Think playdough is just for the early years? Think again!

In this episode, we explore how playdough can become your secret weapon for teaching maths concepts in Grades 3–6. From creating number lines to measuring angles, they share 8 classroom-ready ideas that will make your maths block more hands-on, differentiated, and downright irresistible.

This episode was inspired by a content planning session where we explored how to bring more fun and engagement to maths groups. What came out of it? A treasure trove of unique, brain-boosting ways to bring maths to life using one humble (and squishy) tool: playdough.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How playdough supports cognitive and social-emotional development
• Creative activities for teaching multiplication, area, perimeter & more
• Ideas for using playdough to make abstract maths visible and tactile
• A simple recipe to whip up your own classroom batch
• A free bonus guide to help you plan engaging maths lessons students will love

Whether you’re looking to reach visual learners, build fine motor skills, or simply change things up, these strategies will help you teach key maths concepts with confidence and creativity.

If you loved this episode, please leave us a review!!

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Our fave Playdough recipe

Free Guide: 6 ways to create math lessons your students love

Find visuals of the activities we spoke about today here.

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Get ready to meet the principal who’s rewriting the rulebook - one hallway conversation at a time. In this energising chat, we’re joined by Jared Lamb (commonly known as @principal_lamb), the dynamic school leader known for ditching the principal’s office in favour of a rolling cart, 20,000 steps a day, and a relentless commitment to connection.

We dive into Jared’s bold decision to lead from the heart (and the hallways), why joy should be part of every school’s strategic plan, and how teachers can embrace servant leadership—no matter their role.

Key Takeaways with Principal Lamb:

• How to lead with your feet - Why Jared traded his office for a cart
• What servant leadership looks like in action.
• What teachers really need right now, and how schools can step up.
• How fun, laughter, and play build stronger school cultures.
• The power of perspective as a leader and teacher
• How social media helps Jared support educators globally.
• Jared’s non-negotiables for building a connected, thriving school.

Whether you’re an early-career teacher looking for a spark or a seasoned educator craving authentic school culture, this episode will leave you inspired to lead, teach, and connect in ways that truly matter.

If you loved this episode, please leave us a review!! OR if you have a principal with a rolling cart, send us a DM, we would love to hear about it!

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Connect with Jared on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube

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Are your students groaning when it’s maths time? Let’s change that—starting today!

In this energising episode, we dive into six tried-and-true strategies for turning your maths block into one of the most engaging parts of the school day. If you are looking for fresh inspiration, these tips will empower you to create lessons that are hands-on, inclusive, and loved by all learners.

This episode is a repurposed gem from an audio summit we have contributed to. The summit is linked below.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to differentiate maths lessons without doubling your workload
• The power of concrete materials and open-ended tasks
• Ways to promote a growth mindset and celebrate every learner
• How identifying “good mathematician behaviours” can boost confidence
• The importance of engaging all learning styles
• A fun and free game, Multiplication Flip It, to bring fluency practice to life

From embracing risk-taking to making the most of mini whiteboards, we’re covering the essentials of engagement in maths. Let’s make it the best part of the school day for both you and your students.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Free Multiplication Flip It Game

Free eBook: 6 ways to create math lessons your students love

Audio Summit Access Pass

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Breaking down barriers starts with small shifts, big heart, and the belief that every child deserves to thrive.

In this empowering episode, we explore what it really takes when it comes to teaching students with autism—with real-life strategies, heartfelt stories, and a whole lot of teacher-to-teacher encouragement.

We sit down with educator and author Eliza Rudston, whose book Confidently Teach Students with Autism is already making waves in classrooms across the country. Eliza shares the moment that inspired her work, the lessons that surprised her, and the tools that help teachers feel more confident and capable every day.

In this episode, we explore:

• What autism is and why it’s important to understand
  
  
  
• Practical strategies for teaching students with autism
  
  
  
• Common classroom barriers—and how to break through them
  
  
  
• The role of peers in creating inclusive learning environments
  
  
  
• Resources to support you on your inclusion journey
  
  
  

Whether you're just beginning or looking to deepen your knowledge, this episode will give you the tools and mindset shifts to feel empowered when teaching students with autism.

Rainbows ahead,
Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Confidently Teach Students with Autism – Eliza’s book
• You can reach out to Eliza at elizarudston@gmail.com
• amaze.org.au
• autismspeaks.org
• inclusionED

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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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How often do you pause during the school day to give your students (and yourself!) a chance to reset?

In this energising episode of Rainbow Skies for Teachers, we’re joined by the wonderful James Robinson from Amplify to talk all things brain breaks—what they are, why they matter, and how to use them effectively in your classroom.

James shares practical tips, simple activities, and must-know strategies to make brain breaks a seamless part of your day. From improving focus and behaviour to supporting emotional regulation and student wellbeing, this conversation is full of golden takeaways to help teachers at any stage of their career.

Plus, we explore ways to build classroom culture, engage students with fun (and purposeful!) activities, and tap into the joy of learning—because when we teach students to pause, reset, and reconnect, we’re also teaching them lifelong skills.

Throughout the episode we discuss:

• What are brain breaks and why are they so powerful?
• The science behind brain breaks: improving focus, regulation, and classroom culture
• Examples of go-to activities like "Sevens", "Beat Goes Around the Room", and Silent Ball
• Tips for introducing and teaching brain breaks at the start of the school year
• How to adapt brain breaks for individual needs or whole-class fun
• Why variety matters and how to create a "brain break toolkit"
• Ideas for rolling out brain breaks gradually with success

If you enjoyed this episode, we would love it if you could leave us a 5-star review!

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Find a list of Brain Breaks on our blog

Enjoy a free trial at Amplify Music Education

Connect with James via Amplify through Instagram or on their website

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