Adoption Focus - Education in Focus

Adoption Focus
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Education in Focus is our adoption podcast series looking at all aspects of schools and education through the lens of adoption.  In each episode, host Leigh is joined by our education experts Lisa and Jason to provide advice for parents supporting adoptees as they go through their school years. They talk to a range of adopters and professionals on subjects such as homework, exams, special educational needs, promoting good school and parent relationships, end of year transitions, and choosing a school.

  1. Education in Focus - Jo's Journey into Home Educating 

    09/02/2025

    Education in Focus - Jo's Journey into Home Educating 

    In this episode, we chat with Jo, an adopter and home educator, about the unexpected journey she and her partner took to support their son's well-being.   After witnessing the impact mainstream school had on their child, Jo made the courageous decision to step away from the traditional system and embrace home education. She shares their honest, heartfelt story from the challenges they faced early on to the research that guided their decision.   Jo offers valuable insights, practical tips on supporting social development, and a moving reminder to always listen to your child. Whether you're considering home ed or simply curious, this episode is a must-listen.

    1h 19m
  2. Education in Focus - Artificial Intelligence

    07/24/2025

    Education in Focus - Artificial Intelligence

    In this episode, we explore the growing presence of Artificial Intelligence in our everyday lives especially in classrooms and at home.  Joined by Lisa and Jason, we discuss how AI can support children's learning, how parents can use it safely, and how to help kids think critically about what they see online.  Packed with practical advice and clear insights, this episode is a must-listen for any parent navigating the digital world.

    46 min
  3. Education in Focus - Being a Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities Coordinator (SENDCO) and writing Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP)

    06/30/2025

    Education in Focus - Being a Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities Coordinator (SENDCO) and writing Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP)

    We’re thrilled to be joined in this episode by one of our amazing adopters, Raun. With over 15 years of experience as a SENDCO and senior schoolteacher, Raun brings a wealth of insight from both an educational and personal perspective.  After stepping away from teaching to adopt, Raun returned to work in education this time supporting families by writing EHCPs and working with a local authority. Raun talks about what the role of a SENDCO really involves, how families can seek help from schools, what reasonable adjustments look like in practice, and the ins and outs of Education, Health and Care Plans.  You’ll also hear practical tips for navigating the EHCP process and working collaboratively with your child’s school.

    48 min
  4. Education in Focus - School Avoidance

    04/08/2025

    Education in Focus - School Avoidance

    In this episode, Leigh is joined by Lisa and Jason, to talk about school avoidance, why it happens and what parents and schools can do to support children. We hope this episode helps anyone listening to think a bit deeper about school avoidance and maybe generated some ideas of how parents or schools could help young people. If you have any questions or you think you could do with some support then please don’t hesitate to contact us at education@adoption-focus.org.uk

    32 min
  5. Education in Focus - Reduced Timetables

    10/30/2024

    Education in Focus - Reduced Timetables

    In our latest episode Leigh, Lisa and Jason are discussing reduced timetables. These are used for several reasons, health needs, mental health needs and sometimes due to behaviour. Leigh, Lisa and Jason talk about what they are, when should they or shouldn't they been used and how you can help manage things with school.  We'd love to hear what you thought about this episode or if you have a topic, you'd like us to explore, you can get in touch here: Email our podcast team on education@adoption-focus.org.uk.

    31 min
  6. Education in Focus - Improving Children’s Self-esteem and Dealing with Shame

    10/01/2024

    Education in Focus - Improving Children’s Self-esteem and Dealing with Shame

    Leigh, Lisa and Jason discuss how you can improve your child's self-esteem and find alternative ways to encourage them not to feel shame.    They talk about the types of behaviours shame can manifest into, how shame can make your child feel and react and how best to advocate for your child at school to help combat feelings of shame.  We'd love to hear what you thought about this episode or if you have a topic you'd like us to explore you can get in touch here: education@adoption-focus.org.uk.

    1 hr
  7. Education in Focus - Unstructured Break Times

    09/02/2024

    Education in Focus - Unstructured Break Times

    In the latest edition of our podcast Education in Focus, Leigh, Lisa and Jason discuss unstructured break time in school. The unpredictable nature of play times and break times can often be stressful for some children. In this episode, the team talk about what you as parents can ask your school to do to help. The idea for the topic for this episode came from one of our listeners. If you have any suggestions or requests for specific topics we'd love to hear from you. Email our podcast team education@adoption-focus.org.uk.

    47 min
  8. Education in Focus - Pupil Premium Plus

    07/29/2024

    Education in Focus - Pupil Premium Plus

    During this episode Leigh, Lisa and Jason talk about Pupil Premium Plus, what it is, what it's for and how you can apply for it. If you've adopted with Adoption Focus and would like to speak about your experiences, please email us at podcast@adoption-focus.org.uk.   If you have any requests for podcast topics you’d like us to cover, we'd love to get those too.

    32 min
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About

Education in Focus is our adoption podcast series looking at all aspects of schools and education through the lens of adoption.  In each episode, host Leigh is joined by our education experts Lisa and Jason to provide advice for parents supporting adoptees as they go through their school years. They talk to a range of adopters and professionals on subjects such as homework, exams, special educational needs, promoting good school and parent relationships, end of year transitions, and choosing a school.

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