In this energising episode, we sit down with classroom champion and education leader Aaron Johnston to explore what it really takes to thrive as a teacher, especially when navigating the challenges of composite classes and high expectations.

Aaron brings his signature practical wisdom and heartfelt encouragement as we chat about his career in teaching and what he has learned along the way.

Together, we unpack the misconceptions around teaching multi-age classes, realistic strategies for differentiation that won’t double your workload, and Aaron’s brilliant ideas to boost student engagement through voice and choice.

Key Takeaways in this episode:

• How to teach composite classes with confidence
• Smart differentiation strategies
• Tapping into resources and using what you’ve got
• How student voice matters in the classroom
• How to make big impact with small tweaks
• Overcoming teacher overwhelm

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in perfectionism, or simply curious about what sustainable teacher growth looks like, this one’s for you. Grab your coffee and get ready to take notes—you’ll leave this episode feeling empowered, supported, and ready to embrace the “classroom champion” within.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the Teacher Takeaway Podcast here.

Connect with Aaron on Instagram or TikTok

NSW DoE Units of Work

• K-2 Engish
• K-2 Maths
• 3-6 English
• 3-6 Maths

Find Mr J's Resources here

Book Links:

The Pruning Principle - https://ambapress.com.au/products/the-pruning-principle

De-implementation - https://www.corwin.com/books/de-implementation-281294

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Report card season doesn't have to mean late nights and coffee-fuelled stress! In this episode, Ash and Alisha are diving into practical, time-saving strategies to make report writing smoother, more efficient, and—dare we say it—more enjoyable.

From creating systems that actually work, to harnessing the power of assessment books and AI tools, this episode is packed with helpful ideas to support you during one of the busiest times in the school calendar. You’ll learn how to manage your workload, maintain a positive mindset, and even turn writing reports into a task that feels a little more satisfying.

7 Report Card tips:

• A reporting timeline is your friend
• Have your assessment book ready
• Allocate blocks of time
• Teamwork makes the dream work (Ai might be part of your team)
• Follow a system
• Remember it is part of your job
• Reward yourself

Whether you’re a brand-new teacher or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you feel more organised, empowered, and in control. Because report writing doesn’t need to be a solo struggle—let’s work smarter and not harder!

For more report writing help, check out our blog.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Steal our Report Card Writing Timeline

Check out the Report Companion - all the help you need to write reports

Rainbow Sky’s Assessment Book

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Let’s be honest—school politics can be a lot. Whether it’s gossip in the staffroom, unclear power dynamics, or just the unspoken rules of the workplace, navigating it all can take a toll on even the most passionate teachers .In this episode, we are getting real about school politics. They’re sharing practical, mindset-focused strategies to help you rise above the noise, set healthy boundaries, and stay anchored in your purpose - supporting students.

You’ll walk away with 10 powerful tips to help you manage tricky dynamics, avoid energy-draining drama, and protect your joy as an educator. Whether you're a new teacher feeling out the lay of the land, or a seasoned pro trying to dodge the politics spiral, this one's for you.

What You’ll Learn:

• 10 practical tips to deal with school politics (without losing your spark!)
• How to avoid gossip and stay grounded in professionalism
• Why being “Switzerland” can actually protect your wellbeing
• Ways to understand power dynamics and avoid misunderstandings
• The role of boundaries in sustaining your joy and mental health
• How to build a trusted circle of supportive colleagues
• Strategies to lead with integrity—even when things get murky

Every school has its politics and it isn’t always easy to navigate. Take some of these strategies to help you deal with it because we don’t want you to lose your love for teaching.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Join our Podcast Facebook Group here

Having trouble with staff morale at your school? Grab this freebie to help boost morale.

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