I really enjoyed the opportunity to share my session on 'States of Emotion in Children' with the secondary teaching students from South West Teacher Training last month.

It’s always a privilege to spend time with future educators who are open to reflecting not just on what they teach, but how they show up in the classroom.
We explored the idea that emotions are not distractions from learning - they are powerful tools. They shape our ability to learn, influence the decisions we make, impact how we form relationships and ultimately affect how we experience success in school and beyond. Developing emotional literacy is not an “add-on”; it is central to effective teaching and learning.

We also considered research around children’s emotional development and how different emotional states can present in school settings - sometimes in ways that are misunderstood. These conversations led us to think about practical, compassionate classroom support, and how small relational shifts can make a significant difference.

Importantly, we reflected on how our own emotional states as educators influence the classroom climate. Self-awareness is one of the most powerful professional tools we have. The way we regulate ourselves models regulation for the young people in front of us.

As ever, I was reminded of the enduring wisdom of Maya Angelou:
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
For educators, this feels especially pertinent. Long after lesson content fades, the emotional imprint of our classrooms remains.

Thank you to Chloe Fox and the students for your thoughtful engagement and willingness to reflect so openly. It gives me great hope for the classrooms you will lead in the future.