Nurturing Educators

• Language journeys with Claire

  Send us a textEver thought about how something as fun as the Spice Girls could kickstart a lifelong love for learning a language? Join me, Debbie Ross, as I chat with the amazing Claire. A passionate language teacher whose journey from learning Spanish in high school to fluency after living Argentina is anything but ordinary. We dive into how her love for Spanish not only changed her life but also helped her build real, meaningful connections in a completely new country. Claire shares some incredible stories from her time abroad and her experiences in the classroom, proving that learning a language is about so much more than just grammar and vocabulary.We get into how to make language learning engaging, exciting, and useful. From hands-on activities that keep students hooked to cultural immersion trips, we talk about why real-life practice is so important. Claire breaks down how learning Spanish isn’t just about speaking another language. It sharpens your brain, boosts confidence, and makes you more adaptable. We also chat about how tech and pop culture keep lessons fresh and fun, plus Claire’s top tips for anyone wanting to start their own language-learning adventure. Hosted by Debbie RossFind us on Instagram & Facebook: @nurturingeducators For more information, guest recommendations, and sponsorship opportunities or to chat, please email: [email protected] or visit www.nurturingeducators.co.nz Thanks for listening!

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• Teaching through the years with Carol

  Send us a textReady to be inspired by Carol, an extraordinary educator whose teaching journey began later in life but is rich with insights and passion? Carol, originally from Edinburgh but calls New Zealand home, shares her captivating story of transitioning from balancing role books by hand to navigating the digital transformation of classrooms. With a keen eye on the evolution of teaching, she offers a refreshing take on how old teaching methods often resurface with new names. Her candid advice for new educators is both practical and heartwarming: genuinely understanding young people, embracing mistakes as learning moments, and maintaining kindness with clear boundaries.Tune in to discover Carol’s creative teaching strategies that captivate students and foster a joyful learning environment. From using humour and song to engaging activities like the tennis ball game, she crafts lessons that are as effective as they are fun. Carol reflects on the past's individualised attention as a potential boon for today's educational challenges and stresses the crucial role of parental involvement and supportive relationships. As she reminisces about the shift from blackboards to digital tools, Carol provides valuable insights on balancing the embrace of technology with preserving essential skills like handwriting. Plus, her thoughts on achieving work-life balance as a teacher remind us of the importance of setting boundaries for sustainability and well-being. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation with Carol, a teacher whose wisdom spans decades and continents.Hosted by Debbie RossFind us on Instagram & Facebook: @nurturingeducators For more information, guest recommendations, and sponsorship opportunities or to chat, please email: [email protected] or visit www.nurturingeducators.co.nz Thanks for listening!

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• One school, many hats with Sarah

  Send us a textIn this episode, I chat with Sarah, an inspiring educator who has spent over 15 years balancing her passion for teaching with family life. Sarah’s journey took her from a sports-oriented education to various leadership roles, including acting deputy principal. She shares valuable insights into the significance of working with intermediate-aged students, the impact of extra-curricular activities on skill development, and the importance of embracing new roles to enhance both personal and professional growth.Sarah also discusses how she manages the delicate balance between her career and family, offering practical tips on staying organised and managing stress. Drawing from her own experiences as a parent, she emphasises the importance of empathy and understanding in teaching. Through her story, Sarah inspires educators to embrace opportunities, maintain balance, and strive for connection with their students and themselves. Hosted by Debbie RossFind us on Instagram & Facebook: @nurturingeducators For more information, guest recommendations, and sponsorship opportunities or to chat, please email: [email protected] or visit www.nurturingeducators.co.nz Thanks for listening!

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• Reliever Reflections with Sam

  Send us a textEver wonder what it takes to transition from a bustling career in publishing to the heartwarming yet challenging world of primary education? Meet Sam, my long-time friend and a dedicated primary school teacher & reliever who shares her transformative journey and the pivotal moments that guided her to teaching. Through her experiences, Sam reveals the joys and hurdles of nurturing young minds and the importance of creating an inclusive classroom environment. Together, we discuss the often-overlooked balance between professional dedication and personal well-being, sharing practical insights into self-care and managing the relentless demands of teaching.Join us as we uncover the rewarding and challenging experiences of teaching primary school students, from heartwarming school camps to the long-lasting impact on young lives. Discover how Sam found a healthier work-life balance through relief teaching, which brought about flexibility and personal fulfilment. She offers advice on the adaptability and creativity needed for success in this role, while highlighting the joy of immersing oneself in diverse school cultures. Whether you're an educator seeking inspiration or contemplating a shift to relief teaching, this episode promises a treasure trove of insights and encouragement for finding joy in the teaching journey.Hosted by Debbie RossFind us on Instagram & Facebook: @nurturingeducators For more information, guest recommendations, and sponsorship opportunities or to chat, please email: [email protected] or visit www.nurturingeducators.co.nz Thanks for listening!

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• The Energy Reset with Mark

  Send us a textCricket aficionado turned educator, Mark Orchard, takes centre stage in our latest episode, sharing his remarkable transition from the pitch to the classroom. Discover how Mark channels the discipline and fervour of his sports career into teaching at a Boys College, while also prioritising self-care. Mark's refreshing perspective on economic living and the art of recharging during school holidays is both inspiring and practical. His passion for coaching football and tennis not only fuels his physical health but also invigorates his mental well-being, a testament to the power of sport in fostering a positive mindset.Join us as we uncover the secrets to a balanced lifestyle with Mark's insights on meal preparation, exercise, and efficient time management. From the joy of listening to economics podcasts to embracing minimal meditation practices, Mark offers a wealth of strategies for maintaining well-being amid the rigours of teaching. We delve into the importance of focusing on fewer tasks to achieve greater impact, ensuring a sustainable work-life balance. This conversation is packed with valuable lessons for educators seeking to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from Mark's holistic approach to teaching and life.Hosted by Debbie RossFind us on Instagram & Facebook: @nurturingeducators For more information, guest recommendations, and sponsorship opportunities or to chat, please email: [email protected] or visit www.nurturingeducators.co.nz Thanks for listening!

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