At the chalk-face
At the Chalk Face is a no-nonsense podcast from Craig’n’Dave, tackling real issues in education. Expect honest chat about pedagogy, classroom practice, and what actually works — from two ex-teachers still embedded in the world of schools. Not just for computer science teachers — this one’s for every educator.
At the chalk-face
Non-specialist teachers curse or cure?
At the chalk face: Non-specialist teachers curse or cure?
Non-specialist teachers: The classroom reality no one talks about
Did you know a third of Year 7 lessons are taught by teachers who aren’t specialists in that subject? 🤯
Craig and Dave are back on the chalk face to tackle a topic every teacher has an opinion on — non-specialist teaching.
From teaching biology with no science background to discovering how to book a Bunsen burner two weeks in advance (!), this episode dives into the reality behind timetabling decisions, the pressure on schools, and why “you only have to stay one step ahead of the students” might be more true than you’d think.
In this episode, we chat about:
Why so many teachers end up teaching outside their specialism
What makes someone a “specialist” anyway?
How non-specialists can still make a huge impact
The long-term effects of non-specialist teaching on students
And a few confessions from Craig and Dave’s own classrooms!
👀 Watch now for an open, funny and surprisingly relatable discussion about the juggling act teachers face every day.
Great teaching isn’t just about degrees — it’s about connecting with students, building relationships, and staying one step ahead.
💬 Expect laughs, honest reflections, and some eyebrow-raising stories about life in the classroom — whether you’re a teacher, head of department, or just curious about how schools really work.
👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, so you never miss an At the Chalk Face episode.
Whether you’re a teacher, school leader, or just curious about the future of education, this discussion offers a thought-provoking look at innovation, flexibility, and what’s next for classrooms in England.
🔗 More from us:
Website & resources – Craigndave.org
Smart Revise – smartrevise.online
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