by Sally Michaels | Apr 23, 2025 | Practical Strategies, Whole-School Approaches
In schools, we often talk about “giving students a voice” as though it’s a nice-to-have, something we add in once everything else is running smoothly. But, at Blue Squid, we believe student voice isn’t the finishing touch, it’s the foundation. When young people feel... 
by Sally Michaels | Mar 27, 2025 | Building Relationships, Whole-School Approaches
At Blue Squid, we work every day with young people whose relationship with school has been shaped not by learning, laughter, or curiosity, but by fear. Fear of getting it wrong. Fear of being punished for mistakes. Fear of being noticed, and fear of being invisible.... 
by Sally Michaels | Mar 13, 2025 | Practical Strategies, Whole-School Approaches
Imagine your classroom as a place where students can manage frustration, stay calm under pressure, and bounce back from setbacks. Imagine fewer disruptions, fewer conflicts, and more engaged learners. This isn’t just wishful thinking, it’s what happens when students... 
by Sally Michaels | Feb 13, 2025 | Practical Strategies, Understanding Anxiety, Whole-School Approaches
Why is it that the words we use can carry so much weight? For those of us working with young people who are struggling to attend school, the language we choose can either build bridges or deepen divides. For years, “school refusal” has been the default phrase to... 
by Sally Michaels | Jan 23, 2025 | Practical Strategies, Understanding Anxiety, Whole-School Approaches
Picture this: a Year 8 student is staring at their maths worksheet. Their face flushes, their breathing quickens, and their hand shoots up to push the paper away. “This is stupid,” they say, voice rising. Nearby, their friend shifts uncomfortably, trying to offer help... 
by Sally Michaels | Jan 15, 2025 | Understanding Anxiety, Whole-School Approaches
The world is changing at an astonishing pace. Technology, societal norms, and the needs of young people are evolving, yet many aspects of our education system remain stubbornly rooted in traditions designed for a bygone era. While there’s comfort in the familiar, we...