Meeting the Needs

Karen-Tui Boyes & Jenny Tebbutt
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  • EDUCATION

Meeting the Needs of At-Risk Learners through Structured LiteracyThis podcast is all about empowering teachers with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to effectively support at-risk students through structured literacy. Host Karen-Tui Boyes is joined by our expert, Jenny Tebbutt, who brings a wealth of experience in literacy education. Together, they explore how to implement structured literacy in your classroom, improve student outcomes, and create lasting change.

Episodes

  1. 06/23/2025

    Nail your Structured Literacy Approach Teaching through Communities of Practice

    In this episode, we check out the power of Communities of Practice and how they can transform your structured literacy approach teaching. Jenny shares the benefits of joining these collaborative sessions — from shared ideas and reflective practice to evidence-based strategies and stronger student outcomes. Discover how each session is intentionally designed to build confidence, capacity, and clarity across the key elements of structured literacy, including assessment, phonemic awareness, fluency, writing, and differentiation.

    12 min

  2. 06/06/2025

    The Game Changer: Why Fluency and Automaticity Matter

    Dive into the game-changing role of fluency, automaticity, and processing delays in learning success. Jenny shares powerful insights from her recent work with teachers, exploring how oral language, handwriting, and reading fluency are foundational to comprehension and achievement. Discover how structured literacy, when combined with targeted assessment and explicit teaching, can unlock student potential—especially for those with learning difficulties.

    13 min

  3. 05/26/2025

    Why Cognitive Load Theory Deserves a Front Row in Education

    In this thought-provoking episode, Karen Tui Boyes and Jenny Tebbutt delve into Cognitive Load Theory — not just as a scientific concept, but as a crucial tool for everyday classroom planning. They explore why understanding how students process information is essential, how teachers can use cognitive load strategies across subjects, and the fact that many educators never received in-depth training on this vital topic.  You’ll learn about the three types of cognitive load, how classroom environments and teaching materials impact memory, and the seven key strategies that help put the theory into practice. With stories, practical tips, and reflections on structured literacy, this episode is a must-listen for educators, leaders, and parents wanting better outcomes for all learners.  🔗 Plus: We’ve linked helpful resources on cognitive load in practice to support your teaching journey.  https://www.spectrumeducation.com/meeting-the-needs-sl-podcast/

    26 min

  4. 05/01/2025

    Explicit Teaching: The Secret Sauce for Learning Success

    Are you really teaching explicitly—or just scratching the surface? In this episode, Karen and Jenny unpack what explicit instruction looks like in real classrooms, why it's non-negotiable for beginner learners, and how even experienced teachers often miss key elements.  They explore the “what” (phonemic awareness, phonics, morphology, comprehension, and more) and the “how” (gradual release, managing cognitive load) that turn good teaching into great teaching.  Plus, remember to watch the masterclass video from Anita Archer on vocabulary instruction—guaranteed to change how you teach.  🎥 Watch the video here → www.spectrumeducation.com/meeting-the-needs-sl-podcast

    18 min

  5. 04/09/2025

    Is Differentiation - Grouping, Planning & Targeted Teaching?

    Differentiation gets talked about a lot—but what does it actually mean in a real classroom with diverse learners? In this episode, Jenny dives deep into how we can group, plan, and teach with purpose to meet every student where they are—using assessment as the foundation. Discover practical insights into learner waves, structured literacy, and how we can better support both our gifted learners and those who need intensive interventions. A must-listen for every teacher navigating the complexity of today's classrooms.

    16 min

  6. 03/25/2025

    Phonological Awareness: The Missing Piece in Literacy

    Did you know that 99% of children with learning difficulties have a phonological weakness? In this episode, Karen and Jenny look into what phonological awareness really is, why it matters so much, and how structured literacy addresses this foundational skill. They also explore how early intervention—even before school—can set children up for literacy success, and highlight the powerful (and often overlooked) HPP junior language programme. A must-listen for anyone passionate about helping at-risk learners thrive.

    21 min

  7. 03/18/2025

    Hearing the Difference - Understanding Auditory Processing

    In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of auditory processing—what it is, how it affects learning, and why some students struggle to "hear the difference." Jenny unpacks the five key types of auditory processing difficulties, from auditory discrimination to figure-ground challenges, and explains how Structured Literacy provides powerful strategies to support these learners.  You'll also hear practical examples, including the Weird Word Game, and discover simple yet effective techniques teachers (and even parents!) can use to help children develop strong auditory processing skills. Plus, a little bonus: some unexpected marital advice on listening!  Join us for this insightful and engaging conversation, packed with real-life strategies to support struggling learners.

    26 min

  8. 03/14/2025

    Addressing Underpinning Weaknesses

    Learn how Structured Literacy helps address key underpinning weaknesses, including phonological challenges, working memory, and processing speed. Jenny shares practical strategies that empower teachers to support at-risk learners, ensuring stronger reading, writing, and overall learning success. Plus see the visual demo of some strategies at https://www.spectrumeducation.com/meeting-the-needs-sl-podcast/

    30 min

  9. 03/10/2025

    The Power of a Multimodal Approach

    In this episode, we explore the importance of a multimodal approach in structured literacy, emphasising that learning challenges go beyond academics. Jenny shares insights on how integrating social, emotional, and behavioural support alongside structured literacy can significantly impact student success. By addressing cognitive load, executive functioning, and self-esteem, educators can create a holistic learning environment that better supports at-risk and neurodiverse students.

    28 min
  10. Unlocking Learning for At-Risk Students

    02/25/2025

    Unlocking Learning for At-Risk Students

    Unlock the power of Structured Literacy to better support at-risk learners in your classroom! In this episode, we explore why Structured Literacy is not a programme, rather a proven, evidence-based approach that empowers teachers with the tools to assess, differentiate, and accelerate student learning. Join host Karen Tui Boyes and expert Jenny Tebbutt as they discuss the essential strategies to improve literacy outcomes, reduce teacher workload, and ensure every student gets the support they need to thrive.

    17 min
  • 10 Episodes

About

Meeting the Needs of At-Risk Learners through Structured LiteracyThis podcast is all about empowering teachers with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to effectively support at-risk students through structured literacy. Host Karen-Tui Boyes is joined by our expert, Jenny Tebbutt, who brings a wealth of experience in literacy education. Together, they explore how to implement structured literacy in your classroom, improve student outcomes, and create lasting change.

Information

  • Creator
    Karen-Tui Boyes & Jenny Tebbutt
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Meeting the Needs
  • Show Website
    Meeting the Needs