Blackpool Sixth Podcasts

BTEC Uniformed Protective Services Podcast: Life in the Police with Inspector Kirsty Wyatt

Are you interested in a career in the Police? Would you like to know more about what it is like working in modern policing? In this episode of our BTEC Uniformed Protective Services Podcast, Paul Moran chats to Inspector Kirsty Wyatt from Lancashire Constabulary about her career journey and experiences.  Kirsty provides excellent information about the different routes into the Police and shares her passion for this important and dynamic career sector. 

Thrive Episode 14: Loneliness

In this podcast, teachers Rob and Clair talk about loneliness. Loneliness can take many forms and can affect pretty much anyone at some stage in their lives.  Rob and Clair discuss how to help deal with feelings of loneliness and lack of connection with other people.  They also talk about the simple ways in which we can support family, friends, colleagues and other people we meet in ways that reduce loneliness in our communities. 

Thrive Episode 13: Mental Health Awareness Week

In this episode, Carmen and Julia from our Additional Learning Support team talk about the Mental Health Awareness Week which runs from 10-14 May.  The particular theme of the week is connecting with nature and this episode covers some of the benefits to wellbeing to be found in spending time outside in nature and in growing your own flowers and vegetables (even if it's on a very small scale). Carmen and Julia also outline the wider support for mental health and wellbeing which is always available in the college.

BTEC Uniformed Protective Services: RAF careers with Sgt Tony Davenport

In this latest episode from our BTEC Unformed Protective Services team, Paul Moran talks to Sergeant Tony Davenport from RAF Outreach about the fantastic career opportunities offered by the Royal Air Force. Tony outlines his own experiences from nearly 20 years in the service which have included a variety of roles and working in different parts of the world.  He also provides some very valuable advice for young people who may be interested in joining the RAF. You can find out more about RAF careers on Instagram @rafcareersnorthwest and @rafcareersmanchester.

Thrive Episode 12: Lockdown Learns

In this latest episode in the Thrive series of wellbeing podcasts, Blackpool Sixth staff members Dan and Sophie look back at their experience of 'lockdown' and other Coronavirus restrictions over the past year. They discuss what they feel they have learnt from the experience and how their students have responded to the events of the past year.  They talk particularly about the 'positives' which have come out of this difficult time such as new skills, attitudes and ways of enjoying life. 

Thrive Episode 11: Learning from Failure

In this latest episode in the 'Thrive' wellbeing series, Blackpool Sixth maths teachers Rob and Callum discuss the importance of learning from failure.  They reflect on setbacks they have experienced in their lives and what they learnt from them.  They share their perspectives on how failure can often be the starting point for success.  Their conversation also covers their experience of video games and quiz shows!

Thrive Episode 10: The Power of Self-Help Books

In this latest episode of the Thrive podcast series, Blackpool Sixth staff members Stuart and Helen discuss what can be learnt from books about improving your wellbeing.  They focus particularly on the book 'Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway' by Susan Jeffers.  They have both found this book very helpful in dealing with situations such as making big decisions about the direction of your life. 

BTEC Uniformed Protective Services: My Life as a Paramedic

Ever wondered what life is like for a paramedic? In this first episode in a new series produced by our Uniformed Protective Services team, we hear from James Gorrie, a former Blackpool Sixth student who works as a paramedic in the North West.  James is in conversation with UPS teacher Paul Moran, and the two discuss the challenges of a career on the front-line of healthcare, especially during the current Covid-19 pandemic.  James talks about the highs and lows of the job and gives very valuable advice for anyone considering a similar career. 

Thrive Episode 9: It's Okay not to be Okay

In this episode Blackpool Sixth staff members Curtis and Amanda talk about mental health. Curtis describes his own struggles with poor mental health and how he deals with it.  The conversation also covers how best to support others with their mental health and the importance of breaking down the stigma about talking about this immensely important topic.

Thrive Episode 8: Wellbeing Week with Jill

This special episode of the Thrive podcast series forms part of Blackpool Sixth's 'Wellbeing Week'.  Our Principal, Jill, is in conversation with Student Wellbeing Lead, Dave.  Jill describes how she maintains her own mental and physical wellbeing on a day-to-day basis and reflects on how she has coped with the many challenges of 'life in lockdown'.