Helping Teachers Thrive

Tem Ezimokhai

Empowering Educators: Insights, Tips, and Strategies for Every Stage of Your Teaching Career with episodes now CPD accredited. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting your teaching journey, this resource is for you!  Join me as I dive into the diverse world of teaching, offering valuable insights, practical tips, and expert advice on effective teaching strategies to help you excel in your Teaching Career.  Since beginning my Teaching Career in 2009, I have been dedicated to empowering students to reach their full potential. I believe in the transformative power of education, not only to enhance academic success but also to build character and resilience. Through my experience mentoring teachers, I aim to continue shaping young minds while nurturing the growth of those who guide them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    Starting the New Term Well: Gentle Transitions and Practical Self-Care

    DESCRIPTION: In this episode of Helping Teachers Thrive, Tem focuses on how teachers can ease back into a new term without burnout, pressure, or unrealistic expectations. This episode explores why teachers often feel flat or low in confidence during the first week back, why “hitting the ground running” isn’t necessary, and how small, practical self-care habits can protect teacher well-being at the start of term. Tem shares realistic strategies for managing energy levels, setting boundaries, rebuilding confidence, and maintaining clarity without overwhelming yourself. If you’re a teacher looking for gentle guidance for the first week back, practical well-being strategies, and reassurance that progress matters more than perfection, this episode will help you start the term feeling calmer, steadier, and more supported. If you would like bespoke support, book a discovery call today: https://calendly.com/tem-helpingteachersthrive/discovery-call  KEY TAKEAWAYS: Go to The Helping Teachers Thrive Hub to unlock exclusive content, strengthen your skills and access resources to help level up and thrive in your teaching profession for the price of a coffee!Feeling flat or slow in the first week back at school is normal for teachers after a break.Teachers do not need to hit the ground running. Easing back into routines supports long-term well-being.Small, practical self-care habits can protect teacher energy levels at the start of term.A rested, grounded teacher is more effective than a burnt-out one.BEST MOMENTS: “Struggling a little at first doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re human.” “You don’t need to make big changes.....small practical actions can make a huge difference in your first week.” “Confidence grows over time, and it comes from small wins and routines that work for you.” “Perfection isn’t the goal, your energy isn’t never-ending.” “A rested and grounded teacher is way more effective than a burnt-out one.” VALUABLE RESOURCES: https://patreon.com/thehelpingteachersthrivehub?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink ABOUT THE HOST: Since embarking on her teaching journey in 2009, Tem has been on a mission to empower students to reach their fullest potential. Specialising as a Secondary Physical Education Teacher, Tem also has experience in Special Educational Needs (SEN) as a class teacher in an SEN provision. With an unwavering commitment to helping students become the best versions of themselves, Tem believes in the power of education to shape not just academic prowess, but character and resilience. Having mentored numerous teachers throughout her career, she is not only shaping young minds but also nurturing the growth of those who guide them. ABOUT THE SHOW: The podcast for teachers of many years, trainee teachers or Early Career Teachers (ECTs). Join Tem as she delves into the diverse world of teaching, offering valuable insights, tips, and advice on a variety of teaching strategies to help teachers thrive as classroom practitioners.  CONNECT & CONTACT:  Email: tem@helpingteachersthrive.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/temsteachingtips Instagram: instagram.com/temsteachingtips LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tem-ezimokhai-23306a263 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    5 min
  2. 24/12/2025

    Well-being at Christmas: Rest Without the Guilt

    DESCRIPTION: In this episode of Helping Teachers Thrive, Tem speaks honestly about teacher well-being at Christmas, the guilt that often follows the end of term, and why rest is not something teachers need to earn. This episode is for teachers who are struggling to switch off, feeling pressure to plan, mark, or “get ahead”, and wondering why they still feel drained after such a long and demanding autumn term. Tem explores why teacher exhaustion is so common, how prolonged stress affects the nervous system, and what well-being can realistically look like during the Christmas break. This episode will help you pause, reset, and approach January feeling calmer, more grounded, and ready to thrive without guilt. If you would like bespoke support, book a discovery call today: https://calendly.com/tem-helpingteachersthrive/discovery-call  KEY TAKEAWAYS: Go to The Helping Teachers Thrive Hub  to unlock exclusive content, strengthen your skills and access resources to help level up and thrive in your teaching profession for the price of a coffee!Teacher exhaustion at Christmas is normal after a long and demanding autumn term.Rest is not a reward, teachers do not need to earn their recovery time.Teacher well-being does not need to be productive or impressive to be effective.Difficulty switching off is often a sign of prolonged stress, not poor self-care.Returning in January as a rested teacher matters more than returning as a “better” one.BEST MOMENTS: “You do not need to earn your rest. Rest is not a reward for finishing everything on our to-do list.” “Sometimes well-being is just about doing very little and letting that be enough.” “If you’re finding it hard to switch off, that doesn’t mean you’re failing...it means your nervous system has been under pressure for a long time.” “You don’t need to go back as a better teacher, you just need to go back as a rested one.” “Consistency is way more important than intensity, and kindness to yourself will take you further than pressure ever will.” VALUABLE RESOURCES: https://patreon.com/thehelpingteachersthrivehub?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink ABOUT THE HOST: Since embarking on her teaching journey in 2009, Tem has been on a mission to empower students to reach their fullest potential. Specialising as a Secondary Physical Education Teacher, Tem also has experience in Special Educational Needs (SEN) as a class teacher in an SEN provision. With an unwavering commitment to helping students become the best versions of themselves, Tem believes in the power of education to shape not just academic prowess, but character and resilience. Having mentored numerous teachers throughout her career, she is not only shaping young minds but also nurturing the growth of those who guide them. ABOUT THE SHOW: The podcast for teachers of many years, trainee teachers or Early Career Teachers (ECTs). Join Tem as she delves into the diverse world of teaching, offering valuable insights, tips, and advice on a variety of teaching strategies to help teachers thrive as classroom practitioners.  CONNECT & CONTACT:  Email: tem@helpingteachersthrive.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/temsteachingtips Instagram: instagram.com/temsteachingtips LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tem-ezimokhai-23306a263 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    5 min
  3. 03/12/2025

    The Burnout That Changed Everything: Rowena’s Story and the Strategies That Brought Her Back

    DESCRIPTION: In this powerful episode of Helping Teachers Thrive, former teacher, SENCO and Deputy Head turned burnout coach Rowena Hicks shares her journey through burnout and the lessons she now teaches thousands of educators. We explore the hidden habits and school cultures that push teachers towards exhaustion, and the practical mindset shifts that help you reclaim your wellbeing. Rowena offers simple, research-informed strategies that boost energy, reduce overwhelm and rebuild joy in teaching. This is an essential listen for any teacher who wants to prevent burnout and thrive both professionally and personally. If you would like bespoke support, book a discovery call today: https://calendly.com/tem-helpingteachersthrive/discovery-call  KEY TAKEAWAYS: Recognising the early signs of teacher burnout is crucial, as there are often overlooked warning signals.Perfectionism and people-pleasing can trap teachers in cycles of overwork.Spotting the “silent stresses” in colleagues and yourself to stop burnout from escalating.Reassess your to-do list regularly to avoid the risk of burn out.BEST MOMENTS: “I’m a recovering workaholic, recovering people-pleaser… and those traits in many of us can lead to burnout.” “You don’t need to constantly prove yourself, as you are enough.” “We only remember the negative… we need to dare to celebrate the positives.” “If our teachers are doing well, our students achieve 20% better” “If you’re not allowed to use your most valued strengths, you will shrink into a place where you can’t flow.” VALUABLE RESOURCES: https://patreon.com/thehelpingteachersthrivehub?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink www.rowenahicks.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/rowenaphicks/ https://www.instagram.com/rowenaphicks?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/self-care-vs-numbing-how-to-truly-recharge-as-a-teacher/id1681843058?i=1000699110174 ABOUT THE HOST: Since embarking on her teaching journey in 2009, Tem has been on a mission to empower students to reach their fullest potential. Specialising as a Secondary Physical Education Teacher, Tem also has experience in Special Educational Needs (SEN) as a class teacher in an SEN provision. With an unwavering commitment to helping students become the best versions of themselves, Tem believes in the power of education to shape not just academic prowess, but character and resilience. Having mentored numerous teachers throughout her career, she is not only shaping young minds but also nurturing the growth of those who guide them. ABOUT THE SHOW: The podcast for teachers of many years, trainee teachers or Early Career Teachers (ECTs). Join Tem as she delves into the diverse world of teaching, offering valuable insights, tips, and advice on a variety of teaching strategies to help teachers thrive as classroom practitioners.  CONNECT & CONTACT:  Email: tem@helpingteachersthrive.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/temsteachingtips Instagram: instagram.com/temsteachingtips LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tem-ezimokhai-23306a263 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    43 min
  4. 26/11/2025

    Supporting Neurodiverse Children: Autism & ADHD Insights with Cliff and Eva

    DESCRIPTION: In this episode, Tem chats with Cliff and Eva from the Parenting Autism & ADHD podcast about the challenges neurodiverse children face in mainstream schools and the transformative impact of specialist education. Eva shares her personal experiences of being misunderstood in a traditional classroom and the ways point systems and social expectations often failed to support her and we discuss practical strategies parents and teachers can use to create supportive learning environments for children with autism and ADHD. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Sensory overwhelm, social anxiety, and unmet learning needs that neurodiverse children have to navigate dailyWays educators can adapt classrooms and teaching strategies to better support neurodiverse learners.Focusing on a child’s strengths, rather than only their challenges, can improve learning outcomes and emotional well-being.BEST MOMENTS: "The child's dropped and suddenly they're not engaging and they're shut down." "It's the little things, the little details that really make a difference for children like Eva" "I use it to draw and to regulate my emotions" "I can draw and listen at the same time." VALUABLE RESOURCES: The Helping Teachers Thrive Hub https://www.instagram.com/cliff_kilmister08/ Parenting Autism and ADHD podcast Eva's presentation on Autism for teachers EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT: Helping Every Child Thrive: Essential Strategies for Teachers and Parents Supporting Children with ADHD and Autism ABOUT THE HOST: Since embarking on her teaching journey in 2009, Tem has been on a mission to empower students to reach their fullest potential. Specialising as a Secondary Physical Education Teacher, Tem also has experience in Special Educational Needs (SEN) as a class teacher in an SEN provision. With an unwavering commitment to helping students become the best versions of themselves, Tem believes in the power of education to shape not just academic prowess, but character and resilience. Having mentored numerous teachers throughout her career, she is not only shaping young minds but also nurturing the growth of those who guide them. ABOUT THE SHOW: The podcast for teachers of many years, trainee teachers or Early Career Teachers (ECTs). Join Tem as she delves into the diverse world of teaching, offering valuable insights, tips, and advice on a variety of teaching strategies to help teachers thrive as classroom practitioners.  CONNECT & CONTACT:  Email: tem@helpingteachersthrive.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/temsteachingtips Instagram: instagram.com/temsteachingtips LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tem-ezimokhai-23306a263 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    42 min
  5. 18/11/2025

    Primitive Reflexes Decoded: Transform Learning in Mainstream and SEND Classrooms

    DESCRIPTION: In this episode, Lara Barnes, from The Brain Development Podcast, shares her personal journey with her son Archie, highlighting the importance of understanding brain development and foundational reflexes in children. She discusses the impact of sensory circuits in educational settings and offers practical strategies for teachers to support students struggling with learning and emotional regulation. If you would like bespoke support, book a discovery call today: https://calendly.com/tem-helpingteachersthrive/discovery-call  KEY TAKEAWAYS: Understanding primitive reflexes is crucial for child development.Sensory circuits can significantly improve classroom behaviour.Children with retained reflexes may struggle with social interactions.Collaboration between parents and teachers is key to success.BEST MOMENTS: "It's not their fault." "Certain teachers have told me that he's not right, that he's not able to concentrate and focus, he's not able to learn." "Poor speech, and literally one or two or three words, he couldn't string sentences together." VALUABLE RESOURCES: Go to The Helping Teachers Thrive Hub to unlock exclusive content The Brain Development Podcast www.braindevelopment.co.uk Lara's Instagram: braindevelopmentuk EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT: How to Help Students (and Yourself) Overcome Limiting Beliefs in the Classroom ABOUT THE HOST: Since embarking on her teaching journey in 2009, Tem has been on a mission to empower students to reach their fullest potential. Specialising as a Secondary Physical Education Teacher, Tem also has experience in Special Educational Needs (SEN) as a class teacher in an SEN provision. With an unwavering commitment to helping students become the best versions of themselves, Tem believes in the power of education to shape not just academic prowess, but character and resilience. Having mentored numerous teachers throughout her career, she is not only shaping young minds but also nurturing the growth of those who guide them. ABOUT THE SHOW: The podcast for teachers of many years, trainee teachers or Early Career Teachers (ECTs). Join Tem as she delves into the diverse world of teaching, offering valuable insights, tips, and advice on a variety of teaching strategies to help teachers thrive as classroom practitioners.  CONNECT & CONTACT:  Email: tem@helpingteachersthrive.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/temsteachingtips Instagram: instagram.com/temsteachingtips LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tem-ezimokhai-23306a263 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    37 min
  6. 12/11/2025

    Holding It Together: A Teacher’s Honest Journey in a Broken System

    DESCRIPTION: In this heartfelt episode, Telma Dias opens up about the intense stress and pressure of life in the classroom, sharing her honest reflections on what happens when teaching begins to feel overwhelming. From questioning her career choices in education to confronting the realities of teacher burnout and mental health, this conversation offers a raw and relatable look at the emotional toll of teaching. If you would like bespoke support, book a discovery call today: https://calendly.com/tem-helpingteachersthrive/discovery-call  KEY TAKEAWAYS: Teaching can be incredibly demanding and stressful.The constant pressure can lead to self-doubt about career choices.Mental health is a significant concern for educators.Support systems are crucial for teachers facing burnout.Career satisfaction can fluctuate based on external pressures.BEST MOMENTS: "The demands non-stop, the stress non-stop" "I have to say I question whether teaching was actually for me" "The stress was just immense" VALUABLE RESOURCES: Go to The Helping Teachers Thrive Hub to unlock exclusive content Telma's Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@TelmasPodcast Telma's Instagram: @tdiasdebrito EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT: The Power Of Positive School Cultures With Dr Jim Van Allan ABOUT THE HOST: Since embarking on her teaching journey in 2009, Tem has been on a mission to empower students to reach their fullest potential. Specialising as a Secondary Physical Education Teacher, Tem also has experience in Special Educational Needs (SEN) as a class teacher in an SEN provision. With an unwavering commitment to helping students become the best versions of themselves, Tem believes in the power of education to shape not just academic prowess, but character and resilience. Having mentored numerous teachers throughout her career, she is not only shaping young minds but also nurturing the growth of those who guide them. ABOUT THE SHOW: The podcast for teachers of many years, trainee teachers or Early Career Teachers (ECTs). Join Tem as she delves into the diverse world of teaching, offering valuable insights, tips, and advice on a variety of teaching strategies to help teachers thrive as classroom practitioners.  CONNECT & CONTACT:  Email: tem@helpingteachersthrive.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/temsteachingtips Instagram: instagram.com/temsteachingtips LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tem-ezimokhai-23306a263 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    54 min
  7. 05/11/2025

    Time Drains Every New Teacher Should Watch Out For (and How to Fix Them)

    DESCRIPTION: In this episode, Tem explores the time drains that new teachers and Early Career Teachers often face, and shares practical strategies to overcome them and reclaim their time. She discusses strategies for enhancing teacher well-being, the importance of building supportive networks, and the need to balance personal and professional life for optimal performance. If you would like bespoke support, book a discovery call today: https://calendly.com/tem-helpingteachersthrive/discovery-call  KEY TAKEAWAYS: Being aware is huge because then we are able to take control.Personal well-being impacts professional performance.Awareness leads to better decision-making.Building networks can enhance our teaching experience.BEST MOMENTS: "Spot those hidden drains" "Reducing those time drains is essential" "It's not good for our wellbeing. And these are eating away and draining our time" "Finding balance is a continuous journey" "Look after yourself and protect your own wellbeing" "We are doing hours of unpaid overtime" VALUABLE RESOURCES: Go to The Helping Teachers Thrive Hub to unlock exclusive content EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT: Why Overwork Isn’t Teacher Dedication ABOUT THE HOST: Since embarking on her teaching journey in 2009, Tem has been on a mission to empower students to reach their fullest potential. Specialising as a Secondary Physical Education Teacher, Tem also has experience in Special Educational Needs (SEN) as a class teacher in an SEN provision. With an unwavering commitment to helping students become the best versions of themselves, Tem believes in the power of education to shape not just academic prowess, but character and resilience. Having mentored numerous teachers throughout her career, she is not only shaping young minds but also nurturing the growth of those who guide them. ABOUT THE SHOW: The podcast for teachers of many years, trainee teachers or Early Career Teachers (ECTs). Join Tem as she delves into the diverse world of teaching, offering valuable insights, tips, and advice on a variety of teaching strategies to help teachers thrive as classroom practitioners.  CONNECT & CONTACT:  Email: tem@helpingteachersthrive.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/temsteachingtips Instagram: instagram.com/temsteachingtips LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tem-ezimokhai-23306a263 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    16 min
  8. 29/10/2025

    When You Feel Like Quitting: What to Do and Who to Talk To

    DESCRIPTION: If you’ve ever sat at your desk thinking, “I don’t know if I can keep doing this,” this episode is for you. Whether you’re a trainee teacher, an ECT, or an experienced educator, moments of overwhelm are not a sign of weakness, they’re a sign that something needs attention. In this honest and supportive episode of Helping Teachers Thrive, we talk openly about what to do when teaching feels too much to handle. If you would like bespoke support, book a discovery call today: https://calendly.com/tem-helpingteachersthrive/discovery-call  KEY TAKEAWAYS: Feeling like you want to give up is more common than you think, and it doesn’t make you a bad teacher.Your feelings are a signal that something isn’t working right now, not proof that you’ve failed.Identify the cause. Is it the school environment, a lack of support, workload, or a temporary situation? Clarity is power.Take small but meaningful steps. Talk to someone, adjust expectations, and set boundaries to protect your wellbeing.BEST MOMENTS: "You can't keep doing this, you can't keep going and you need a change" "I got to that point where I hated teaching." "It's definitely something that can be exciting and very scary." VALUABLE RESOURCES: Go to The Helping Teachers Thrive Hub to unlock exclusive content EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT: Life After Teaching with Kelly Neeson Overcoming a Toxic Environment: Boost Teacher Well-Being and Job Satisfaction ABOUT THE HOST: Since embarking on her teaching journey in 2009, Tem has been on a mission to empower students to reach their fullest potential. Specialising as a Secondary Physical Education Teacher, Tem also has experience in Special Educational Needs (SEN) as a class teacher in an SEN provision. With an unwavering commitment to helping students become the best versions of themselves, Tem believes in the power of education to shape not just academic prowess, but character and resilience. Having mentored numerous teachers throughout her career, she is not only shaping young minds but also nurturing the growth of those who guide them. ABOUT THE SHOW: The podcast for teachers of many years, trainee teachers or Early Career Teachers (ECTs). Join Tem as she delves into the diverse world of teaching, offering valuable insights, tips, and advice on a variety of teaching strategies to help teachers thrive as classroom practitioners.  CONNECT & CONTACT:  Email: tem@helpingteachersthrive.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/temsteachingtips Instagram: instagram.com/temsteachingtips LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tem-ezimokhai-23306a263 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    11 min

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About

Empowering Educators: Insights, Tips, and Strategies for Every Stage of Your Teaching Career with episodes now CPD accredited. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting your teaching journey, this resource is for you!  Join me as I dive into the diverse world of teaching, offering valuable insights, practical tips, and expert advice on effective teaching strategies to help you excel in your Teaching Career.  Since beginning my Teaching Career in 2009, I have been dedicated to empowering students to reach their full potential. I believe in the transformative power of education, not only to enhance academic success but also to build character and resilience. Through my experience mentoring teachers, I aim to continue shaping young minds while nurturing the growth of those who guide them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.