3. Creating a Coherent History Curriculum with Mapper: In Conversation with Melissa King

Bedrock Talks from Bedrock Learning

#Bedrock Learning #Literacy #Vocabulary #Ed Tech #Teachers #Literacy Improvement #Whole-school Literacy #Reinforce Teaching And Learning #Cpd For Teachers #Literacy Cpd #High-quality T&l #Outstanding Teaching Practice #Free Cpd #Podcasting Education #Disciplinary Literacy #English Teaching

34:35

Marcia Clark, best known as the lead prosecutor in the O.J. Simpson trial, has become a trailblazer for women in law and beyond. Her journey from courtroom to bestselling author reflects her resilience and determination to redefine herself amidst intense public scrutiny. On this episode of Worth Knowing, Clark dives into her latest book, *Trial by Ambush*, which examines the 1953 Barbara Graham case—a story that highlights gender bias, media sensationalism, and the notion that all cases are subject to societal, cultural, and political winds. Clark shares how her experiences during the Simpson trial shaped her perspective on societal pressures and the role of women in high-stakes professions. Her reflections on how media, forensic science, and legal practices have evolved over decades offer valuable insights into the intersection of law and culture. This conversation is a compelling exploration of true crime, personal growth, and how Clark’s groundbreaking career continues to inspire a new generation of women to challenge norms and forge their own paths. Marcia Clark is a bestselling author and a criminal lawyer who began her career in law as a criminal defense attorney and went on to become a prosecutor in the L.A. District Attorney's Office in 1981. She spent ten years in the Special Trials Unit, where she handled a number of high-profile cases, including the prosecution of stalker/murderer Robert Bardo, whose conviction for the murder of actress Rebecca Schaeffer resulted in legislation that offered victims better protection from stalkers as well as increased punishment for the offenders. She was lead prosecutor for the O.J. Simpson murder trial. In May of 1997 her book on the Simpson case, "Without a Doubt," was published and reached #1 on the New York Times, Wall St. Journal, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and Publishers Weekly bestsellers lists. In February 2016, Clark re-released the book with a new foreword. Resources Sign up for the Worth Knowing LinkedIn Newsletter to stay up to date: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/worth-knowing-7236433935503618048/ Follow Bonnie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonnie-habyan/ Go to the Worth Knowing website: https://www.worthknowing.show Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company…

about a year ago 27:36

MP3•Episode home

Ever wondered how every academic subject can contribute to literacy development?
This episode promises to enlighten you, as we chat with Mel King, Assistant Head and Subject Lead for History at St Simon Stock Catholic School, has worked closely with Bedrock champion school, St Anselm's Catholic School (case study here) to develop the use of Bedrock Mapper in her history curriculum.
Mel shares her experience with Mapper, a revolutionary tool that has profoundly improved students' literacy. Inspired by Catherine Mortimer's "Disciplinary Literacy," Mel's story reveals how Mapper’s successful implementation across all subjects significantly enhances students' grasp of essential historical terms.
Mel walks us through the impressive progress in reading ages and the sense of fulfilment students experience when they earn badges and certificates. We really address the nuts and bolts of implementation, and how Bedrock Mapper has supported Mel's learners to become true historians.
This episode is a goldmine of practical advice and insights on implementing change in schools and boosting literacy skills. Look out for the killed/murdered/assassinated discussion!

Chapters

1. 3. Creating a Coherent History Curriculum with Mapper: In Conversation with Melissa King (00:00:00)

2. Bedrock and Literacy in Schools (00:00:16)

3. Accessing Bedrock's Impact on Students (00:17:31)

4. The Transformation of Education (00:24:56)

37 episodes

3. Creating a Coherent History Curriculum with Mapper: In Conversation with Melissa King

Bedrock Talks from Bedrock Learning

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Chapters

1. 3. Creating a Coherent History Curriculum with Mapper: In Conversation with Melissa King (00:00:00)

2. Bedrock and Literacy in Schools (00:00:16)

3. Accessing Bedrock's Impact on Students (00:17:31)

4. The Transformation of Education (00:24:56)

37 episodes

All episodes

Bedrock Talks from Bedrock Learning

1
36. What does literacy utopia look like, and how can we get there? with Jennie Shearer 35:05

16 days ago35:05

35:05

What if every secondary school teacher knew how to teach a child to read? What if we stopped treating literacy as simply spelling and grammar exercises and instead recognised it as the foundation of all learning? In this thought-provoking conversation with English teacher and literacy lead Jennie Shearer, we explore the troubling reality that most teachers have never been taught how to support struggling readers. Jennie shares her frustration with CPD sessions that fail to address this fundamental gap in teacher knowledge. "If students don't understand what we're asking them—not because they don't understand the question but because they don't understand the words—it's irrelevant," she explains, highlighting why the traditional approach to literacy instruction falls short for our most vulnerable learners. Drawing from her extensive experience as both a literacy lead and classroom teacher, Jennie offers practical strategies that any teacher can implement. We discuss the power of grounding new concepts in familiar contexts, exploring etymology and word roots, and reconceptualising literacy as more than just technical accuracy. The conversation moves beyond the mechanics of reading to consider how vocabulary instruction opens doorways to deeper conceptual understanding across all subjects. The discussion takes a powerful turn when we consider the broader implications of literacy beyond school walls. With approximately 15-18% of adults lacking functional literacy, the stakes couldn't be higher. As Jennie poignantly notes, the difference between survival and thriving often comes down to whether students can access information independently. Whether you're an English teacher, science specialist, or school leader, this conversation challenges you to see reading instruction as everyone's responsibility. How might our schools transform if literacy were treated not as a policy mandate but as a fundamental aspect of school culture? Listen now to join this essential conversation about reimagining literacy education for all learners.…

Bedrock Talks from Bedrock Learning

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35. Breaking literacy barriers with Kaley Macis-Riley and Laura May Rowlands 39:42

23 days ago39:42

39:42

Host Andy Sammons welcomes two extraordinary educators who are transforming how schools approach literacy: Kaley Macis-Riley, Senior Lead for Quality of Education, and Laura May Rowlands, Head of English. Both working in schools with high levels of disadvantage, they share candidly about their journey to establish thriving reading cultures in an age dominated by smartphones and digital distractions. Kaley reveals how her school moved away from ineffective silent reading sessions to implementing the FAST reading approach—a structured method where adults model expressive reading of challenging, contextually relevant texts. She explains how they've created the "Samworth Canon," carefully selecting books students wouldn't typically choose themselves but that open new worlds and perspectives. This approach acknowledges that many students aren't naturally reading for pleasure, and instead creates purposeful reading experiences with explicit vocabulary instruction. Laura describes her school's multi-faceted literacy strategy, including their remarkable success with Bedrock Vocabulary, their vibrant library space, and even a book vending machine that serves as a visible celebration of reading achievement. She emphasises how they've made reading "a joyful thing" through careful text selection and explicit connections between vocabulary across different subjects. Both educators passionately advocate for disciplinary literacy—teaching students the specific language patterns of different subjects. From science teachers exploring etymology to history teachers explicitly teaching adverbial phrases, they describe how this approach empowers students to articulate complex ideas with confidence. As Laura notes, "When you are given the knowledge of how to articulate yourself...you're more likely to have an opinion and communicate your perspective." Most powerfully, they speak to the moral imperative behind their work. Kaley emphasises explaining the "why" to students: "The biggest factor for your success outside of socio-economic background is literacy." Their ultimate goal transcends academic outcomes—they're ensuring students can confidently take their place in society, participate in discourse, and avoid manipulation due to limited literacy skills. For anyone concerned about student literacy or seeking to build a more effective reading culture, this conversation offers both practical strategies and profound inspiration. These educators demonstrate that with the right approaches, schools can nurture confident, curious readers ready to engage with complex texts and ideas across all subjects.…

Bedrock Talks from Bedrock Learning

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34. The Role of EdTech within Literacy with Jenny Webb 37:01

4 weeks ago37:01

37:01

What happens when we treat reading as a checkbox rather than an ongoing developmental journey? Jenny Webb, Director of English and Literacy at Carlton Academy Trust, pulls back the curtain on the challenging reality of literacy in UK schools today. Despite government claims about improvements in reading standards, educators are experiencing something quite different in classrooms. Jenny explains how up to 25% of children in less advantaged areas cannot functionally read, yet many schools remain unaware because they're not testing properly. She challenges the artificial barrier we've created between reading and learning, arguing that reading proficiency continues developing throughout teenage years and beyond - long after basic phonics have been mastered. The conversation explores how schools function as evolving ecosystems requiring flexible, adaptable systems rather than one-size-fits-all approaches. Each year brings new cohorts with different needs, yet school leaders often face immense pressure to move quickly to the next initiative instead of maintaining sustained attention on literacy development. Educational technology emerges as a powerful ally when implemented thoughtfully. Jenny shares how adaptive reading assessments can provide nuanced understanding of students' abilities, freeing teachers to focus on the meaningful human connections that make education transformative. "What has to be me and what doesn't have to be me?" she asks, articulating the complementary relationship between technology and teaching. Whether you're an educator, parent, or literacy advocate, this conversation offers a compelling framework for understanding and addressing the complex literacy challenges facing students today. Listen now to discover how combining sound educational principles, responsive technology, and human connection can create more effective literacy development for all students.…

Bedrock Talks from Bedrock Learning

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33. Getting implementation right: Upstream, downstream and root causes with Mark Miller 33:50

8 weeks ago33:50

33:50

How do schools successfully implement change that actually sticks? Mark Miller, Director of Bradford Research School, joins us to break down the recent updates to the Education Endowment Foundation's implementation guidance - revealing why the social dimensions of change might be the most critical factor for success. The conversation dives deep into why schools often rush past the crucial "explore" phase of implementation, jumping to solutions before properly understanding problems. Mark shares practical strategies for "shrinking" nebulous issues like literacy into manageable components using frameworks such as the Reading House and the Simple View of Writing. We explore the distinction between upstream causes and downstream symptoms in education - illustrated through the powerful metaphor of people falling into a river. Do we rescue them downstream or prevent them from falling in upstream? The answer, of course, is both - but knowing where to focus limited resources requires careful analysis. Perhaps most valuable is Mark's insight into the three key implementation behaviours: engage, reflect, and unite. These social processes determine whether change efforts succeed or fail in educational settings. When schools unite around core values, engage diverse stakeholders, and reflect continuously on progress, implementation becomes not just a technical process but a powerful catalyst for school improvement. Whether you're tackling literacy challenges, behaviour systems, or curriculum redesign, this conversation offers practical wisdom for making change that genuinely transforms student outcomes. What problem are you really trying to solve, and are you taking the time to explore it properly? Mark has led Bradford Research School since its inception in 2018. He has worked for Dixons Academies Trust for over a decade, having spent many years at Dixons Kings Academy, teaching English and leading teacher development. Before that, he was a lead practitioner in English, working in Leeds. Mark works with teachers and school leaders regionally and nationally to implement evidence-informed approaches that can improve outcomes for all children and young people, but particularly those from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. You can hear more from Mark via @markmillerteach and Bradford Research School via @BradResearchSch.…

Bedrock Talks from Bedrock Learning

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32. Reading is learning: Breaking down the artificial barrier with Natalie Wexler 35:38

10 weeks ago35:38

35:38

Natalie Wexler joins Andy Sammons to tackle one of education's most persistent challenges: the artificial barrier between reading and learning. This eye-opening conversation dives deep into why traditional approaches to reading comprehension don't work - and what cognitive science tells us actually does . Wexler, author of The Knowledge Gap and co-author of The Writing Revolution , unpacks how our current methods of teaching reading comprehension - as isolated skills, divorced from content - fundamentally misunderstand how comprehension works. She explains why background knowledge functions as "mental Velcro" for new information, and why simply practicing skills like making inferences without content knowledge, fails to develop proficient readers. The discussion takes a fascinating turn when exploring how narrative serves as a powerful vehicle for learning across all subjects. Wexler shares compelling research, showing that students who received content through structured narratives demonstrated significantly better understanding than those who participated in seemingly engaging hands-on activities. "The human brain is hardwired to take in information more easily when it's presented in narrative form," Wexler notes, challenging us to reconsider what effective instruction looks like beyond superficial engagement. Perhaps most valuable for educators are the practical strategies Wexler offers for implementation. From sentence-level writing activities like appositives, to structured retrieval practice, to explicit outlining instruction; she provides concrete techniques that enhance both reading comprehension and content knowledge simultaneously. She emphasises that writing about content powerfully reinforces learning, but requires appropriate scaffolding to avoid cognitive overload for inexperienced writers. Whether you're a literacy specialist, subject teacher, or education leader, this conversation will transform how you think about reading instruction. Listen now to discover why bridging the gap between reading and learning is essential for developing truly proficient readers and thinkers.…

Bedrock Talks from Bedrock Learning

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31. Revolutionising Education: Aaron Leary's Journey from Teacher to Innovator 45:43

12 weeks ago45:43

45:43

Aaron Leary's journey - from a student grappling with language to co-founding Bedrock Learning - illustrates the transformative power of literacy in education. This episode explores personal experiences, teaching philosophies, and future aspirations in the PedTech sphere. Literacy, Aaron reveals, is more than just words; it’s a tool that shapes our thoughts and identities, a concept that lies at the heart of Bedrock’s mission. Tune in as we explore the empowering role of oracy and debate in education. Aaron passionately discusses how these tools have the power to boost confidence and eloquence in students, especially in challenging environments. We also consider the impact of technology on communication skills, sparking a conversation on whether banning smartphones could improve cognitive functions and moods. Such insights are foundational to Bedrock Learning’s innovative approach, addressing the need for engaging and effective educational tools that elevate literacy education to new heights. Finally, we delve into the crucial role of vocabulary instruction within school curricula. Aaron outlines Bedrock’s pioneering efforts in developing a Tier 2 vocabulary curriculum and integrating technology to simplify educational resources. With a vision of preparing for futures shaped by AI and societal changes, this episode is a testament to the transformative power of education and Bedrock's relentless pursuit of innovation.…

Bedrock Talks from Bedrock Learning

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30. Interdisciplinary approaches to modern education with Carl Gombrich 42:54

17 weeks ago42:54

42:54

Carl Gombrich is the Lead Academic at London Interdisciplinary School and oversees curriculum design, teaching, and learning. He was previously a Professorial Teaching Fellow of Interdisciplinary Education at UCL and is a Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. In this episode, prepare to rethink higher education as Carl shares his journey in pioneering a revolutionary academic model. Discover how LIS challenges traditional university structures by focusing on real-world issues like inequality and sustainability, rather than conventional subjects. Carl offers a compelling vision of how students can be equipped with diverse methodologies, empowering them to generate and critique knowledge actively and creatively. Our conversation also navigates the intricate balance between domain-specific expertise and essential 21st-century skills. We confront the ongoing debate between upholding academic rigor and fostering a skillset that's applicable in the modern workforce. Drawing from personal experiences and insights, we propose a balanced educational approach, integrating transferable skills and cross-disciplinary frameworks. The importance of structured secondary education is highlighted, setting the stage for success in both academia and future career paths. Finally, we explore the transformative potential of AI in education and innovative assessment methods that push the boundaries of traditional learning. Hear about the exciting ways students are engaging with AI, not just as passive consumers but as critical thinkers and creators. As we look towards future trends in education reform, Carl and I challenge the outdated remnants of the Victorian education system, advocating for a more integrated curriculum that truly prepares students for the complexities of the modern world. Join us in championing a holistic educational experience that bridges the gap between traditional methods and the skills indispensable in today's job market.…

Bedrock Talks from Bedrock Learning

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29. The future of English with Elizabeth Draper 35:36

25 weeks ago35:36

35:36

Ever wondered how English education is evolving to meet the demands of our rapidly changing world? Join us for a fascinating conversation with Elizabeth Draper, a trailblazer in the realm of English education, as we uncover the profound shifts shaping this field. With over three decades of experience and her current role as deputy chair of the English Association, Elizabeth shares invaluable insights into creating a more inclusive and innovative approach to English studies. From her pioneering efforts to integrate further education into the English Association's mission to her creative projects during lockdown, Elizabeth reveals how ambition and collaboration are key to nurturing creativity and learning across educational sectors. Explore the dynamic landscape of 21st-century English education, where we spotlight the transformative power of oracy in developing articulate and critical thinkers. As technology continues to reshape our lives, Elizabeth emphasizes a balanced approach that encompasses knowledge, skills, creativity, and empathy. Delve into the heartwarming power of storytelling and fiction in fostering empathy and bridging divides, with inspiring examples from organizations like Narrative 4. Throughout our discussion, we celebrate the diverse richness of the English language and the collaborative spirit that drives meaningful educational change. Engage with us in this episode of Bedrock Talks to gain a fresh perspective on the role of English studies in cultivating a more empathetic and connected world.…

Bedrock Talks from Bedrock Learning

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28. Teaching early years speech and language with Steph Hammond 38:10

27 weeks ago38:10

38:10

Bedrock's Andy and Morgan are joined by Stephanie Hammond, who's a Teaching and Learning Consultant offering bespoke training, auditing and support in pre-phonics skills, early reading, phonics and spelling. As a Primary Teacher with over 20 Years of experience, Stephanie has worked alongside, trained and coached numerous EYFS practitioners, TAs, teachers, senior leaders and Headteachers to improve outcomes for all. Stephanie is currently working as a Literacy Specialist for Kingsnorth English Hub, an NPQLL facilitator, School Experience Tutor for the University of Greenwich and an EY Professional Development Programme Trainer (EYPDPT) for Speech and Language UK.…

Bedrock Talks from Bedrock Learning

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27. Implementing a disciplinary literacy strategy with Sophie Prescott 23:40

29 weeks ago23:40

23:40

With 20 years of teaching experience, Sophie Prescott has held various leadership roles across schools in the Midlands. From a background as a science teacher, her current responsibilities now include overseeing Reading and Literacy, supporting disadvantaged students, and contributing to SCITT development. She is passionate about each of these areas, and as a non-English specialist, she is uniquely positioned to advance literacy initiatives and positively impact the life chances of all pupils in her setting. Discover innovative approaches to literacy enhancement with a focus on empowering disadvantaged pupils. Sophie shares her experience of implementing Bedrock at Key Stage 3, where she successfully weaves vocabulary and grammar components into the curriculum. You'll learn about her structured literacy lessons that not only improve reading and oracy skills but also promote self-guided learning beyond the classroom. As a science specialist, Sophie provides a unique perspective on making academic vocabulary accessible and relevant across different subjects, benefiting both students and staff with a comprehensive language learning strategy. Unravel the secret to nurturing disciplinary literacy as we discuss how schools can collaboratively define and build literacy skills vital for subjects like science, history, and geography. The episode highlights the strategic rollout of Bedrock, emphasising engaging middle leaders, students, and parents to create a thriving literacy environment. We explore the pivotal role of technology, such as MAPPA, in supporting the mission to enhance literacy skills. With future plans to foster excitement through rewards and collaborative initiatives, this conversation is a treasure trove of insights for educators seeking to elevate their literacy programs and engage their communities.…

Bedrock Talks from Bedrock Learning

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26. Impactful trust-wide digital transformation with Richard Anderton 30:59

33 weeks ago30:59

30:59

Prepare to transform your approach to education technology with insights from Richard Anderton, the Digital Transformation Lead at the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership (ATLP). Richard joins us to unpack his extensive role, focusing on how ATLP's digital strategies extend beyond simply handing out devices to students. Learn about the critical elements of online safety, the far-reaching implications of artificial intelligence, and how these elements come together to create a more efficient learning environment. In this captivating episode, we explore the delicate balance of integrating traditional and digital methods in the classroom. Richard discusses the strategic use of digital tools for marking and feedback while advocating for traditional handwriting exercises. Discover how ATLP is promoting equity with their Learning Futures initiative, creating a more efficient and inclusive learning environment for all.…

Bedrock Talks from Bedrock Learning

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25. Death by PowerPoint: Improving CPD at Trust Level with Mike Gardner 34:40

36 weeks ago34:40

34:40

How can you transform your teaching practices to be more engaging and effective? In this episode, we sit down with Mike Gardner, the Teaching and Learning Lead for Maritime Academy Trust, to explore his successful strategies for enhancing education across 13 primary schools in southeast London and Kent. From his innovative start-up, The Oracy Shift, which prioritizes communication skills, to his hands-on role in coaching and mentoring teachers from nursery to year six, Mike provides a wealth of insights into tackling diverse educational needs and unifying effective methodologies across different stages of primary education.…

Bedrock Talks from Bedrock Learning

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24. Innovation in Further Education with Holly Barnes-Lomax 34:28

39 weeks ago34:28

34:28

Discover the hidden gems of Further Education (FE) as Holly Barnes-Lomax joins Bedrock Talks. Holly is the Teaching, Learning and Quality Lead at an FE college in Chesterfield. She takes us behind the scenes to explore the variety of courses, from vocational training to adult education, and the specialised support provided to SEND students. With her extensive experience, Holly sheds light on her role, detailing her hands-on approach to coaching teachers, planning curriculums and ensuring quality education through innovative methods like incremental coaching.…

Bedrock Talks from Bedrock Learning

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23. Need for (more than) speed: fluency and oracy with Sarah Davies 36:39

40 weeks ago36:39

36:39

Sarah Davies is the author of Talking about Oracy which focuses on the development of effective communication beyond the parameters of the classroom. She is currently an Assistant Head Teacher at a secondary academy in the north-west of England. Alongside her teaching, she has also written articles for SecEd, The Headteacher and the Teaching Times, as well as presenting at regional and National ResearchEd and ReThinking education conferences. In this episode, Sarah shares her thoughts on oracy, context switching and how learners can be better communicators.…

Bedrock Talks from Bedrock Learning

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22. Going from teacher to school leader with Dani Walley 36:50

42 weeks ago36:50