMS syllabus content areas are organised around "content points" instead of "critical questions"
- Young people's meanings of health and issues affecting them are important focus areas
- Determinants of health, advocacy, and health promotion are emphasised
- Global policies like the SDGs and Ottawa Charter are now included
- Existing PDHPE content can be repurposed to streamline teaching
Download my free mapping document at https://www.thelearnnet.com/11hmsone Join my Health & Movement Science membership at https://www.thelearnnet.com/hms
Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group
Looking for Revision Resources?!
Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - thelearnnet.com/resources
In this episode, I'm sharing practical tips and strategies for PDHPE teachers to feel confident navigating the new Health and Movement Science (HMS) syllabus in NSW. Drawing on my 20 years of experience, I'll be unpacking syllabuses to break down the key changes and provide a clear plan of attack. You'll learn how to prepare yourself for success by downloading and annotating existing resources, repurpose existing content, implement collaborative investigations and more.
Episode Highlights:
- 4 simple steps to navigate the Health and Movement Science syllabus effectively
- Understanding the core components and propositions that remain the same
- The importance of collaboration and connecting with other teachers
- How to implement changes like depth studies and collaborative investigations
- Resources and ongoing support available through The Health and Movement Science Membership
Special guest, Graham Wright joins me to discuss how HSC scores are assessed and scaled in NSW. He explains how scores are not comparable across subjects and can vary greatly in their contribution to an ATAR below Band 6. Graham provides insights into exam marking processes and emphasises supporting student success through teamwork and understanding the HSC system. Episode Highlights:
- HSC scores indicate band achievement levels, not raw exam scores
- Subject contribution to ATAR can vary significantly below Band 5
- Highest achievers set standards for whole cohort
- Friendly competition benefits students more than cutthroat approaches
- Understanding how a subject scales can help with goal setting
- 2022 was an anomalous year for harsher PDHPE exam marking
- CAFS often contributes most to student ATARs of any 2-unit subject
Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group
Looking for Revision Resources?!
Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - thelearnnet.com/resources
In this episode, I'm sharing tips and strategies for PDHPE and CAFS teachers to start the new school year strong. I discuss advocating for yourself, communicating what's going on at home and work, translating new syllabus changes and policies, initiating action on your goals, orchestrating support needs, and negotiating expectations with your school leadership.
Episode Highlights
- Advocate for yourself by saying no to non-essential tasks outside your job description
- Communicate personal and professional challenges happening at home or work
- Translate new syllabus, policy and budget changes to understand requirements
- Initiate conversations and action on your professional goals and needs
- Orchestrate the support you need such as colleague observations, feedback and co-planning
- Negotiate clear expectations with school leadership for your role and professional growth
Use movement like yoga stretches or GoNoodle dances to start the day and energise learners
- Incorporate student expertise by having them teach peers skills in sports they play
- Resources
- Follow Rainbow Sky Creations on Insta at https://www.instagram.com/rainbowskycreations/
- Grab our done-for-you PDHPE & CAFS Teaching Packages at https://www.thelearnnet.com/courses
- Join The CAFS Collective at https://www.thelearnnet.com/collective
- Join the PDHPE Membership for K-6 at https://www.thelearnnet.com/primary
- Follow Kell on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kellybell.coach
I'm sharing 5 tips for building strong relationships with students in the classroom. We'll discuss the importance of learning names quickly, finding out student interests, learning about their families and goals, and creating an inviting classroom environment.
Episode Highlights:
- Learn student names as quickly as possible through name labels, seating charts, and calling on students by name
- Discover student interests through icebreakers and sharing what they enjoy doing
- Get to know about student families and backgrounds through sharing photos or symbols
- Discuss personal and learning goals with students to support their growth
- Design an inviting classroom space with flexible seating, well-being areas, and gratitude activities
RESOURCES:
Connect with me on Instagram @kellybell.coach Access our done-for-you PDHPE & CAFS Packages at thelearnnet.com/courses Subscribe to our email list for early access to upcoming events from The Learning Network in 2024 at thelearnnet.com/subscribe Check out our constantly updated resources across subject areas for teachers to implement immediately at thelearnnet.com/resources
In this episode, I'm sharing 20 teaching tips from my 20 years of experience as a PDHPE & CAFS teacher. I'm also opening up about the importance of building relationships with students, establishing consistency, focusing on skills over content, collaborating with colleagues, and prioritsing self-care.
Bulleted Takeaways:
- Build relationships with students from day one to increase engagement and motivation - Establish consistent routines, structures and expectations in your classroom
- Focus lessons on developing skills like writing, collaboration and critical thinking over content delivery
- Collaborate and share resources with other teachers instead of working in isolation
- Advocate for yourself and don't be afraid to say no to additional responsibilities
- Make time for self-care activities like exercise, sleep and switching off from work
Enjoying the Podcast? Tag me @kellybell.coach on Instagram and let me know what you're listening to!
Join the Community! The PDHPE & CAFS Community Facebook Group
Looking for Revision Resources?!
Check out my full collection of resources & masterclasses to ensure your students are spending their valuable revision time on meaningful & strategic activities - thelearnnet.com/resources
In this episode, I'm sharing my vision for The Learning Network in 2024. I'm discussing strengthening existing memberships and launching new ones to support teachers across all PDHPE courses. I'm also giving you a sneak-peek into upcoming events, resources and reveal my commitment to consistency and community building.
Episode Highlights
- Existing memberships like HMS and The CAFS Collective will be strengthened with more resources and support
- New memberships will launch to support K-6 and 7-10 PDHPE teachers
- A Health Movement Science summit and The CAFS Conference will provide face-to-face learning in 2024
- Resources will be developed for all PDHPE courses to support teachers
- Consistency, connection and collaboration will remain our core priorities
I'm sharing four effective strategies for analyzing your HSC results after they are released. I discuss breaking down results by band ranges, comparing to state averages, analyzing school vs HSC assessments, and using the WIN feedback model.
Episode Highlights
- Break down your HSC results by the number of students in each band range to identify trends
- Compare your results to state averages to see how you performed relative to other schools
- Analyse differences between school-based assessments and HSC exam results
- Use the WIN feedback model (What went well, Improvements needed, Necessary actions) to plan for next year
- Access a free HSC results analysis spreadsheet template at learnnet.com/HSCresults
In this episode, I'm sharing the SOAR analysis model as a tool for reflection at the end of the school year. I'm giving you questions to consider in each area of SOAR - Strengths, Opportunities, Aspirations and Results - to evaluate what's working well and where there is room for growth. Episode Highlights
- The SOAR analysis model provides an opportunity to reflect on strengths to build on, opportunities for the future, deeply held values and aspirations, and meaningful ways to measure results
- Consider what you and your faculty do well and are most proud of to identify strengths - Think about how to best meet student needs, differentiate your approach, and develop skills to capitalise on opportunities
- Explore your passions and most compelling aspirations, and how to implement strategic initiatives to support them
- Identify resources needed and ways to celebrate achieving goals to evaluate results
In this podcast, I'm sharing 5 strategies teachers can implement to have a better school year in 2024. I'll discuss the importance of having a mentor, being part of a collaborative community, attending professional development events, using pre-made resources and packages, and accessing a variety of teaching resources.
Episode Highlights:
- Surround yourself with a mentor or coach who can support you
- Join a community of like-minded teachers for collaboration and connection
- Attend conferences and networking events to learn from others
- Use pre-made teaching packages and resources to save time
- Access a variety of teaching resources to keep lessons fresh
I'm delighted to be joined by Natalie Stokell, who is sharing practical activities teachers can use to bring consent and sex ed topics to life for students. Natalie shares 5 hands-on activities that get students discussing communication, boundaries, and negotiation.
Episode Highlights:
- Consent education should go beyond a "yes/no" model and explore nuances of the topic
- Hands-on activities like massages or personal space exercises help students feel consent concepts in their bodies
- Involving peers in discussions provides different perspectives than single-gender conversations
- Role playing scenarios gives students practice implementing consent tools and language
- Bringing topics to life with activities better engages students than just lectures or notes
Resources
- Natalie's website - www.tellyourdaughters.com.au
- Natalie's Instagram - www.instagram.com/tellyourdaughters
- Natalie's Facebook - www.facebook.com/tellyourdaughters
- The Haven Centre YouTube video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3TT0TfQHKM "Where is your line" from the last activity mentioned.
- Some great consent/sex books for educators: The Art of Receiving and Giving by Betty Martin https://amzn.to/40BwXHb
- Legitimate Sexpectations: The power of sex-ed by Katrina Marson (this is a recent Australian publication) https://amzn.to/3QoZc7a
- Blog post of Natalie's recommended sex ed books for all ages https://www.tellyourdaughters.com.au/blog/my-book-recommendations-across-all-ages
- Download Natalie's Parent/Carer Resource List here - a 25 page guide with all of her book recommendations and also glossary for parents (Including acronyms like 'GNOC' = get naked on camera and 'POS' = parent over shoulder) https://mailchi.mp/fa70b862ee5e/2yzkbr4rbx
- Fill in Natalie's anonymous Parent Survey here, and receive $20 credit to use towards an in-person workshop, or online talk. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScFfCBAZdRgrmVM1MSsDBk5pQ4hoJNO4WTQDuYlHZIytF5LxQ/viewform
In this episode, I'm joined by Jess who shares her experience introducing CAFS to an all-boys school for the first time. She discusses the changes she made to her teaching approach and curriculum to engage male students. Jess also provides advice for other teachers looking to offer CAFS in schools that have not done so previously. Episode Highlights- Visuals, hands-on activities and relatable examples are important for engaging male students in CAFS. - Literacy strategies like annotating, key terms and example responses help improve boys' writing skills. - Getting support from other teachers, the principal and promoting career links can help "sell" CAFS to students and parents. - Differentiating instruction and checking for understanding regularly ensures all learners are supported.
This week I'm discussing recent research showing that Australian teachers are working over 5 hours more per week than teachers internationally, and nearly half are considering leaving the profession due to unmanageable workloads. I've been haring SO much personal feedback about a lack of time and support taking its toll, which is why my PDHPE and CAFS Learning Packages are designed to save teachers hundreds of hours of prep time.
Episode Highlights:
- Australian teachers are working over 5 hours more per week than international peers
- Nearly half of Australian teachers are considering leaving within 12 months due to workload
- Teachers report a lack of time and support is burning them out
- The Learning Network's Packages have saved teachers 150+ hours of prep per course
- Attend the PDHPE & CAFS Showcase on November 9th to see the packages in action - register at thelearnnet.com/showcase
In this episode, I'm sharing five practical strategies PDHPE teachers can use to familiarise themselves with the new Health and Movement Science syllabus.
Key Takeaways:
- Download and analyse the new syllabus to understand the changes and requirements
- Complete a SWOT analysis to understand your typical students' strengths, opportunities, aspirations and goals
- Review key components like depth studies, collaborative investigations and assessment tasks
- Plan your scope and sequence to map out where units and assessments will sit
- Access a free webinar recording for more visual explanations of the changes at thelearnnet.com/newhms
In this episode from our recent HIIT CAFS Training, I share my top strategies for teaching the Individual Research Project (IRP) and helping students achieve success. Tune in to learn how to break down the marking criteria, structure responses using the RUN FAR method, and provide scaffolds to take students' skills to the next level.
Episode Highlights: - Discover how to explicitly teach each component of the marking criteria - Get the RUN FAR method to structure research reports for top marks - Learn where you can access templates and scaffolds to help students analyse, evaluate and discuss for HSC success ⭐️ Join The CAFS Collective at thelearnnet.com/collective
In this episode, I'm talking about the importance of having a community of teachers who support you and understand what you're going through. I'm opening up about my own experience of feeling burnt out without support and how the CAFS Collective membership provides a supportive community.
Episode Takeaways:
- Surrounding yourself with like-minded teachers who want to support you is important for avoiding burnout
- The CAFS Collective membership provides resources, templates, activities and a community of CAFS teachers at all stages of their careers from across NSW
- Members benefit from regular masterclasses on topics they want to learn more about led by experts in the field
- The membership allows flexibility to learn at your own pace through recordings or joining live sessions
Join The CAFS Collective today at thelearnnet.com/collective
In this episode, I'm sharing some of the most common mistakes and misconceptions she I see students making in Community and Family Studies. From distinguishing needs from wants to understanding the difference between formal and informal support, let's break down the tricky concepts that trip students up year after year.
Episode Takeaways: - The difference between needs and wants and how to help students understand - Distinguishing needs from resources and human vs non-human resources - Understanding formal vs informal support and government agencies vs community organizations - Qualitative vs quantitative data and how to remember which is which - Reliability vs validity in research and common mistakes made - Primary vs secondary research methods and giving good examples - Legislation vs policy and how they differ - Roles in parenting, caring and fostering vs adoption - Rights, responsibilities and duty of care in families
As we dive into Term 4, I'm here to share four essential strategies for PDHPE teachers to not only survive but thrive in this busy term. Whether you're a seasoned educator or a newbie, these tips will help you navigate the challenges that come with the territory. Join me as we explore prioritising, planning, protecting, and partnering to set yourself up for success.
Takeaways:
- Prioritise: Focus on the present week and avoid getting too far ahead. Don't stress about next year; it will come in due time. Embrace imperfection and take it one week at a time.
- Plan: Develop a daily plan and maintain tunnel vision at school. Use your planning periods wisely and consider arriving early or staying a bit later to avoid taking work home. Protect your work time by setting boundaries.
- Protect: Advocate for yourself and learn to say no to additional roles or tasks that go beyond your teaching responsibilities. You don't have to reinvent the wheel; use existing resources and seek help when needed.
- Partner: Collaborate with colleagues within and outside your school, leveraging technology and networks to work smarter, not harder. Don't hesitate to tap into available resources and support from the PDHPE community.
Term 4 can be demanding, but with these strategies, you'll find yourself better equipped to handle the challenges while maintaining a healthier work-life balance. Tune in for more valuable insights and resources to support your journey in PDHPE teaching.
Welcome back to "The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast"! Join me as I share strategies to protect your time, energy, and wellbeing as you enter a new term. Discover the values that drive The Learning Network and learn about our upcoming CAFS Boot Camps and membership opening. Don't miss out on this insightful episode filled with inspiration and support for PDHPE & CAFS educators!
Bulleted Takeaways:
- Reflect on the transition to a new term with positivity and energy.
- Discover how The Learning Network's resources and courses aim to save teachers' valuable time.
- Learn about the vision and values of The Learning Network, including connection, collaboration, community, and consistency.
- Stay updated on upcoming events, including Boot Camps and membership openings.
Register for our FREE 3-Day CAFS Boot Camp at thelearnnet.com/bootcamp
In this episode, I'll share with you the invaluable insights I've gained from over a decade of collaborating with Community and Family Studies (CAFS) teachers. Join me as I break down the six key lessons encapsulated in the acronym "Inspire." You'll discover how innovation, networking, strategic planning, passion, immersion, and achieving results have shaped my journey in education and transformed the way I support teachers like you. Tune in to gain powerful strategies and inspiration to elevate your teaching game.
Episode Takeaways:
- The acronym "Inspire" encapsulates six vital lessons from my 12 years of working closely with CAFS teachers.
- Innovate: Embrace innovation and creativity in your teaching methods to engage students effectively.
- Network: Collaborate, connect, and share ideas with fellow educators to foster a supportive community.
- Strategy: Develop strategic approaches to improve your students' performance and adapt to changing needs.
- Passion: Harness your passion for teaching and maintain enthusiasm for your subject to inspire students.
- Immerse: Dive into immersive experiences and engage students in meaningful activities beyond the curriculum.
- Results: Focus on achieving positive results for both yourself and your students through effective teaching practices.
- Empower: My mission is to empower you to be the best CAFS teacher you can be, with resources, coaching, and support available through my memberships and courses.
Join me on this journey as I empower CAFS teachers to connect, learn, and grow together, making a lasting impact on their students' lives.
In this episode of The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast, I'm taking you on a journey to break free from the isolation of Community and Family Studies (CAFS) education and explore new horizons. Discover the "messy middle", the power of professional learning, and exciting opportunities in the world of CAFS education. Plus, learn about our upcoming CAFS Conference that promises to be a career highlight! Join us as we navigate the seas of CAFS together and unlock the potential for more efficient and supportive teaching.
Episode Takeaways:
- A check-in on staying afloat in the world of PDHPE and CAFS education.
- The importance of getting off your "Community Family Studies Island" and seeking more efficient ways to support your CAFS journey.
- Reflecting on where you are in your CAFS teaching journey and understanding the concept of the "messy middle."
- My personal journey of strategic career planning, starting in the mid-2000s.
- The significance of professional learning in CAFS and the value of connecting with other CAFS teachers.
- Information on how you can be a part of The CAFS Conference on the beautiful Central Coast of New South Wales.
Join me as I guide you towards a more connected and impactful CAFS teaching experience. Don't miss this opportunity to enrich your journey in Community and Family Studies!
Today, we're diving deep into the exciting world of collaborative investigation within our new health and Movement Science syllabus. I know there might be some nervousness around this, but I'm genuinely excited because this approach fosters teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and prepares students for the future workforce where collaboration is key.
Join me as I walk you through the ins and outs of collaborative investigation, sharing insights from NESA's guidelines, and discussing my own perspectives on implementing this in the classroom.
Episode Takeaways:
- Collaborative investigation is a crucial aspect of the new health and Movement Science syllabus, promoting essential skills like communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.
- The majority of workforce settings involve collaboration, making this an excellent opportunity for students to learn valuable skills.
- The collaborative investigation is embedded within the syllabus, taking up around 20 hours of course time, which aligns well with the curriculum.
- The investigation is assessed and can contribute between 20% to 40% of internal school-based assessment.
- Flexibility is key: Collaborative investigation can focus on healthy individuals and communities or the body in mind in motion, or a blend of both.
- Students select a focus question related to the content, delve into the process, and present their findings through various mediums.
- Presentation formats vary, allowing students to choose written, oral, or multimodal modes to effectively communicate their ideas.
- Qualitative and quantitative data collection methods are both important, fostering a holistic understanding of the subject matter.
- Ethical considerations must be maintained, especially regarding informed consent, privacy, integrity, and respect in research.
- The collaborative investigation follows distinct phases, and NASA provides guidance and sample documents to aid teachers.
- Teachers can facilitate the collaborative investigation, guiding research teams and fostering student engagement.
- Various sample focus questions and investigation ideas are shared, offering inspiration for different angles of exploration.
- The new syllabus presents opportunities for teachers to adapt, collaborate, and navigate this innovative approach together.
In today's episode, I'm sitting down with a fantastic educator, Ann Belcher, to dive into the ins and outs of teaching the Independent Research Project (IRP) with a strategic edge. Ann's a seasoned CAFS teacher, and together, we'll chat about her teaching journey, how the IRP has evolved over time, and practical strategies for setting our students up for success.
Discover my top 4 ways to improve research methodology in CAFS (it's easier than you think!)
⭐️ Don't miss my FREE upcoming webinar: How to successfully facilitate the IRP without sacrificing your time or wellbeing. Register at thelearnnet.com/irpwebinar
In this episode of The PDHPE and CAFS Podcast, join me as I dive into the exciting changes in the Health and Movement Science syllabus. Get ready to explore what's in and what's out, as I break down the key updates and implications for teachers and students. Whether you're a seasoned educator or new to the field, these insights will help you navigate the shifts and make the most of the fresh opportunities the new syllabus presents.
Episode Takeaways:
- The Health and Movement Science syllabus has undergone significant changes, both in content and structure, offering new opportunities for educators and students.
- Research skills and investigations are key components of the new syllabus, empowering students for future success.
- Many options have been removed from the syllabus, but existing connections and alternate approaches can still enhance student learning.
- Exciting inclusions like collaborative investigations provide fresh avenues for exploration and engagement.
- Sleep is now recognized as a significant factor in performance, offering educators an opportunity to delve into this vital aspect of health.
- Teachers can find support, guidance, and a sense of community through my upcoming free webinar at thelearnnet.com/webinar
My goal is to help you navigate the changes in the Health and Movement Science syllabus, equipping you to provide exceptional education and support to your students!
In this episode of The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast, I'm taking a deep dive into the new Health and Movement Science syllabus. As an experienced teacher and coach, I'm genuinely excited about for the new syllabus! From sleep psychology to a focus on the health of young people, I'll be sharing what makes this syllabus a valuable addition to Stage Six PDHPE.
Whether you're new to teaching or a seasoned educator, this episode provides valuable insights into maximising student engagement and achievement with the new syllabus.
Episode Takeaways:
- The new Health and Movement Science syllabus combines current areas of interest in PDHPE with exciting new inclusions like sleep psychology and a focus on the health of young people.
- The inclusion of a deep dive into the health of young people has become a mandatory part of the course, allowing students to gain a real-life perspective on health issues and behaviors in Australia.
- The syllabus includes essential concepts such as biomechanics, which are highly applicable to human movement, balance, stability, fluid mechanics, and force.
- The significance of psychology and the Mind and Movement is highlighted, with resources like Ben Crowe's work offering valuable insights into this area.
- The new syllabus creates connections between PDHPE and CAFS, making it easier for teachers to integrate their expertise and provide a holistic learning experience for students.
Today, we're diving deep into how you, as a PDHPE teacher, can take action and advocate for yourself and your students. With a brand new syllabus on the horizon, I know some of you are feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. But fear not! I've got your back. In this episode, I'll share six practical steps to empower yourself and create positive change in your teaching journey. From advocating to initiating open conversations, and even negotiating resources, we'll cover it all. So let's get ready to make the most of this new phase in our teaching careers!
Episode Takeaways
* New syllabus, new opportunities! Embrace the changes and get excited about the possibilities ahead.
- Six empowering steps to take action: Advocate, Communicate, Translate time commitments, Initiate open conversations, Orchestrate your plan, and Negotiate resources.
- Advocate for your needs and wants with your leadership team, especially when introducing new courses like Child Studies or Health Movement Science.
- Effective communication is key; prepare your points clearly before discussing with your superiors.
- Translate curriculum changes into manageable time commitments to stay on top of your plans.
- Initiate open and honest conversations with your leaders to address concerns and work towards positive outcomes.
- Orchestrate a solid plan of attack by mapping out your resources, budgets, and timelines for smooth implementation.
- Negotiate with your school to ensure adequate support for curriculum changes, professional learning, and resources.
- Join our community of like-minded teachers to receive support and share ideas during this exciting time of growth.
Today, I have some incredible news to share that will shape the future of our learning community. As you know, my business, the Learning Network, has been supporting CAFS teachers like you across New South Wales. But now, I'm taking a giant leap to expand our support to all PDHPE courses as well. Come along with me as I share my journey, my motivation, and what's in store for you in this new phase of growth. Get ready for a community-based approach, amazing guest experts, and an abundance of resources to make your teaching journey easier and more fulfilling. So, let's dive in!
Episode Takeaways:
- My background in education and experiences have led me to this new phase of growth, where I'll be providing massive support to PDHPE and CAFS teachers.
- Together with our Community Engagement Manager, Mel, we're creating a vibrant PDHPE and CAFS community Facebook group with weekly musings and bite-sized professional learning opportunities.
- The "PDHPE and CAFS Podcast" is getting a fresh makeover, with more guest experts, covering various teaching areas, and prioritizing teacher well-being.
- I'm passionate about helping you save time and energy, so you can focus on creating an amazing life both in and out of the classroom.
- There are multiple ways to engage with the Learning Network, including YouTube masterclasses, the Cavs Collective membership, and exciting new packages for ECE and child studies.
- Your feedback matters to me, as I'm here to tailor the support based on what you need and want to thrive as a PDHPE and CAFS teacher.
Welcome to the first episode of our rebranded "The PDHPE and CAFS Podcast"! Today, we have an extraordinary guest, Aaron Johnston, a true gem and leader in primary education. Aaron shares his journey from teacher to assistant principal and how he found his passion in supporting teachers through coaching and mentoring. Join us as we explore the power of teamwork in teaching, how to create a supportive community, and embrace the joy of experimentation in the classroom. Whether you're a primary or high school teacher, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways!
Episode Takeaways:
- The power of community: Discover how building a supportive network of teachers can bring a positive impact in the classroom.
- Embracing creativity: Find joy in teaching by infusing your unique ideas and creativity into your lessons to engage and excite students.
- Beyond the script: While resources can save time, remember that you have the freedom to personalize and adapt them to suit your students' needs and your teaching style.
- Taking risks in the classroom: Be open to trying new strategies and approaches, even if some experiments fail. It's all part of the learning process.
- Seeking support: If you feel isolated in your school, don't hesitate to explore online teaching communities and mentoring programs that can provide invaluable connections and insights. Together, we can make teaching a magical journey of growth and fulfillment.
In this episode, I'll share my absolute favorite thing about supporting community and family studies (CAFS) teachers. Join me as I dive into why I feel so blessed and grateful to be a part of this incredible community.
Being chosen by you, the CAFS teachers, to offer support and guidance fills me with immense honor and gratitude. It's not a responsibility I take lightly. Whether you're in New South Wales, from Albury Wodonga to Tweed, or anywhere in between, I am grateful to be able to assist you in your teaching journey. CAFS is a beautiful course that makes a significant difference in the lives of our students, families, and communities, and I applaud you for your dedication.
Today, I want to share with you what supporting CAFS teachers means to me and how I strive to save you time, energy, and promote your well-being while helping you achieve freedom and results in your classroom. As we approach May 10th, 2023, I'm excited to announce the upcoming opening of the CAFS Collective, my CAFS membership program. Inside this membership, I provide tailored support to CAFS teachers at any stage of their journey. Join me for webinars, resources, and a wealth of goodies during our launch week.
As a former CAFS teacher myself, I understand the challenges you face. Whether you're new to teaching CAFS or a seasoned professional, I've been in your shoes. Starting back in 2004, armed only with a syllabus and a textbook, I navigated the course and honed my expertise over 16 years in the classroom. Today, my mission is to share strategic and purposeful applications to CAFS, drawing from my wealth of experience and my role as a trusted expert in New South Wales.
Within the Learning Network, my time is dedicated to supporting thousands of CAFS teachers and students through coaching, mentoring, online courses, resources, and master classes. It's a dream come true to be able to focus on helping CAFS teachers full-time. Together, we'll take your CAFS crew to the next level without sacrificing your well-being.
If you're ready to teach CAFS with a more strategic approach and help your students achieve their desired results while loving the subject, you've come to the right place. Join me on this podcast as we explore simplified strategies, get inspired, and connect, learn, and grow together.
This week I'm so thrilled to be sharing with you some success stories of our members inside the CAFS Collective! My favourite thing to do to help support CAFS teachers across New South Wales no matter where you are on your journey, and I'm absolutely blessed to have so many incredible members inside our membership whose stories I am proud to share with you. If you're on the fence about joining The CAFS Collective, please listen up because in today's podcast episode, you're going to hear the absolute magic and transformation that our members have had inside the membership. Ifyou would like some more details, head over to thelearnnet.com/collective
In this episode, I'll share my absolute favorite thing about supporting community and family studies (CAFS) teachers. Join me as I dive into why I feel so blessed and grateful to be a part of this incredible community.
Being chosen by you, the CAFS teachers, to offer support and guidance fills me with immense honor and gratitude. It's not a responsibility I take lightly. Whether you're in New South Wales, from Albury Wodonga to Tweed, or anywhere in between, I am grateful to be able to assist you in your teaching journey. CAFS is a beautiful course that makes a significant difference in the lives of our students, families, and communities, and I applaud you for your dedication.
Today, I want to share with you what supporting CAFS teachers means to me and how I strive to save you time, energy, and promote your well-being while helping you achieve freedom and results in your classroom. As we approach May 10th, 2023, I'm excited to announce the upcoming opening of the CAFS Collective, my CAFS membership program. Inside this membership, I provide tailored support to CAFS teachers at any stage of their journey. Join me for webinars, resources, and a wealth of goodies during our launch week.
As a former CAFS teacher myself, I understand the challenges you face. Whether you're new to teaching CAFS or a seasoned professional, I've been in your shoes. Starting back in 2004, armed only with a syllabus and a textbook, I navigated the course and honed my expertise over 16 years in the classroom. Today, my mission is to share strategic and purposeful applications to CAFS, drawing from my wealth of experience and my role as a trusted expert in New South Wales.
Within the Learning Network, my time is dedicated to supporting thousands of CAFS teachers and students through coaching, mentoring, online courses, resources, and master classes. It's a dream come true to be able to focus on helping CAFS teachers full-time. Together, we'll take your CAFS crew to the next level without sacrificing your well-being.
If you're ready to teach CAFS with a more strategic approach and help your students achieve their desired results while loving the subject, you've come to the right place. Join me on this podcast as we explore simplified strategies, get inspired, and connect, learn, and grow together.
In today's episode, Kelly is discussing practical strategies to help your students achieve a band five or six in Community and Family Studies. As a teacher, you may have students who you feel are struggling to keep up, but there are characteristics that you can look for to help guide you towards the right support. Kelly is unpacking proven techniques that have been successfully implemented by experienced CAFS teachers to help their students achieve top results.
If you're looking for more in-depth guidance, we also have two upcoming workshops called HSC Success in CAFS. These workshops are being led by experienced senior markers and CAFS teachers who have consistently achieved above-average results with their students. We will be sharing hands-on tips and tricks to help your students improve their HSC results year after year. One workshop is taking place on May 12th in Forster, and the other will be held on May 19th at Nagle College in Blacktown, New South Wales.
Don't miss out on these valuable insights and sign up for our workshops today at thelearnnet.com/HSC. Let's work together to help our students achieve their full potential in Community and Family Studies.
In this episode, we will be discussing five tips to achieve above the state average in Community & Family Studies. If you're a CAFS teacher looking to improve your students' performance and create a strong sense of community in your classroom, then this episode is for you!
I'm sharing five tips that will help you build those critical band four, five, and six results, including:
- Teaching skills explicitly is essential to help students master the content.
- Focusing on the application of content will aid in student understanding and retention.
- Engaging teaching and learning activities can bring your classroom to life, making students excited to learn.
- Building rapport with your students can foster a positive learning environment, which is essential for their success.
- Creating a CAFS community within your class and across other CAFS classes can lead to excellent results.
If you enjoyed these tips and are looking to learn more, I'd love to invite you to join The CAFS Collective, a membership program designed to support CAFS teachers in achieving their teaching goals. Additionally, I will be hosting in-person events called HSC Success Sessions, featuring successful CAFS teachers sharing their strategies for achieving high band results consistently. (Find out more at thelearnnet.com/events)
So tune in and learn how to create a supportive and engaging learning environment that will help your students achieve above the state average in Community & Family Studies.
In this episode of the CAFS Podcast, I'm joined by Nikki Bignell, a CAFS teacher and member of the CAFS collective. Nikki shares her experience teaching CAFS for the past three years, with a focus on compressed curriculum schools. She also discusses her background in teaching PDHPE for 13 years and how it has helped her transition to senior teaching.
Throughout the episode, Nikki provides valuable insights on how to effectively teach CAFS in a compressed curriculum, including strategies for time management and content delivery. She also shares her approach to preparing her students for the upcoming HSC exams, her favorite topics to teach in CAFS, and the importance of building strong relationships with students.
This episode is a must-listen for any CAFS teacher looking to improve their teaching practices, especially those teaching in a compressed curriculum school. Nikki's expertise and passion for teaching CAFS shines through in this engaging and informative conversation.
In this episode, I'm going to share the five most common mistakes that students make in Community and Family Studies, and what they can do to avoid them.
Having been involved in CAFS for many years, I've worked with lots of CAFS teachers and students, and I've seen these mistakes time and time again. To be honest, I think some teachers may not even be aware of these mistakes, which is why I want to discuss them in this episode.
So, if you're a CAFS teacher or student, I encourage you to grab a pen and paper or use a note-taking app to take notes while listening to this episode. I'm going to share a lot of tips and tricks that will help you improve your understanding of CAFS and avoid these common mistakes.
I've been involved in CAFS for 16 years, and I've seen these mistakes during HSC marking. That's why I want to share them with you so that you can help your students move past them and excel in CAFS.
If you're interested in joining the upcoming CAFS marking experience with me and Marty, head over to thelearnnet.com/markingcafs for more information.
So, tune in and learn how to help your students avoid the mistakes that are holding them back in CAFS.
Looking back and realising that HSC marking gave me more than what I bargained for was very worthwhile... Often we do things and go through the motions until we finally get to stop and take the time digest!!! This week's Podcast episode unpacks My Top 5 Lessons from Marking HSC Community & Family Studies for 16 years (including 3 years as a HSC marker, one year as a Judge, 10 years as a Senior Marker and 5 years as the NSW Supervisor of Marking in HSC Community and Family Studies). Grab that pen and paper, Google Keep or Notes in your phone... Curious to see what this actually looks like? Join us for Marking Experience in CAFS, an opportunity to experience what it is really like to mark Community & Family Studies so your students are set up for success in your class (year after year!). Head to thelearnnet.com/markingcafs to sign up, but hurry spots are limited!!! Hit the "Subscribe" button so you don't miss an episode. Love this Podcast? Write a review and give it a 5 star rating. I would love to hear from you. To support your time, energy & wellbeing grab my Community and Family Studies resources at: https://thelearnnet.com/resources To have ongoing support alongside likeminded Community and Family Studies teachers across NSW, plus the support and mentorship of Kelly Bell join my Community and Family Studies Membership The CAFS Collective! https://thelearnnet.com/collective For all the show notes and links head to: https://thelearnnet.com/50 Connect with Kelly on Instgram: https://thelearnnet.com/kellybell.coach
Always cheering & supporting you! - Kelly
I LOVE data!!! Yep I said it. I love HSC data!!! It enables us to see what the data tells us what our students have done well, improvements to be made, the gaps in their understanding and skills plus specific detail to help us improve OUR practice. Join me as I interview data analysis guru Graham Wright from Edu Consulting. We chat about: * HSC Data * HSC Item Analysis * ATAR and Scaling * How Community and Family Studies teachers can use data * Common myths around Community and Family Studies * How teachers can use data to inform their practice and make decisions Graham was our expert in The CAFS Collective, my Community and Family Studies membership to support teachers no matter where they are in their journey of teaching. To join our membership, head to thelearnnet.com/collective To connect and work with Graham Website: https://www.datainschools.com.au/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/nswhscdiscussion
All this talk about HSC, data and results reminds me that rego is now open for Marking Experience in Community and Family Studies! If you are new to seniors, are teaching CAFS for the first time and/or have never done HSC marking in CAFS I would love for you to join is. To check it out and register, head to:
https://thelearnnet.com/markingcafs Hit the "Subscribe" button so you don't miss an episode. Love this Podcast? Write a review and give it a 5 star rating. I would love to hear from you. To support your time, energy & wellbeing grab my Community and Family Studies resources at: https://thelearnnet.com/resources To have ongoing support alongside likeminded Community and Family Studies teachers across NSW, plus the support and mentorship of Kelly Bell join my Community and Family Studies Membership The CAFS Collective! https://thelearnnet.com/collective For all the show notes and links head to: https://thelearnnet.com/50 Connect with Kelly on Instgram: https://thelearnnet.com/kellybell.coach Always cheering & supporting you! - Kelly
Are you stuck for ideas to work with your Year 11 Community & Family Studies students? Want to make every lesson count with your Year 11 CAFS Crew? In today's Podcast episode, we chat about what you can do to make meaningful connections from the Year 11 Community & Family Studies course to Year 12 Community & Family Studies content. I walk you through the Year Community & Family Studies course to show you where you can link to Year 12 content strategically to maximise students' results and success in our course. Let's face it, we only have seven terms with our CAFS Crew and we want to make EVERY.SINGLE.LESSON count! Get your pen and paper or laptop handy because we dive right into the Year 11 Community & Family Studies course and I give you countless ideas to implement into your classroom right away. If you are looking for lesson by lesson ideas, teaching and learning activities, content mapping, learning intentions & success criteria, exam preparation questions and assessment ideas to set your Year 11 Community & Family Studies students for success my. course is jam packed. My Year 11 Community & Family Studies Course supports Community and Family Studies teachers with strategic and purposeful ways to teach the Year 11 course so students are set up for success. Join over 160 teachers across NSW who have are working with their Year 11 CAFS Crew in a more engaging, more purposeful & meaningful way! To check it out and register, head to:
https://thelearnnet.com/11cafs Hit the "Subscribe" button so you don't miss an episode. Love this Podcast? Write a review and give it a 5 star rating. I would love to hear from you. To support your time, energy & wellbeing grab my Community and Family Studies resources at: https://thelearnnet.com/resources To have ongoing support alongside likeminded Community and Family Studies teachers across NSW, plus the support and mentorship of Kelly Bell join my Community and Family Studies Membership The CAFS Collective! https://thelearnnet.com/collective For all the show notes and links head to: https://thelearnnet.com/49 Connect with Kelly on Instgram: https://thelearnnet.com/kellybell.coach Always cheering & supporting you! - Kelly
Are you sitting there staring at your computer and the syllabus trying to work WHAT & HOW to assess your Year 11 Community & Family Studies class? Look no further, in today's Podcast episode we unpack what you can do to create purposeful and meaningful assessment tasks for your Year 11 Community & Family Studies class (year after year without tearing your hair out!) We unpack what you need to assess knowledge, understanding and skills to set your Year 11 Community & Family Studies class for success (so they are ready and prepped for the HSC). I share what you can do to assess your students with big picture concepts in the course to test knowledge, through application of understanding via case studies, situations & scenarios as well as assessing their skills in the course. If you are looking for some ideas, you will find countless assessment ideas and questions inside my Year 11 Community & Family Studies Course.
My Year 11 Community & Family Studies Course supports Community and Family Studies teachers with strategic and purposeful ways to teach the Year 11 course so students are set up for success. Join over 160 teachers across NSW who have are working with their Year 11 CAFS Crew in a more engaging, more purposeful & meaningful way! To check it out and register, head to:
https://thelearnnet.com/11cafs Hit the "Subscribe" button so you don't miss an episode. Love this Podcast? Write a review and give it a 5 star rating. I would love to hear from you. To support your time, energy & wellbeing grab my Community and Family Studies resources at: https://thelearnnet.com/resources To have ongoing support alongside likeminded Community and Family Studies teachers across NSW, plus the support and mentorship of Kelly Bell join my Community and Family Studies Membership The CAFS Collective! https://thelearnnet.com/collective For all the show notes and links head to: https://thelearnnet.com/48 Connect with Kelly on Instgram: https://thelearnnet.com/kellybell.coach Always cheering & supporting you! - Kelly
Look, no one has probably told you these things...it is not in the syllabus, I completely get it!
Have you been teaching Community and Family Studies for a while? Are you a Newbie to Community and Family Studies? In today's Podcast episode we unpack the 3 Biggest Mistakes Teachers are Still Making in Community and Family Studies in 2023. If you want to improve student writing to increase HSC results in Community and Family Studies this Podcast epsiode is going to be highly valuable to set your students up for success. The strategies, ideas, resources and templates I share during this Podcast episode are available in my signature program Strive. Strive supports Community and Family Studies teachers with a skills based approach to improve student writing to increase HSC results.
This course will give you the templates, resources, strategies & skills for your students to nail every assessment & exam question. Join over 125 teachers across NSW who have gone from just surviving to thriving inside my Community and Family Studies Strive course. To check it out and regsiter, head to: https://thelearnnet.com/strive Hurry, rego closes Feb 15 2023 @ Midnight! Hit the "Subscribe" button so you don't miss an episode. Love this Podcast? Write a review and give it a 5 star rating. I would love to hear from you. To support your time, energy & wellbeing grab my Community and Family Studies resources at: https://thelearnnet.com/resources To have ongoing support alongside likeminded Community and Family Studies teachers across NSW, plus the support and mentorship of Kelly Bell join my Community and Family Studies Membership The CAFS Collective! https://thelearnnet.com/collective For all the show notes and links head to: https://thelearnnet.com/47 Connect with Kelly on Instgram: https://thelearnnet.com/kellybell.coach Always cheering & supporting you! - Kelly
Are you being asked to analyse your Community and Family Studies HSC Results? It is that time of year when your principal is knocking at your classroom door to get you to analyse results from the 2022 HSC. In this epsidoe, we unpack the importance of analysing your Community and Family Studies HSC Results and practical steps you can use to review data from the 2022 HSC. RAP Data has had the biggest impact on my journey as a HSC Community and Family Studies teacher and I will share with you what I have done to use it to make strategic and purposeful decisions in my CAFS classroom.
thelearnnet.com/46
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, a podcast for educators, teachers, entrepreneurs and Community and Family Studies students, I am joined by a very special guest, Megan Durham, who shares with us what we can do to protect our time, our energy and our wellbeing.
If you've followed me for a while you would know that time, energy and wellbeing is the core of The Learning Network, so when Megan I connected, I knew instantly that I wanted her on the podcast.
This episode is really awesome if you're feeling the pinch of this time of the year or you're nervous about the year to come, which I know is the case for many of my Community and Family Studies teachers. If you listen along, you are going to come away from today's episode with so many strategies, tips, hints and wellbeing related things that you can action straight away and I know you're going to really enjoy Meg's analogies!
So listen along and grab the show notes at thelearnnet.com/44 to take the first steps towards unlocking your business potential!
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I will be chatting to you about 5 lessons I have learnt throughout 2022!
This year has been a bit of a different one for me and I just wanted to share some things I have learnt in my personal life and work life as I moved into my 3rd year of my business!
So listen alson and grab the show notes at thelearnnet.com/44.
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, we're talking about how you can have the freedom and flexibility, both in the life that you create for yourself and inside your own business!
No matter where you're at in life, what your life looks like or where it's going, you have to create that magic by working out what's going to work for you, your family, your happiness and your wellbeing!
Throughout the episode I share my journey into entrepreneurship as an educator. I chat about how I started and the challenges that I face, but also the freedom and flexibility that I now have inside my business.
So listen along and grab the show notes at thelearnnet.com/43 to take the first steps towards unlocking your business potential!
Ready to dive right in to your business? Visit thelearnnet.com/membership to learn more about my Educator to Entrepreneur Membership and how I can use my expertise to help guide and support you!
In today's podcast episode, I chat to you about a few little things I did when I first started my Educator to Entrepreneur journey.
I will chat about how I started, how I dove straight in head first and what I did to make the most of what I had to offer and the skills in my back pocket!
After leaving the classroom, I went from three weeks of sitting on the lounge feeling very down to saying "You know what, I'm not going to be impacted by this, this is going to add fuel to my fire to actually make a bigger impact on education." And now, 2.5 years later, I have made a successful business out of doing just that.
So listen along and grab the show notes at thelearnnet.com/42 to take the first steps towards unlocking your business potential!
Ready to dive right in to your business? Visit thelearnnet.com/membership to learn more about my Educator to Entrepreneur Membership and how I can use my expertise to help guide and support you!
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I'm sharing a little bit about my educator to entrepreneur journey!
Although lifting the lid off my business is something I'm a bit nervous about, I can't wait to show you the potential inside my business as well as what I've been able to do to support my community of beautiful CAFS teachers!
This episode with dive into my journey from leaving the classroom to jumping head first into creating a business of my own by unlocking the full potential of the skills I had sitting in my back pocket.
I will also be helping you think about what YOU have in your back pocket! What is your area of expertise that can be used to deliver massive value to your community? Where are the gaps in the market?
So listen along and grab the show notes at thelearnnet.com/41 to take the first steps towards unlocking your business potential!
Ready to dive right in to your business? Visit thelearnnet.com/membership to learn more about my Educator to Entrepreneur Membership and how I can use my expertise to help guide and support you!
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I am chatting to you about focusing on what really matters and this time of year!
As we head into the busy end of Term 4 it's important for us to focus on the things that really matter, both as an educator, as a parent, but also as a person. Many of us may be feeling the pinch of this time of year so taking steps to minimise stress, anxiety and burnout will enable you to enjoy the holiday season!
So, I hope today's episode brings you some sort of clarity on what you should be focusing on right now, ticking off what you need to do without adding a thousand things to your list!
Visit thelearnnet.com/40 to grab the show notes!
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I am joined by Kell Quarell to talk about creating energy and flow into the end of the year.
This conversation is all about what you can do to move into the busy end of the year with a strong mindset and positive energy!
Kell is a rule follower gone rogue, a lifelong learner, adventurer and spiritual enthusiast with a passion for all things mindset. With over 16 years experience of being her own boss and running multiple companies, Kell has learned what it takes to be successful, not just in business but in life. Kell has worked with women for the last 25 years as a creator and facilitator women's empowerment retreats and workshops and knows firsthand the importance of creating and maintaining positive practices to ensure a strong mindset.
You can find Kell at @kellquarrell on Instagram or at www.kellquarrell.com.au
So listen along as we discuss how you can bring the enthusiasm and magic back into this time of the year!
Listen and grab the show notes at thelearnnet.com/39!
This episode of The Learning Network Podcast is going to be all about why we never stopped learning as CAFS teachers.
Even after 18 years of CAFS experience, co-authoring 2 textbooks, marking exams and presenting professional learning for the best part of 12 years, there's always something new to learn, always room to grow.
In this episode I'm joined by two of my beautiful CAFS Collective members, Kate Hampstead and Courtney Pershouse, who I interviewed throughout the year.
Both of these amazing teachers has taken a number of different courses inside the Learning Network but are here to chat today about why they continue to back themselves, why they continue to do professional learning, and why it is so important to be surrounded by like minded teachers.
As Courtney and Kate talk about their experience in The CAFS Collective, they reveal the power of having people around you get it, who are there for support and are so generous with sharing resources and ideas.
If you're ready to join The CAFS Collective, check it out at thelearnnet.com/collective!
You can find this episode's show notes at thelearnnet.com/38.
In this week's jam packed episode of The Learning Network Podcast we're going to unpack some of the common mistakes that still being made in CAFS, in particular the Research Methodology module.
These common mistakes are part of the reason our kids really struggle in the Research Methodology section of the HSC and why I continue to see the same misunderstandings and incorrect answers year after year after year.
If you're interested in continuing to learn and grow to help your student succeed, check out The CAFS Collective Membership at thelearnnet.com/collective.
Check out this episode's show notes at thelearnnet.com/37.
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I unpack how you can get out of your CAFS bubble & go big with your CAFS crew with the support of like-minded CAFS teachers!
This episode was inspired by the 2022 CAFS conference, which I can only describe as magic! The power of connection was so rich there and, although I absolutely love being able to work from home, I absolutely love connecting with people face to face. Nothing beats it.
One of the biggest things that I got out of the CAFS conference, which is one of the many strategies I discuss in this episode, is the importance of surrounding yourself by like minded teachers!
If you are listening to this live, the CAFS collective doors are wide open for 2023 memberships! This is the perfect opportunity to connect & strategise with me & fellow CAFS teachers across the state in a supportive environment tailor-made for & by you!!
Visit thelearnnet.com/collective to learn more!
In this week's episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I am joined by courage creator & resilience revolutionary, the appropriately named, Nadine Champion! Nadine is an international speaker, mindset coach, champion kickboxer & martial artist whose mission is to help women get back up, leave life’s dressing room and courageously create a life they love.
In this episode, Nadine is going to unpack a few things around courage and resilience and how we can be the best versions of ourselves. Nadine explains how she uses mindset training to overcome that wild voice in our heads that doesn't always say the nicest things by using our emotions, feelings and thoughts as fuel for positivity rather than letting them get in our way.
Grab the show notes at thelearnnet.com/35!
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I unpack the power of community!
I have connected with so many amazing educators over the last 18 and a half years, both while I taught CAFS & since I began supporting CAFS teachers. I've been around for a while and many of the teachers I have met, learnt from, supported or developed friendships with have made a bigger impact on me than they will ever realise! This episode is dedicated to them!
This episode will empower you and remind you about the importance of connection, the importance of us working together rather than in silo and the importance of us connecting, learning and growing together.
If you are listening to this live, the CAFS conference is coming up on the 14th and 15th October, 2022, and will be held in the most amazing magical place, Killcare on the Central Coast. I am so excited to be able to host this conference in person, connecting CAFS teachers from across NSW and enabling that sense of community and connection that has been missed over the last couple of years! This conference is designed to help you build confidence and really understand the content you’re teaching with strategic sessions and guest speakers!
Visit thelearnnet.com/conference to learn more about the 2022 CAFS Conference!
Grab the episode show notes at thelearnnet.com/34!
In this week's episode, I am joined by a very special guest, Sharna Dawson. Sharna has a very extensive 20-year career in education, working as a PDHPE teacher for 8 years before retraining. Sharna found her passion in working with students to discover their careers, so she completed a graduate certificate in career development.
Today, Sharna will unpack what you can do to get the right kids into the CAFS course and keep them there. She's also going to dive into some common myths around CAFS and what you can do to capture the students you want and build that sense of community & passion in your course!
We also chat about the IRP, a very small part of our CAFS course which often adds a lot of unnecessary stress & creates so much extra marking. It doesn't have to be like that & I can show you how in my Strategic Approaches to the IRP course, which has helped over 250 CAFS teachers across NSW facilitate the IRP successfully without sacrificing their time and wellbeing in the process.
Visit thelearnnet.com/33 to grab the episode show notes and visit thelearnnet.com/irp to learn more about the Strategic Approaches to the IRP course!
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast I dive into the reasons why students shouldn't be writing notes!!
Re-writing notes on the course content is a waste of valuable revision time & energy. Revision is a time to apply knowledge & skills by completing past exam questions & other strategic revision activities!
Listen along as I share with you some strategies that you can use to help your students succeed in both Community and Family Studies and PDHPE!
In the episode, I also chat about my Year 12 MasterClass Sessions, which allow me to work with you & your kids in a session tailored to their specific needs. These sessions enable me to give your kids direct feedback, personalised strategies & a fresh perspective from a CAFS coach who has had years of experience teaching & marking the course. You will also get access to a booklet for the students to use throughout the session & beyond, with templates, scaffolds, brand new HSC style questions, tips & tricks & more!
Visit thelearnnet.com/masterclass to check out my MasterClasses!
Visit thelearnnet.com/32 for the episode show notes!
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast I am joined by Jess George-Loulach to chat about some of the misconceptions surrounding CAFS, especially the idea that it is a subject just for girls!
Community and Family Studies has so many real world lessons embedded within the course & can set students up for personal & professional success, no matter their gender.
Listen along & grab the shownotes at thelearnnet.com/31
In this week's episode of The Learning Network Podcast I share some resources to help you share your love of CAFS!
I have updated the free "Tools to Promote CAFS" resource on The Learning Network homepage so you have all you need to let the students at your school know just how great CAFS is!
With information on the course modules, content, learning opportunities & career options, this is the perfect resource to give students as they decide on their subject choices for stage 6! Hang the pages up as posters or use it as a hand out & share your love of CAFS!
Check out the show notes & download the free "Tools to Promote CAFS" resource at thelearnnet.com/30!
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast I dive into why it is so important to have deep understanding of how HSC marking really works.
Setting your students up for success in their exams is reliant on confidence, meaningful teaching & lessons & skills taught with the end goal in mind.
If you're looking to gain valuable insight into how HSC marking actually works, check out Marking Experience in CAFS; so you can best prepare your students for their exams every step of the way.
Check out the show notes at thelearnnet.com/29 for more information!
Want to know some practical stratgeies that you can implement to improve your time and wellbeing?
How to say NO!
Avoiding distractions
Preventing burnout
Protecting yourself from others
Just some practical ways that I unpack in this episode!
Absolute GAME CHANGER in CAFS...
The number of Community and Family Studies teachers across the state who do not know this ONE thing is mind blowing!
By implementing just the ONE thing, you are going to make a HUGE impact on your CAFS Crew.
The best thing you can do right now to make your Community and Family Studies life so much easier is to connect concepts across the course.
Looking at the big picture is crucial to success in Community and Family Studies. It also enables you to be able to work smarter and for your students to see thise strategic connections.
Want to know why my Community and Family Studies teachers keep coming back for more?!
Join Kate Hampstead and I chat about the benefits of working together, the power of collaboration and why Community and Family Studies teachers keep coming back again and again!
So busy you are struggling to take the time to look after yourself? Feeling the pinch?
Looking for a better way to support you and your students?
Learn how busy Community and Family Studies teachers and their students can be set for success (without experiencing burnout)
Sick of reinventing the wheel? Let's talk about how you can be much more strategic and purposeful in Community and Family Studies!
In this episode we chat about The MOST valuable resource a CAFS teacher needs to help them have strategy, purpose and connection in their classroom!
I chat with Community and Family Studies teacher about why joining The CAFS Collective alongside likemninded CAFS teachers was a complete no brainer for her. We chat about the complete transformation that she has made and successes she has witnessed in her classroom.
Let's swing those doors to our Community and Family Studies Classrooms WIDE open and capture what is key to have purpose and strategy with our students.
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast I'm joined by Melissa Marsden to talk about how we can be more effective & more efficient by maximising our workspaces.
Melissa Marsden is a workplace strategist as well as the director and founder of COMUNiTI, which is a commercial workplace Design Studio, & in this episode she stresses the importance of alternative spaces which support really deep cognitive thinking.
Now, I know what some of our workspaces look like, old, dingy & tired with clutter everywhere and I know many of us get distracted by various things, including various tasks or conversations with our colleagues that aren't necessarily maximising our potential or productivity.
So, join us for an insightful conversation that will open up your eyes to what we can really learn from businesses to make our own workspaces a lot more effective.
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I am joined by Dr Kristy Goodwin for a conversation about digital Wellbeing!
Listen along as Kristy explains why she doesn't promote digital detox or "digital amputation" and how can we use technology in healthy and helpful ways.
Technology can cause so much harm but, in today's society it has tentacles in every part of our lives, meaning we cannot be effective teachers, nor can our students effectively learn, without it. Kristy dives into the biology which sees human fulfillment gained through physical and psychological means & the ways technology can be used in congruence with this neurobiology.
This conversation is so timely for us as teachers being bombarded by technology as well as our students & so many things that Christie shares are practical, not only for our students, but for us as educators navigating this digital world that completely surrounds us.
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I explain the importance of the Glossary of Keywords & unpack strategies that can be used to ensure your students have the best chance of success in CAFS & beyond.
Demonstrating and applying a thorough understanding of exam questions & course content is reliant on the appropriate use of language, with keywords informing the direction & nature of a response.
So many teachers & students don't realise the impact that these words have on their students answers and, as a result, they or their students are missing out on crucial marks.
So jump into today's highly practical episode where you will get lots of new strategies to help your students improve their responses by really embedding those keywords & verbs!
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I am joined by the inspirational Angela Lockwood to chat about the importance of being aware of all the different needs of the students in your classroom & prioritising the wellbeing of both you & your students.
Angela is an occupational therapist & author who, for the last 20 years, has been working in classrooms to provide school based Occupational Therapy services focusing on the inclusion of children with diverse needs.
We chat about leading with your heart and not your head as one of the most important ways to make a true difference to the lives of those smiling faces looking up at you & dive in to some of the practical ways you can do this in your classroom.
So join us for an episode that will touch your heart, make you think about important things in your class &, if you're anything like me, may even give you goosebumps!
In this episode, I chat with Bel Harotounian about her five top tips to become a Marking Ninja in Community and Family Studies. We chat about what you can do to improve the way you mark your Year 11 and Year 12 Community and Family Studies students, as well as give them feedback about their learning which will ultimately improve their knowledge, understanding and skills in preparation for the HSC.
Show notes: thelearnnet.com/23
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I uncover the power of purposeful feedback in the CAFS classroom. Marking with only ticks, crosses and a number is not enough. This method doesn't allow students to grow & develop their skills & understanding.
By providing valuable, individualised feedback, you can help your students visualise a clear pathway forward & guide them to achieve the marks you, they & you school want.
Listen as I unpack some strategies to make your life so much easier when tailoring your feedback to your students & enabling them to succeed!
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I offer guidance and uncover some practical strategies around differentiating in your CAFS classroom. Differentiating can be difficult as it is totally unique to each classroom situation. However, tailoring our teaching and learning to the needs of our students sitting right in front of us is so important to their success.
Listen to hear 4 actionable strategies to help tailor your teaching & enable your students to succeed!
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I reveal the biggest game-changer when it comes to CAFS!
Listen to learn the common mistake you and your students are making during the year/leading up to exams and what you should be doing instead!
I chat about Strive, my signature course, which is the perfect course for all CAFS teachers, no matter how experienced you are. The 8 modules are specifically designed to transform, improve & streamline in your CAFS classroom!
Show notes: thelearnnet.com/20
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I talk about the common mistakes teachers are making in exam preparation! Learn what you can do instead to set your students up for success in their CAFS exams!
I chat about Strive, my signature course, which is the perfect course for all CAFS teachers, no matter how experienced you are. The 8 modules are specifically designed to transform, improve & streamline in your CAFS classroom!
Show notes: thelearnnet.com/19
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I chat about what you can do to improve student writing & results to fast track success in CAFS!
I chat about Strive, my signature course, which is the perfect course for all CAFS teachers, no matter how experienced you are. The 8 modules are specifically designed to transform, improve & streamline in your CAFS classroom!
Show notes: thelearnnet.com/18
n this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I tell you why writing notes doesn't cut it anymore!
Learn what you can do in the CAFS classroom instead, with lessons that are purposefully designed for specific learning outcomes & to teach specific integral skills.
I chat about Strive, my signature course, which is the perfect course for all CAFS teachers, no matter how experienced you are. The 8 modules are specifically designed to transform, improve & streamline in your CAFS classroom!
Show notes: thelearnnet.com/17
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I chat about what the CAFS syllabus doesn't teach you & what you can do to ensure your students learn the skills they need to achieve CAFS success!
I chat about Strive, my signature course, which is the perfect course for all CAFS teachers, no matter how experienced you are. The 8 modules are specifically designed to transform, improve & streamline in your CAFS classroom!
Show notes: thelearnnet.com/16
In this episode of The Learning Network Podcast, I chat about about the methods to my madness. If you've worked with me before you'll know that there's always a reason or a purpose behind what I do and I want to unpack that with you today!
I explain what you guys can do to work more purposefully and make sure you're maximising everything that you have available in your CAFS realm as well as the importance of making purposeful connections across the syllabus and creating lessons with the endgame in mind so your students have the best chance of success when the HSC come around!
I also chat about my free webinar on Thursday February the 17th at 8pm. Head over to thelearnnet.com/results to sign up and I'll share with you my three top tips to improve student results, fast track success, and get you the results that your school wants.
I hope you enjoy this episode!
Grab the show notes: thelearnnet.com/15
This week's episode is all about what you can do to really bring your CAFS classroom to life!
From cooperative learning groups and connecting with your students to creating a positive physical space, this episode has so many teaching gems you can implement in the new year!
This week's episode is all about what you can do to really bring your CAFS classroom to life!
From cooperative learning groups and connecting with your students to creating a positive physical space, this episode has so many teaching gems you can implement in the new year!
In this episode I reflect on 2021 and talk about some of my goals for 2022! I also chat about a few things I'll be doing differently in 2022 including new projects, offers and affirmation/organisational tools!
In this podcast episode, I chat with our daughters Cass & Lex! This is a funny episode where we chat about the changes they have seen since I left the classroom, what they think I actually do for work and what they love about school. One you wont want to miss!
Grab the show notes: thelearnnet.com/12
To celebrate my 40th birthday on December 15, 2021 I share with you my top forty lessons that I have learnt in my 40 years on earth in life, relationships, family, friendships and teaching. Many of these lessons can be applied to CAFS too! This is a little insight into my life and my journey so far.
Grab the show notes: thelearnnet.com/11
In this episode, we chat about what you can do to get your time and wellbeing back before the holidays. By prioritising in certain areas and getting those programmes, registers and classrooms ready so you can enjoy your well deserved holidays.
I also chat about the steps you can take before next year to ensure your students get the results they should, including STRIVE, my online course which helps CAFS teachers develop a skills based approach to teaching the course which enables students to confidently and successfully tackle the HSC.
Grab the show notes: thelearnnet.com/10
In this podcast episode we unpack what success looks like in CAFS and what you can do to up your game in this course that we all love. I share the 4 biggest challenges I believe CAFS teachers are having right now in their CAFS classroom and what you can do to achieve the goals and dreams you have set for yourself in this course. This episode will help you work more strategically in CAFS, build your students up for success, grow & flourish as a CAFS teacher and action what success looks like.
Grab the show notes here: thelearnnet.com/7
This episode is a special one as I am joined by my beautiful teacher and friend Jennie O'Donoghue (and CAFS legend).
If you have met Jen before on your CAFS journey you would know that she always lights up the CAFS space with her big heart and cheekiness. Jen shares with us her lessons from the classroom from the last 45 years in teaching and what she has done over the last 30 + years to develop relationships and results in her CAFS classroom for HSC success.
Grab the show notes here: thelearnnet.com/9
In this episode, I celebrate what it looks like to cheer you on from the sideline and who has had the most influence on me as an educator.
If you have worked with me before in CAFS, you would know that what you see is what you get and I am all giving- to be able to bring all of my gifts and expertise from my 16 years in the CAFS classroom for you to go BIG with your CAFS Crew.
thelearnet.com/8
In today's episode I chat with my special guest and friend Dan Jackson about how teachers can work less and teach more!
Dan is an educational consultant who has a wealth of experience in education and leadership. We chat about the importance of getting back to our core business which is actually teaching.
As CAFS teachers we know how important it is to prevent teacher burnout, but Dan gives us practical tips that we can implement in the classroom straight away to protect our time and wellbeing.
We are lucky to have a sneak peek into Dan's new book (which has already landed in Amazon's Best Seller's list) Work Less, Teach More.
Grab the show notes: thelearnnet.com/6
In this episode I am joined by Katrine Barnes. Katrine shares how to successfully apply teaching strategies and connect with your students to improve their CAFS journey. Katrine explains when to change up your methods and how to realise when what you're doing is working!
Grab the show notes: thelearnnet.com/5
This episode unpacks what you can do to bring your CAFS classroom to life! From making connections with your students,
to including them in examples and transforming your classroom-
I share with you strategies and practices that I have adopted over the last 16 years to bring my CAFS classroom to life and have my students wanting to come back lesson after lesson.
Grab the show notes: thelearnnet.com/4
Honestly, you are going to LOVE this Podcast episode. This conversation is real, it is raw. Gab promised me she would be my first guest on my podcast over 10 months ago... Gabbie is the best selling author of two books about the ups and downs, twists and turns of a teacher, 'Teacher' and 'Dear Parents'. If you have been looking for ways to protect yourself and your wellbeing, Gabbie shares with us what she has learnt about protecting yourself as a teacher, and what we can do to continue to advocate for ourselves as educators. This is one thought provoking episode that will get you thinking.
Grab the show notes: thelearnnet.com/3
In this episode, I get to share with you my foundations for building success in Community and Family Studies using all of my knowledge and experience and expertise in this course. I share my 5 strategies for success and what you can do to set your CAFS students up for success, right from the very beginning!
Grab the show notes: thelearnnet.com/2
Welcome to Episode # 1 of The Learning Network. In this first episode, I chat about why I created this Podcast and share a little bit about myself. I have spent most of my career in secondary education, dabbled in tertiary education for a short three month stint and have spent the last ten years supporting the professional learning of teachers across NSW and Australia. The majority of my teaching journey has been as a secondary high school teacher in both Catholic and public schools sharing my love of health, physical education and wellbeing in all courses in Years 7-12 under the Personal Development, Health and Physical Education Key Learning Area with a special passion for a Year 11 and 12 course called Community and Family Studies (CAFS). My hope for The Learning Network is to support teachers in education by connecting, learning and growing together to be the best educators we can be and to make a difference with the students and learners with whom we work. Show notes: thelearnnet.com/1