Kadra shares insights from the “Behaviour and Mental Health in Schools” report, highlighting the rise of zero-tolerance policies, the increase in exclusions, and the equity challenges faced by students from lower-income families, racialised backgrounds, and those with special educational needs. We discuss the real-life impact of these policies, not just on students, but on teachers and families, and consider how trauma-informed and restorative approaches could offer a more supportive path forward.

José Mario is an educator and artist, adopted from Guatemala and raised in Essex. They have a background in pastoral and safeguarding leadership in schools, having worked in London and Oxford. Their practice centres on care in education. Mario studied Fine Art at the University of Oxford and later completed a Master's in Education from UCL.

Disclaimers

This podcast aims to provide a balanced and research-informed discussion. Every effort has been made to include a range of perspectives.

The views expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Yap Productions or any affiliated institutions.

The series includes an anonymous interview with a former Michaela student. The views expressed reflect this individual’s personal experience and are not representative of all Michaela students. Yap Productions approached several former students, but only one agreed to take part.

Michaela Community School and Katharine Birbalsingh were both offered the opportunity to respond to the issues raised in this episode.

Credits

Contracts: Annisha Jhatakia

Editor: Beau Falconer

Music: Beth Hayden

Producers: José Mario Dellow and Tessa Cooper

Researchers/Hosts: Marth