Young teachers often ask me how I know so much stuff. I tell them that I’ve been working in education for a pretty long time now. Whilst this is true, anyone who has sat in a room with me for more than half an hour, will also know that I love BBC Radio 4 and it’s one of the main sources of my information.
I love programmes that tell me more about people, so here are 4 of my favourites:
- Desert Island Discs– my absolute favourite. I never miss this programme and listen to lots of the archive editions too. Two episodes have really stuck with me – Captain Eric ‘Winkle’ Brown, former test pilot; and vascular and war surgeon David Nott. Eric Brown amazes me, and David Nott makes me cry every time I hear it.
- Last Word – Radio 4’s weekly obituary programme, telling the life stories of those who have died recently. A fascinating mix of people I know of and those I don’t. I learn loads from listening to this. A good 30 minutes on the way home on a Friday.
- I also love a bit of nature and history, and Open Country, the countryside magazine, gives me lots of information about the people and wildlife that shape the landscape of the British Isles.
- Finally, for a bit of silliness and far too much innuendo, you can’t beat I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue, the long-running, self-styled antidote to panel games. Hilarious programme that will have you laughing out loud.
Oh yeah, and I’m also addicted to the Archers!