The Benefits of Podcasts: Why Teachers Should Be Listening

In this blog, you will learn:

• Why podcasts are beneficial for learning, development and entertainment.
• The 7 benefits of podcasts for Teachers.
• Where the latest teaching jobs are and how to apply for them.

To celebrate International Podcast Day, we’re looking at the reasons why Teachers should be listening to podcasts and the benefits to this accessible form of audio learning.

International Podcast Day is an annual event that falls on 30th September and celebrates the growing power and impact of podcasts. According to Statista, as of 2021, there were over 19.1 million podcast listeners in the UK and this is expected to grow to over 28 million listeners by 2026 as the popularity of podcasts increases. 

Podcasts are a popular and accessible form of audio content that cover a range of genres from true crime and comedy to expert-led interviews. However, podcasts aren’t just background noise - podcasts can be useful tools for learning, professional development and Teacher training.

For busy educators who struggle to find the time to learn, upskill or relax outside of the classroom, podcasts can play a crucial role in Teacher development and progression. Whether you’re planning a lesson or looking for a spark of creativity, podcasts can provide Teachers with opportunities to think, learn and be inspired on their own terms.

Whether it's for self-care or for learning strategies, this blog explores how Teachers can benefit from the wonderful medium of podcasts.

Why are podcasts beneficial?

Podcasts have become an increasingly popular and accessible form of media for people of all ages and professions including Teachers and Teaching Assistants. Many podcasts are free, easy to access and hands-free, making them ideal for busy educators.

One of the biggest advantages of podcasts is their flexibility as they allow Teachers to listen during their commute, while walking the dog or even in their downtime. According to the Ofcom Podcast Survey, 87% of respondents appreciate the convenience of being able to listen to podcasts whenever it suits them. 

How do podcasts benefit Teachers?

The 7 benefits of podcasts for Teachers:

• Continuous professional development.
• Training and skill building.
• Creativity.
• Entertainment and enjoyment.
• Wellbeing and mental health support.
• Teaching and learning tool.
• Foster a sense of community.

Continuous professional development

According to the Assemble You Audio Pilot Report, 92% of respondents find audio learning effective and 97% said they would like audio learning to be made available alongside other formats. 

Teachers are expected to engage in ongoing professional development throughout their career to stay up to date with best practices and changes in legislation to improve student outcomes. Podcasts can provide a platform for continuous education and skill development as well as offer diverse perspectives to learn from.

According to a survey by Ofcom, 27% of respondents listen to podcasts for professional development. The SecEd podcast discusses many topics including Teacher training, induction, best practice, and policy and research.

Continuous learning can take various forms including courses, workshops and mentoring or even self-directed options such as reading or educational podcasts.

Training and skill building

Podcasts can provide Teachers with valuable advice on multiple topics including spotting bullying, supporting LGBTQ+ students, CV advice and tips to survive a PGCE.

Teachers must stay up to date with safeguarding requirements and changes in legislation to ensure the safety and success of their students. Listening to safeguarding podcasts can be a great way for Teachers to access expert knowledge on this subject matter.

With flexible, on-demand access to expert insights, Teachers have the opportunity to strengthen their critical thinking and communication skills. They can also deepen their knowledge in specific subject areas or sectors where improvement may be needed. By developing their own knowledge, Teachers can effectively deliver high quality teaching to their students.

Creativity

Like any creative medium, podcasts can spark new ideas, interests and strategies. For Teachers looking for engaging classroom activities, best teaching practices or fresh perspectives on education, podcasts can serve as a useful source of inspiration.

Podcasts can boost creativity by exposing listeners to new ideas and narratives which can spark imagination and encourage new ways of thinking. Teachers who listen to podcasts can feel inspired to work harder, smarter and more creatively. This can increase student engagement, improve focus and help Teachers develop innovative approaches to their teaching.

Podcasts can also improve focus and comprehension skills which are beneficial for being creative and generating new ideas for the classroom. From these creative breakthroughs and bursts of inspiration, Teachers can create new lesson plans, teaching strategies and classroom projects.

There are several podcasts which explore lesson planning and problem-solving in the classroom including Mr Barton Maths Podcast and the Cult of Pedagogy Podcast.

Entertainment and enjoyment

It’s not just the training and career development opportunities which make podcasts valuable for Teachers, they can also be engaging, entertaining and fun! Teachers work tirelessly to educate, inspire and empower the next generation but the benefits of entertainment cannot be overlooked or exaggerated.

A survey by Ofcom found that 47% of podcast listeners tune in for entertainment. Podcasts are a great way to explore new topics, enjoy compelling stories or pursue personal interests outside of the classroom. 

Having a healthy work life balance is crucial and podcasts can be an effective way for Teachers to switch off from work, escape and enjoy engaging content outside of the classroom.

Wellbeing and mental health support

Juggling a full time teaching role and a busy home life can be stressful but podcasts can be the perfect way to escape the demands of the day.

According to a survey by the National Education Union, 75% of Teachers said they frequently find themselves ‘unable’ to switch-off from work-related thoughts and tasks when at home. 41% said this was ‘always’ the case. 

Being able to truly switch off and unwind from work is a luxury and something which everyone should strive for. According to Statista, 43% of podcast consumers listen to podcasts while relaxing at home. Podcasts can offer Teachers a quiet escape from daily pressures, supporting mental relaxation and overall wellbeing.

There are several wellbeing podcasts for educators including the Teacher Wellbeing Podcast, The Resilient Teacher Podcast and the Teaching Space. The Teaching Space claims to be for teachers or trainers who ‘want to be an amazing teacher without taking work home in the evening.’

Yoga, mindfulness and meditation podcasts are a great way for Teachers to relax or practice self-care in their down time. Yoga can help improve physical and mental wellbeing, focus and memory, as well as reducing stress. Podcasts such as The Yoga Life or Mindful In Minutes Meditation can boost self-confidence, improve focus and memory and create a more positive classroom management.

Practicising self care and mindfulness through podcasts can help Teachers return to the classroom feeling rested, inspired and empowered to support their students.

Teaching and learning tool

Audio learning such as podcasts and audiobooks are increasingly recognised as a valuable addition to traditional learning formats. 

Podcasts can be used in lessons to introduce topics, help students delve deeper into subjects and spark discussions. Teachers can incorporate podcasts into their teaching and use them in lessons to keep students engaged and entertained.

Teachers can use podcasts to add diverse voices and fresh content to their lessons, making teaching more effective and inclusive for all children.

Different voices and perspectives from podcasts can be especially effective for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs to help them access content in varied formats. By offering content in multiple formats, educators can cater to diverse learning styles.

The Evidence Based Education Podcast explores the elements of great teaching and the Teacher Toolkit Podcast focuses on providing resources and support for Teachers.

Teachers could also use podcasts as a classroom activity to inspire students and build confidence. By encouraging students to create and host their own podcast, students can develop interviewing and communication skills. Hosting a podcast can also deepen students' knowledge and understanding of different topics as they teach others from their own research.

Foster a sense of community

Podcasts can help to foster a sense of community among listeners who share similar interests which allows opportunities for connection, collaboration and shared learning. Listening to other professionals' experiences and perspectives on crucial educational issues can inspire Teachers actions and strategies in the classroom.

Some educators have their own podcasts and share their unique perspectives, practical tips and experience with fellow Teachers. This can inspire meaningful conversations and create an atmosphere of continuous learning and collaboration across the profession.

By engaging with educational, entertaining or wellness-focused podcasts, Teachers can contribute positively to the wider educational community and help foster a sense of shared experience and connection with others in the profession.

Fostering professional relationships with like-minded individuals interested in education can have a positive impact on teachers’ mental health and wellbeing.

Teaching jobs

If you’re searching for your next teaching job, why not take a look at the latest teaching vacancies, or simply upload your CV to be notified when a relevant position becomes available.

Recruit teaching staff

As a specialist education recruitment agency, we support mainstream and SEND schools with their temporary, permanent and temp-perm staffing needs. 

We currently work with hundreds of schools and have exclusive access to some of the best Teachers and Teaching Assistants in the North West.

If you’re struggling to fill a teaching vacancy, why not get in touch with one of our team to see how we can help?

• Primary schools - Jimmy Callagher 
• Secondary schools - Liam Jones
• SEND schools - Jamie Heath

Meet Jamie Heath

Who is Spencer Clarke Group?

Established in 2017, we’re an award winning and progressive recruitment agency based in the heart of the North West. Our reputation is built on trust, expertise and an unwavering commitment to exceed expectations. 

In 2024, we were named Recruitment Agency of the Year at the prestigious Recruiter Awards, an accolade we are extremely proud of.