Beyond the Grade

What does it really take for children to feel they belong in school and why does it matter so much? In this episode of Beyond the Grade , Andrew Hammond is joined by Professor Kathryn Riley, a pioneer in the field of place and belonging. Together, they discuss why a sense of connectedness is fundamental to both wellbeing and academic success, and how schools that prioritise belonging see tangible...

In this episode of Beyond the Grade , Andrew Hammond is joined by oracy specialist, Georgie Ross, to discuss why communication skills are more important than ever for young people preparing for life beyond school. Together they discuss how strong communication underpins everything from building confidence and expressing ideas, to wellbeing and navigating the modern job market. The conversation loo...

In this episode of Beyond the Grade , Andrew Hammond sits down with Kelly Guthery, Education Quality Advisor at Outcomes First Group, to discuss career guidance and how we define success in education. Kelly shares her experience working with young people to help them discover their passions and what excites them, alongside practical insights into how schools can build the foundations for positive,...

In this episode of Beyond the Grade , Andrew Hammond sits down with global motivational speaker, awardwinning entrepreneur, and UK bestselling author, Sabirul Islam. Known for inspiring students across schools, colleges and universities worldwide, Sabirul specialises in using entrepreneurial thinking to help young people shape their futures. Sabirul shares his remarkable personal journey, includin...

What makes a young person fall in love with science? In this inspiring episode, Andrew Hammond sits down with viral science content creator Emanuel Wallace, better known as Big Manny, to discuss how curiosity is sparked amongst young people. Manny shares his mission to inspire the next generation by making science feel relevant and accessible, especially for young people who don’t always see thems...

In this episode of Beyond the Grade, Andrew Hammond sits down with leading parent coach Natalie Costa for a powerful conversation about what it means to raise children with emotional fitness. Together, they discuss why emotional agility is such an important skill and how emotional steadiness starts with us as adults – whether that’s a parent or teacher. Andrew and Natalie also explore whether ther...

In this episode of Beyond the Grade, Andrew Hammond is joined by Alex Fairweather, CEO of Greater Manchester Youth Network (GMYN) - a charity dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for young people to grow in confidence, build connections and thrive. Together, they discuss the transformative power of youth work and the environments that shape young lives. They explore: - how a strong sense...

In this episode of Beyond the Grade, Andrew Hammond sits down with Pride of Britain Award winner Javeno McLean – an exercise specialist whose mission is to use fitness as a tool for empowerment, confidence and connection, particularly for people with disabilities or facing disadvantages. Together, they explore what it means to create inclusive and supportive environments where young people can be...

What matters more in 2026 - memorising facts or thinking critically? In this episode of Beyond the Grade, writer, broadcaster, and campaigner Natasha Devon joins Andrew to explore some of the biggest pressures young people face today and how schools can become the antidote. They explore the realities of wellbeing in education, the impact of constant pressure on young minds, and the growing debate...

Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies are transforming the world at lighting speed so how do we prepare young people for a future that’s constantly evolving? What skills will matter most? And what role will immersive content and AI play in children’s learning in the classroom and beyond? In this episode, Andrew is joined by Phil Birchnall, Senior Director of Immersive Content at Discov...