Walk into a modern school, and innovation can seem impossible to miss: screens, devices, robotics, virtual spaces and AI. But does more technology actually mean better learning?

In this episode of The Better Question, James Lister is joined by Anthony England, Director of Innovative and Learning Technologies at Pymble Ladies’ College in Sydney, to challenge some of our assumptions about technology, innovation and education.

Anthony explores why true innovation requires courage, trust and the freedom to fail - and why sometimes the most innovative thing a school can do is return to something simple. Together, they explore AI, creativity, curiosity, efficiency and the danger of making convenience the goal of learning.

The conversation asks a bigger question: are we using technology to amplify human potential, or are we allowing it to replace the thinking, struggle and curiosity that make learning meaningful?

Because, as Anthony says, real innovation isn't about the technology you can see. It's about the spark you can see in a student's eyes.

A child refuses to work. Another explodes over something that seems tiny. Another withdraws completely. As educators, we see the behaviour - but what might we be missing beneath it?

In this episode of The Better Question, James Lister is joined by Sarah Forgan, Senior Consultant with the Berry Street Education Model, to explore trauma-informed education and what it can teach us about behaviour, regulation, relationships and learning.

Sarah challenges some common assumptions about trauma-informed practice, explaining why understanding behaviour doesn't mean excusing it, why teachers don't need to know a child's entire trauma story, and how we can maintain high expectations while giving students the support and skills they need to meet them.

From consistent routines and relational safety to practical approaches for regulation and de-escalation, this conversation asks educators to look beyond behaviour and consider the unmet needs beneath it.

Because sometimes, the better question isn't “How do I stop this behaviour?” it's “What does this student need to re-enter the learning space?”

What does it really mean to be “good at maths”? Hayley Sommeling, Twinkl’s Maths Educational Content Lead, explores how confidence, mistakes, struggle and creative thinking can transform the way students see themselves as mathematicians. 

From teacher confidence and gender gaps to assessment, technology and the future of maths, this episode challenges the idea that maths is simply about getting the right answer - and asks how we can create classrooms where every student feels confident enough to have a go.

Learning to read is only the beginning. So how do we help children move from “I can read” to “I am a reader”? Rebecca Burrows, former primary teacher for over 20 years and now Twinkl’s Educational Content Lead for its popular Originals storybooks series, explores how teachers and families can build a genuine love of reading.

From reading aloud and giving children choice to supporting reluctant readers, discover how small moments can create lifelong readers - and open the door to curiosity, imagination and possibility.

How can teachers confidently teach Indigenous perspectives with authenticity, curiosity and respect? Michael Evans, a proud Aboriginal educator and advisor to Twinkl Australia on Indigenous resources, explores why the fear of getting it wrong can become a barrier to getting started.

From building meaningful relationships with local Aboriginal communities to recognising Indigenous knowledge across the curriculum, this episode challenges teachers to move beyond tokenism, build their confidence and make Indigenous perspectives part of everyday learning.

The Better Question is a podcast for educators who want to think more deeply about teaching, learning and the future of education.

Hosted by James Lister, Twinkl’s Head of Curriculum, each episode explores the ideas shaping education; from curriculum and pedagogy to inclusion, technology, wellbeing and the changing role of teachers. Through conversations with teachers, school leaders and experts, we go beyond easy answers to challenge assumptions and uncover new perspectives.

Grounded in expertise and driven by curiosity, The Better Question connects big ideas with practical insight to help educators think differently and make a difference.