The Mindfulness for Learning Podcast

Mindfulness for learning

Expert insights and real conversations on mindful learning, development and wellbeing. Hosted by Sophie Smith-Tong, founder of Mindfulness for Learning, this podcast brings together educators, parents, carers, and others passionate about supporting children and families. Through diverse voices and lived experiences, we explore mental health, mindfulness, and what it truly means to care, in and beyond the classroom.

  1. 44. Unauthorised Absence: Can a Short Film Change the Law? Jo Clayton and Natalie Lauren

    MAR 6

    44. Unauthorised Absence: Can a Short Film Change the Law? Jo Clayton and Natalie Lauren

    In this episode, the podcast welcomes Jo Clayton and Natalie Lauren, the writer and producer behind the upcoming short film Unauthorised Absence. "From lived experience to national action, Jo’s script inspires empathy & change for SEND children & families harmed by education policy" In their first podcast interview, they discuss how the project first came to life, what initially drew them to the story, and why it felt like an important and urgent narrative to tell. The conversation explores the journey of developing the film from its earliest idea to where it is now, including the creative breakthroughs along the way, the realities of developing and funding an independent short film, and the responsibility of representing sensitive themes with care. Jo and Natalie also reflect on why the story feels particularly timely in light of the recent SEND reform white paper, and the emotional and social impact they hope the film will have. They share what they’ve learned about themselves through the process, who they most hope the film will reach, and what they hope the lasting legacy of Unauthorised Absence might be. There’s also a fun moment in the episode where the team put out a call for ideas for the films title track - so have a listen and feel free to send your suggestions in the comments! Find out more about Unauthorised Absence here - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/natalielauren/unauthorised-absence https://www.instagram.com/unauthorisedabsencefilm/ https://www.facebook.com/unauthorisedabsencefilm Find out more about Mindfulness for learning here - https://www.mindfulnessforlearning.com/ Buy Sophie Smith-Tong's book, Teacher Autonomy Where Has It Gone and Why We Need It Back published by Routledge here - https://amzn.eu/d/0ggXV3X9 Learn more about the themes of the book here - https://teacherautonomy.com/ This episode was edited by Ben Corbett

    1h 17m
  2. 43. The School Mental Health Toolkit - Andrew Cowley

    FEB 17

    43. The School Mental Health Toolkit - Andrew Cowley

    In this episode, Sophie is joined by Andrew Cowley for a timely and insightful discussion on schools, mobile phones, and mental health. They explore the ongoing debate around mobile phone use in schools, including recent updates from the Education Secretary and Ofsted’s increasing focus on how schools manage phone policies. The conversation looks at what these expectations mean in practice, what is realistically achievable, and the key challenges schools are facing. The episode also dives into the world of parent WhatsApp groups, examining the benefits, frustrations, and unexpected value they bring to school communities. Andrew shares insights from his third book, The School Mental Health Toolkit, discussing how it has evolved and introducing the core THINK framework that underpins it. They unpack how schools can use this model in practical, meaningful ways to support wellbeing, rather than as a superficial tick-box exercise. The episode concludes with a broader reflection on what schools are getting right, what they are still learning, and why mental health and wellbeing in education is a complex, nuanced issue that cannot be reduced to simple answers. It’s a thoughtful and honest exploration of where education is now, and where it needs to go next. Find Andrew on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-cowley-8796a5133/ Buy Andrew's books here Find out more about us at Mindfulness for learning here and buy Sophie's book 'Teacher Autonomy' here

    1h 5m
  3. 42. Growing Strong Happy Families - Lulu Luckock

    JAN 13

    42. Growing Strong Happy Families - Lulu Luckock

    Sophie is joined by someone whose work has shaped the emotional landscape of countless children, families, and educators. Lulu Luckock is an education advisor and trainer specialising in Social and Emotional Learning in primary schools, and a counsellor supporting families, individuals, couples, parents, adolescents, and children. With over 35 years of experience in primary education - and as a mother of three adult children - she brings a rare blend of personal insight, deep professional knowledge, and heartfelt compassion to everything she does. Eleven years ago, Lulu stepped beyond the classroom to focus fully on the emotional wellbeing of young people and their families. Her commitment to centring emotional health in education led her to train with the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence in The RULER Approach, grounded in the belief that “Emotions drive learning, decision making, creativity, relationships, and health.” Now, through a powerful combination of education and counselling, she works to strengthen mental health, build emotional resilience, and support the adults and children who need it most. Find out more about Lulu - lululuckock.com Find out more about Mindfulness for learning - https://www.mindfulnessforlearning.com/ This episode was edited by Ben Corbett.

    54 min
  4. 41. Think Equal, Empowering Change Through Education - Leslee Udwin

    11/03/2025

    41. Think Equal, Empowering Change Through Education - Leslee Udwin

    In this episode, Leslee shares with Sophie, her frustrations with slow-moving education reform, the lack of focus on children’s holistic and emotional development, and the undervaluing of the early years profession. They also explore her transformative Think Equal programme — a global initiative launched in 2016 that’s already reaching over 582,000 children across the world, with an ambitious mission to bring social and emotional learning to every corner of the planet. This episode was edited by Ben Corbett. Learn more about Think Equal and Leslee Udwin https://thinkequal.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesleeudwin/ Learn more about Mindfulness for learning and Sophie Smith-Tong https://www.mindfulnessforlearning.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-smith-tong-7b3891207/ Buy Sophie's debut book published by Routledge Teacher Autonomy. Where Has It Gone And Why We Need It Back https://www.mindfulnessforlearning.com/teacherautonomybook

    1 hr
  5. AUTONOMY MINI-SERIES EPISODE 5/5. Greg Bottrill - Illuminating the Wonder Child

    07/01/2025

    AUTONOMY MINI-SERIES EPISODE 5/5. Greg Bottrill - Illuminating the Wonder Child

    The final episode of our Autonomy Mini-Series! Sophie is joined by the incredible Greg Bottrill. This is a conversation that goes beyond the usual — they dive straight into the heart of educational change. From questioning things like pen licenses and rigid seating rules to exploring the power of play, true autonomy, and something even more profound - reconnecting with the educator’s inner child. Because finding true autonomy in teaching often begins with rediscovering that sense of wonder we once had, peeling back the layers of expectation, and letting our authentic selves guide our practice. And here’s something special - Greg has written the foreword for Sophie's upcoming book, Teacher Autonomy. His insights here are nothing short of transformative, and this episode might just change the way you see education. Discover Greg - https://www.canigoandplaynow.com/ Learn more about Mindfulness for learning - Mindfulnessforlearning.com This episode was edited by Ben Corbett.

    59 min
  6. AUTONOMY MINI-SERIES EPISODE 4/5. Tina Farr - Children and Autonomy

    06/13/2025

    AUTONOMY MINI-SERIES EPISODE 4/5. Tina Farr - Children and Autonomy

    In this episode, Sophie is diving into child autonomy with an approach that Headteacher, Tina Farr says is not "progressive or maverick". We’re talking practical changes that put children at the heart of learning - like flexible seating options, OPAL play, and true curriculum freedom. Sophie and Tina explore how these ideas work in school, the challenges of balancing them with accountability, and why letting go of total control can make these changes actually doable. Get ready for an exciting, idea-packed conversation that could transform your practice. Connect with Tina Farr and St Ebbes. Learn more about Mindfulness for learning - Mindfulnessforlearning.com This episode was edited by Ben Corbett.

    59 min
  7. 40. The Story So Far: Laura Henry-Allain

    06/04/2025

    40. The Story So Far: Laura Henry-Allain

    In this episode, Sophie is joined by Laura Henry-Allain MBE - an international award-winning early education specialist, writer, and children's media creator. Laura is the brilliant mind behind the much-loved JoJo and Gran Gran on CBeebies, where she works as creator and associate producer. She’s also the Vice-President of The British Association for Early Childhood Education and works as a consultant across major brands in children’s media, television, and publishing - championing inclusion, racial equality, and diversity. In this conversation, Laura shares her inspiring journey from a school-leaver with no qualifications to a powerful voice in education and media. We dive into the realities of navigating the current education system, the vital importance of play, especially outdoor play, and her insights into the ongoing SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) crisis. Plus, she gives us a glimpse into her exciting upcoming projects. Laura asked us to share that she experiences verbal dyslexia, which may shape how she communicates in parts of the conversation. We're grateful for her openness and insight.

    58 min
  8. AUTONOMY MINI-SERIES EPISODE 3/5. Jimi Famurewa - Autonomy and Expectations: Navigating Pressure, Bias, and Belonging

    04/17/2025

    AUTONOMY MINI-SERIES EPISODE 3/5. Jimi Famurewa - Autonomy and Expectations: Navigating Pressure, Bias, and Belonging

    In this episode, Sophie is joined by the talented restaurant critic, writer, and Good Food Guide columnist, Jimi Famurewa. Jimi and Sophie share a unique connection, having both attended the same secondary school in the suburbs, and together they dive into their experiences. The conversation delves into a powerful topic from Jimi's book Settlers, where he addresses the pressures Black African families face to perform academically and how systemic biases and structural barriers can impact a child's sense of autonomy. Additionally, Jimi introduces his new book Picky , a deep exploration of identity and eating. Discover Jimi Famurewa - https://www.jimifamurewa.com/ Find Jimi on Instagram - instagram.com/jimfamished Find our more about us at Mindfulness for learning - https://www.mindfulnessforlearning.com/ This episode was edited by Ben Corbett.

    1h 1m
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About

Expert insights and real conversations on mindful learning, development and wellbeing. Hosted by Sophie Smith-Tong, founder of Mindfulness for Learning, this podcast brings together educators, parents, carers, and others passionate about supporting children and families. Through diverse voices and lived experiences, we explore mental health, mindfulness, and what it truly means to care, in and beyond the classroom.

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