Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 30/05/2025What a great thread. I remember someone once asking me when I came out. “Every time I meet someone new,” was my answer. I’m still in the habit of not looking at someone when I first mention my wife, to give them a moment for their face to react if they need it, and never knowing how they’ll be. 0215
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 29/05/2025It’s so important for young people just working out who they are to know that they are safe in the world 🤩 042
Reposted by Sally MichaelsBlue Squid Learning @bluesquidlearning.bsky.social · 08/05/2025New blog: Co-Regulation – Staying Calm to Help Them Stay Calm Why logic doesn’t work with dysregulated kids, and what does. For school staff & parents. Read it here: bluesquidlearning.com/co-regulatio... #coRegulation #SchoolAnxiety #YoungPeopleMatter #MentalHealthMatters #thisisAPbluesquidlearning.comCo-Regulation: Staying Calm to Help Them Stay CalmWhy reasoning doesn't work when a young person is dysregulated - and what to do instead. For teachers and parents supporting anxious pupils. 042
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 27/04/2025Some families cycle; some families hike. We love the river. We’ve lived (literally) on the Great Ouse for almost six years in our floating home and this summer we get to go further afield in this beauty 🛥️ ❤️ 020
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 19/04/2025This holiday, we bought a new boat and have been out on the river almost every day. What a great way to get several days of meaningful rest 🛥️ 020
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 17/04/2025I wasn’t going to say anything. Who am I to voice an opinion? But then I realised that if I don’t, I’m part of the problem. Yesterday’s ruling - and the disgusting celebration of other people’s oppression - was morally wrong and a worrying indication of the way we’re going. Where’s the humanity? 030
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 11/04/2025The holidays are for finding the joy in the everyday ❤️ 🛥️ 040
Reposted by Sally MichaelsBlue Squid Learning @bluesquidlearning.bsky.social · 10/02/2025School doesn’t have to be desks, bells, and stress. What if learning looked different? For young people struggling with school anxiety, the ‘traditional’ way isn’t always their way. And that’s okay. 💙 There’s more than one way to thrive. #Education #SchoolAnxiety #AlternativeProvision #thisisAP 162
Reposted by Sally MichaelsBlue Squid Learning @bluesquidlearning.bsky.social · 06/02/2025For young people with EBSNA, unpredictability can fuel anxiety. A predictable school day builds trust, reduces stress, and supports engagement. Read our latest blog to discover how routine - without rigidity - can help. #EBSNA #EBSA #SchoolAnxiety #thisisAP #youngpeoplematter #mentalhealthmattersbluesquidlearning.comThe Importance of Predictability and RoutinePredictability reduces anxiety and builds trust in school. Discover how routine creates a safe, supportive environment for young people with EBSNA. 031
Reposted by Sally MichaelsBlue Squid Learning @bluesquidlearning.bsky.social · 30/01/2025Alternative education isn’t a last resort - it’s a proactive, future-focused choice. At Blue Squid, we see young people with EBSNA thrive in the right environment. Read our latest blog challenging misconceptions about non-traditional schools. 👇 #thisisAP #youngpeoplematter #mentalhealthmattersbluesquidlearning.comChanging the Narrative About Alternative EducationAlternative education isn’t a last resort—it’s a proactive, future-focused choice. Read how non-traditional schools help young people thrive. 032
Reposted by Sally MichaelsBlue Squid Learning @bluesquidlearning.bsky.social · 29/01/2025School doesn’t have to feel like a roller-coaster ride! 🎢 At Blue Squid, we focus on calm vibes, fresh air, and steady progress. 🌿 Think of us as your child’s anxiety-free zone. Ready to explore? Let’s chat! #thisisAP #Cambridgeshire #mentalhealthmatters #youngpeoplematter 011
Reposted by Sally MichaelsSteve Walker @stevemaths.bsky.social · 24/01/2025Here's the #OCRMathspuzzle for this week! Have a great weekend! :) The below number properties apply to five consecutive numbers. What are the five numbers? #maths #teacher #puzzle #resource #number #numberproperties #MathsToday #ITeachMath #UKMathsChat 1205
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 23/01/2025Children really are the best 🤩 www.bbc.co.uk/news/article...bbc.co.ukWord of the Year: Kindness wins children's 2024 vote 043
Reposted by Sally MichaelsBlue Squid Learning @bluesquidlearning.bsky.social · 23/01/2025Calmer classrooms and smarter learning? 🌟 Discover how emotional literacy transforms chaos into focus, unlocking better outcomes for students. #thisisAP #mentalhealthmatters #youngpeoplematter #emotionalliteracy bluesquidlearning.com/from-chaos-t...bluesquidlearning.comChaos to Calm: How Emotional Literacy Transforms LearningDiscover how emotional literacy transforms classrooms by helping students regulate emotions, unlock learning, and build resilience. 032
Reposted by Sally MichaelsBlue Squid Learning @bluesquidlearning.bsky.social · 20/01/2025We know that progress isn’t always a straight line, sometimes it’s more of a funky dance. 🕺 At Blue Squid, we celebrate the little wins: a smile, a question, or trying something new. 💙 Let’s help your child find their groove again. #BlueSquidCambridgeshire #thisisAP #mentalhealthmatters 011
Reposted by Sally MichaelsBlue Squid Learning @bluesquidlearning.bsky.social · 15/01/2025Flexibility in education isn’t optional - it’s essential. Discover how alternative provisions like Blue Squid are transforming lives by meeting young people where they are. Read our latest blog and see how thinking differently changes everything. #thisisAP #youngpeoplematter #mentalhealthmattersbluesquidlearning.comFlexible Learning: the Unstoppable RevolutionJoe's journey shows how flexible, alternative education can transform lives, helping children rediscover learning and thrive on their own terms. 041
Reposted by Sally MichaelsGráinne Hallahan @heymrshallahan.bsky.social · 10/01/2025Worth reading if you’re a DSL 063
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 09/01/2025Really felt we were back in the flow today! We seemed to get the right balance between self-regulation time and work time for each learner and the morning flew by! Today, we started another great Literacy Shed unit 🏠 #thisisAP #youngpeoplematter #mentalhealthmatters 010
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 08/01/2025Today’s lesson? Never underestimate the power of being wrapped in a blanket and snuggled up on the sofa with a dog if you’re struggling to self-regulate. Betty the schnoodle is the most wonderful part of our wellbeing strategy ❤️ #thisisAP #mentalhealthmatters #youngpeoplematter 000
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 07/01/2025Today I was reminded how hard the transition in and out of the school holidays can be for some young people. Patience, teamwork, communication and flexibility was the order of the day 👍 #thisisAP #mentalhealthmatters #youngpeoplematter 072
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 06/01/2025Great to be back at our alternative provision today. Kids and staff all re-energised after the break. We caught up and started to get back in the routine of things #thisisAP #maths #spelling #alternativeprovision 040
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 02/01/2025Some students aren’t skipping school, they’re overwhelmed by it. As educators, how do we spot the signs of Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA) early? And what strategies actually help students feel safe enough to re-engage with learning? 1/2 140
Reposted by Sally MichaelsJenny M @abbyaug.bsky.social · 01/01/2025A great blog - every child deserves to be able to enjoy their learning & be happy at school. The key is relationships to quote- “Worst of all they didn’t know him. They never knew his dreams, his passion. They didn’t see him. They saw a target and a grade, no one talked to him about his ambitions.” 0185
Reposted by Sally Michaelsandrewoa33 @andrewoa33.bsky.social · 26/12/2024OK. I've read it. Twice. As ever with Russ, the gasps and guffaws come in equal measure and at breakneck speed. Superb and just like his books, hilariously unmissable. 0243
Reposted by Sally MichaelsNational Trust @nationaltrust.org.uk · 12/12/2024Two years after its felling, the Sycamore Gap tree lives on through 49 saplings donated to causes around the country as 'Trees of Hope'. Here's where they'll be sprouting up 🌳 9469128
Reposted by Sally MichaelsCelia Richardson @celiarichardson.bsky.social · 14/12/2024I love this map of places where sycamore gap tree saplings will be planted. They include the Rob Burrow Centre for MND and a plot in memory of a 15 year old girl killed by her ex-boyfriend. They stretch from the Orkneys to Cornwall. By @nationaltrust.bsky.social 331286284
Reposted by Sally Michaels🐱Mrs J🐝 @mrs-j.bsky.social · 05/12/2024Being a SENDCo is one hell of a struggle at the moment. Paperwork is out of control. Funding is non-existent. Constantly feeling that our children deserve better - I'm doing all I can and it's not enough. I've never known things to be so difficult. Year 29 of teaching is really testing me. 0122
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 13/12/2024This term, we’ve been talking a lot about getting back up when things get tough, and this morning’s trip to a dry ski slope was a great time to practise this! Everyone had at least a few turns down the small slope and one lad was so enthusiastic, he definitely got his money’s worth! #ThisisAP 031
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 13/12/2024Last day of term for us today - no more than 6 weeks at a time. Guess what we’re doing today? We’re off to the dry ski slope! ⛷️ Wish us luck 🤞 #thisisAP 040
Reposted by Sally MichaelsEd Finch @edfinch.bsky.social · 12/12/2024At some point in the next two or three weeks, you're going to need a child/family friendly Christmas Quiz for a class party or family get together. I made this one a few years ago - people tell me it works from Yr 4 right up to adults. mrefinch.wordpress.com/2020/12/06/the-great-christmas-quiz/ 68924
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 12/12/2024The key to re-engaging young people experiencing EBSA? Patience, empathy and collaboration 🤩 010
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 11/12/2024How cute are these? Christmas crafts are in full swing this week at Blue Squid! @bluesquidlearning.bsky.social #thisisAP 010
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 07/12/2024This morning, we visited our local craft shop to buy wool, then enjoyed a craft activity at Blue Squid Learning. The plan? Pom-Pom Santas. The outcome? Something far more delightful. …cont. 🧵 110
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 05/12/2024Recognising when a student needs to stop and self-regulate is key to their success 👍 021
Reposted by Sally MichaelsCeleste Ng @pronounced-ing.bsky.social · 30/11/2024Reposting with alt text! 81165507
Reposted by Sally MichaelsBlue Squid Learning @bluesquidlearning.bsky.social · 29/11/2024🎄 A Christmas Miracle at Blue Squid! 🎄 We’ll admit it – we’d been (just a little bit!) dreading putting up the Christmas tree this year. 121
Reposted by Sally MichaelsBlue Squid Learning @bluesquidlearning.bsky.social · 28/11/2024Getting ready for tomorrow 🤩 Our learners often have dyslexia or dyslexic traits, so we know the value of a multi-sensory approach. Here’s tomorrow’s spelling board - one of the many practical activities that will be available to practise spelling. Plus, we’re putting up the tree tomorrow! 🎄 031
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 27/11/2024Job Centres also need to understand how to find jobs for people with disabilities. I have a relative who would love to work, but the Job Centre couldn’t seem to get their heads around what they could/couldn’t do with their epilepsy. They kept sending driving and shift work jobs: really frustrating! 000
Reposted by Sally MichaelsAshleigh Pain @ashleighpain.bsky.social · 24/11/2024GIVEAWAY ⭐️ A free OFQUAL Level 2 Youth Mental Health Qualification day. The day offers 16 places to students Year 9 and over. Hosted at your school and running from 9am-2.45pm. Day to be agreed with you. To enter please like and retweet this post by Thursday 28th November at 8pm. 0118
Reposted by Sally MichaelsAshleigh Pain @ashleighpain.bsky.social · 26/11/2024Doesn’t get much recognition, but there is now a Youth Mental Health Qualification certified by OFQUAL, from Year 9 onwards. Only requires 6 hours participation. This is something I am proud to be involved in. For more information, please email support@firstaidprovision.co.uk 084
Reposted by Sally MichaelsBlue Squid Learning @bluesquidlearning.bsky.social · 26/11/2024AP places available now for KS3 & KS4 pupils experiencing EBSA in Cambridgeshire! Blue Squid's new alternative provision has places available now: an ideal provision for young people experiencing emotionally-based school avoidance (EBSA). Oh, and sometimes this bundle of fur joins us! 211
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 25/11/2024This! I was also a school refuser who looked like a well-behaved and quiet child. There are lots of kids in every school who look on the outside like they’re fine but on the inside they’re building layer upon layer of school-based trauma. School has to be a safe space for everyone ❤️ 010
Reposted by Sally Michaels@theheadsoffice @theheadsoffice.bsky.social · 24/11/2024@newtosltchat.bsky.social I hope you don’t mind me popping in just to tell you about Listening Ear. Completely free & confidential. A chance to chat to an experienced retired school leader about whatever is keeping you awake at night. I’d love you to follow me & message me for a chat 144
Reposted by Sally MichaelsEmma Goto @emmagoto.bsky.social · 23/11/2024I like that there is a professor of public understanding of mathematics. Hannah Fry announced as Professor of the Public Understanding of Mathematics www.maths.cam.ac.uk/features/han...maths.cam.ac.ukHannah Fry announced as Professor of the Public Understanding of Mathematics | Features: Faculty Insights 035
Reposted by Sally MichaelsDawn @newlydawned.bsky.social · 22/11/2024Whatever the truth is about Ofsted plans, and whatever the rights and wrongs are of what they should be measuring, why is this planning coming ahead of curriculum and assessment review? It seems so odd for Ofsted to decide what to measure ahead of government deciding what the curriculum should be. 161
Reposted by Sally MichaelsDr Emma Kell @thosethatcan.bsky.social · 18/08/2024If you're an educator preparing your toolkit for the year ahead, can I humbly recommend our Little Guide to Wellbeing and Self-Care? Adrian Bethune and I offer research-based, practical ideas and channel our belief that school staff deserve to thrive AND survive. #teacherwellbeingselfcare 1204
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 21/11/2024The view from my sofa tonight. So good for the soul ❤️ #mentalhealthmatters 010
Sally Michaels @sallyjmichaels.bsky.social · 21/11/2024This is my AP. Our priority is creating a calm, purposeful, caring and therapeutic learning environment for those who just can’t attend a mainstream school. I’m so proud of what we’ve created. We have amazing staff and the best learners 🤩 020