In the latest episode of the podcast "Two Heads are Better Than One," hosts Rod Grant and Cameron Wyllie discuss all things Christmas; from our favourite Nativity stories to what goes on behind the scenes at staff Christmas parties, and so much more! Get into the Festive spirit with some joyous reminiscing of Christmas time in schools.

We'd love to hear your thoughts, stories and questions about schools and education today. Email or send us a voice note to rodandcameron@gmail.com

"Everybody should start at the same point."

In this episode of 'Two Heads are Better Than One', Rod Grant and Cameron Wyllie sit down and chat with education expert with Bruce Robertson, CEO of Next Level Educational and former head teacher at Berwickshire High School.

Starting with some listener feedback and teaching stories, like the time 5 P7 pupils were excluded on day for scraping and asking should you suspend pupils for swearing at teachers?

But the key theme to this conversation is what constitutes a great lesson?

Bruce shares insights from his extensive experience in education, emphasising the need for clarity in curriculum, the significance of engaging lessons, and the necessity of professional development for teachers. They highlight the challenges and opportunities within the educational landscape, advocating for a more informed and collaborative approach to teaching and learning.

Key Insight:

Clarity is key! Teachers must be clear about what students need to learn to foster real understanding.

Key Takeaways:

A great lesson starts with clear learning intentions.

Engagement in lessons is essential for student interest.

Curriculum clarity is vital for effective teaching.

Differentiation should focus on outcomes, not just ability groups.

Success in learning is a key motivator for students.

Professional reading helps teachers make informed decisions.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

02:47 Discipline and Consequences in Schools

05:56 Restorative Practices vs. Sanctions

09:01 Parental Support and School Decisions

11:49 Feedback and Perspectives on Education

16:46 What Makes a Great Lesson?

29:37 Curriculum Clarity and Content

38:50 Final Tips for Effective Teaching

We'd love to hear your thoughts, stories and questions about schools and education today. Email or send us a voice note to rodandcameron@gmail.com

• Why many teachers avoid reporting abuse — and how vague definitions of “violence” distort the data.
• Rod and Cameron share vivid, sometimes humorous memories of corporal punishment in their own schooldays — the “tawse,” cold-water regrets, and the accidental self-belting teacher.
• A serious discussion on balance: how Scotland moved from physical punishment to restorative practice — and why many educators say the new approach is failing.
• The crisis of classroom safety: from verbal aggression to shocking stories of violence, and the toll on teachers’ mental health.
• Exploring solutions — should disruptive pupils be taught online or in specialist units? Should there be clearer sanctions for violence?
• Why “mainstreaming” may have gone too far — and how it’s affecting both learning and teacher morale.
• A call to action for teachers and school leaders to share their real experiences, anonymously if necessary, to inform the debate on reform.

We'd love to hear your thoughts, stories and questions about schools and education today. Email or send us a voice note to rodandcameron@gmail.com

• Why teaching is more than just a science—it’s a craft fueled by passion.
• How strong relationships and collegiality impact both teachers and students.
• The importance of a knowledge-rich curriculum and structured environments.
• How extracurricular activities support student growth and development.

• Teaching is both an art and a craft.
• Autonomy fuels great teaching.
• A positive school ethos blends structure with care.
• Students flourish in knowledge-rich, community-minded environments.