Golden Talks

Golden Talk: Series 2 EP 13: Danielle on Belonging

In this episode of Golden Talks, we hear from Danielle, a long-standing member of staff at Oakfield Primary Academy. Having first attended the school as a pupil, Danielle later returned as a teaching assistant and has now spent almost two decades supporting children and families. She reflects on the memories that shaped her childhood, the experience of working alongside former teachers, and the relationships she has built within the school community. 
Through her story, the episode gives us an insight into the culture across The Golden Thread Alliance schools, where staff support each other and work together to give children the best possible opportunities to succeed. 
Learn more: https://golden-thread.org/. 

Golden Talk: Series 2 EP 12: Alex on Belonging

In this episode of Golden Talks, we hear from Alex, a teacher at Fleetdown Primary Academy whose journey into education began as a pupil at one of the trust’s schools. Alex reflects on the teachers and experiences that shaped his childhood and inspired him to pursue a career in the classroom.  
He shares how small acts of kindness and recognition from staff left lasting impressions and helped him develop confidence and a sense of belonging. Alex also speaks about living with autism and how being open about his experiences allows him to support children in understanding their own strengths and individuality. 
Learn more about Belonging at The Golden Thread Alliance: https://golden-thread.org/. 

Golden Talk: Series 2 EP 11: Alisha and Sophie on Belonging

This episode of Golden Talks explores how early school experiences can inspire lifelong careers in education. Alisha and Sophie share their stories of attending schools within the Golden Thread community before returning years later as staff members.  
Sophie reflects on her childhood at Temple Hill and the strong family connections that tied her to the school, while Alesha describes how seeing deaf pupils during her own time at Fleetdown inspired her to train as a Teacher of the Deaf. From memories of playground games and school performances to working alongside teachers who once taught them, their conversation highlights how education can come full circle.  
Learn more about The Golden Thread Alliance: https://golden-thread.org/. 

Golden Talk: Series 2 EP 10: Hannah and Sharon on Belonging

In this episode of Golden Talks, we hear from two colleagues at very different stages of their careers who share one powerful connection – their journey began as pupils at Temple Hill. Sharon reflects on more than 30 years working at the school in a variety of roles, from classroom support to site management, and describes how the sense of pride, community and belonging has remained constant since her own school days.  
Hannah, currently completing her teacher training, shares how returning to the school where she once learned has shaped her ambitions and strengthened her passion for teaching. They reflect on memories of their time as pupils, the teachers who inspired them, and the unique culture that encourages former students to return and build their careers within the school community. 
Learn more about their journey:  https://golden-thread.org/. 

Golden Talk: Series 2 EP 9: Clare and Jackie on Belonging

In this episode of Golden Talks, we are joined by Clare and Jackie from West Hill Primary, who share a unique perspective on the school they once attended as pupils and now serve as staff members. The conversation explores their earliest memories of West Hill, the teachers who inspired them, and the traditions that have shaped the school community over many decades.  
Through heartfelt stories and reflections, Clare and Jackie show why West Hill remains such a special place for all and discuss how their experiences as former pupils influence the way they support and teach children today. 
For more information about The Golden Thread Alliance, please visit https://golden-thread.org/. 

Golden Talk: Series 2 EP 8: Clare and Lucia from Tobe Heartsafe

In this episode of Golden Talks, we are joined by Claire and Lucia from the ToBe Heartsafe team as they deliver CPR training sessions at The Riverview Academy.   
Claire and Lucia explain how their medical backgrounds and close connection to the organisation’s mission drive their passion for educating communities about heart health and emergency response. They also discuss the positive impact of the ongoing partnership between ToBe Heartsafe and Golden Thread schools, ensuring more children and families are prepared to act in an emergency. 
Learn more about The Golden Thread Alliance and how it celebrates the power of education, partnership, and preparation in saving lives: https://golden-thread.org/. 

Golden Talk: Series 2 EP 7: Kerry Milliken a co-founder of ToBe Heartsafe

In this special episode of Golden Talks, we speak with Kerry Milliken, co-founder and director of the not-for-profit organisation ToBe Heartsafe. Kerry shares the powerful story behind the organisation, which was created following the tragic loss of a young man to sudden arrhythmic death syndrome (SADS), an undiagnosed heart condition.  
Kerry explains the importance of teaching young people what to do in an emergency, helping them feel confident calling for help and taking action if someone collapses, while also exploring how Golden Thread schools are working with ToBe Heartsafe to deliver CPR and emergency response training to pupils and families. 
Learn more about The Golden Thread Alliance: https://golden-thread.org/. 

Golden Talk: Series 2 EP 6: Julia and Keeleigh from Oakfield on SEND/Inclusion

This episode of Golden Talks brings together Julia McCluskey and Keeleigh Jackson from Oakfield Primary Academy to discuss SEND, inclusion, and the power of belonging in education. They reflect on their professional journeys and the experiences that inspired them to focus on supporting children with additional needs.   
They discuss how Oakfield prioritises wellbeing, communication, and individualised support so that every pupil feels valued and understood. They also share examples of small but powerful successes, such as children developing communication skills or gaining confidence in everyday tasks. Their reflections highlight the dedication of school teams who work tirelessly to ensure that every child can thrive.  
Learn more about The Golden Thread Alliance: https://golden-thread.org/. 

Golden Talk: Series 2 EP 5: Terri Hickey on Belonging

In this episode of Golden Talks, we are joined by Terri Hickey, Operations Manager at The Riverview Academy, to discuss the theme of belonging and the powerful connections schools can build within their communities.  
Terri shares her unique journey from being a pupil at Riverview to becoming a key member of the school’s leadership team. She also talks about how Riverview has maintained its strong community ethos over the years, supporting both pupils and families while also highlighting how belonging can shape both personal journeys and whole school communities. 
For more information about The Golden Thread Alliance, please visit https://golden-thread.org/. 

Golden Talk: Series 2 EP 4: Fliss Walsh on SEND/Inclusion

In this episode of Golden Talks, we speak with Fliss Walsh, Deputy Head and Inclusion Lead at The Riverview Academy, about the meaning and importance of SEND and inclusion in schools today. Fliss shares what a typical morning looks like in her role, talks about her journey into inclusion, her passion for working closely with teachers and teaching assistants, and why building trust with parents is central to effective SEND support.  
She also discusses the broader challenges facing SEND provision nationally, including funding pressures, the impact of COVID-19 on children’s social and emotional development, and the importance of teamwork within schools in meeting complex needs.   
For more information about The Golden Thread Alliance, please visit https://golden-thread.org/.