Auscast Literature Channel

In this episode of Around the School Table (xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis is joined by Hans Moningka, Director, APAC from RM PLC Group (rm.com) to explore the evolving landscape of digital assessment. He brings a global perspective shaped by partnerships with major assessment authorities and education systems. Throughout the conversation, Hans unpacks how digital exams are steadily replacing paper-based models. Rather than describing a sudden revolution, he outlines a careful and strategic shift. Moreover, he explains why accessibility is driving student preference for online assessment. Research across several countries shows most students favour digital formats, especially after direct experience. Importantly, Hans addresses the balance between innovation and integrity. While digital platforms offer flexibility, assessment authenticity must remain central. Therefore, the discussion explores tools such as secure exam browsers, focus tracking, and AI-supported proctoring. These technologies strengthen oversight, yet they also raise ethical considerations. In addition, the episode examines the growing influence of artificial intelligence in schools. AI-generated content is becoming more common. Consequently, educators must rethink how originality and authorship are assessed. Hans shares practical insights into responsible AI use, emphasising preparation over panic. For teachers and school leaders, the conversation highlights two key gaps: availability and preparation. Infrastructure, device access, and professional learning all shape readiness. Furthermore, mindset plays a critical role. Small, deliberate steps towards digital integration can build long-term confidence. Ultimately, this episode offers cautious optimism. Assessment will continue to evolve, yet humane and credible practice can remain at its core. For educators navigating change, the insights from Hans provide clarity, reassurance, and strategic direction. Powered by: xuno.com.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on Around the School Table (xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis is joined by James Thomas, Managing Director of Digital Education Partnerships Indonesia (DEPI) (depi.co.id). DEPI helps international edtech companies build trust and traction across Indonesia’s vast school landscape. It’s a market shaped by scale, complexity, and relationships. Early in the conversation, James breaks down what makes Indonesia unique. There are tens of millions of students and hundreds of thousands of schools. However, size is only one factor. Just as important is how schools communicate, buy, and implement systems. Next, the episode digs into a common assumption about “international schools”. Many people expect mature operations. Yet the reality can be mixed. James shares research across SPK schools (SPK stands for Satuan Pendidikan Kerja Sama, which translates to “Cooperative Education Unit.” These are Indonesian private schools officially licensed to deliver an international curriculum). While many use an LMS for learning, fewer rely on a dedicated school management system. As a result, critical workflows can remain manual. Importantly, James clarifies the difference between an LMS, an SMS, and an SIS layer. An LMS supports teaching and learning workflows. Meanwhile, an SMS runs operations like attendance, wellbeing, parent communication, events, and payments. Then, an SIS layer can connect systems without forcing a full replacement. Consequently, schools can reduce fragmentation and improve workflow reliability. Finance and payments emerge as a major pressure point. Schools often manage complex fee logic in spreadsheets. Unfortunately, one small change can trigger errors. In addition, many schools still depend on WhatsApp for parent communication. Because messages arrive constantly, teacher wellbeing can be impacted. The episode also explores safeguarding and reporting. James explains Indonesia’s TPPK mandate (TPPK stands for Tim Pencegahan dan Penanganan Kekerasan, which translates to Team for the Prevention and Handling of Violence) and why structured incident recording matters. Moreover, he shares why many rollouts fail. They’re treated as IT installs, not organisational change. Instead, James recommends phased implementation, clear ownership, and realistic priorities. If you’re a school leader reviewing systems, this episode offers a practical playbook. You’ll hear how to identify operational headaches, reduce risk, and build resilient school operations. Powered by: xuno.com.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jim Meskimen is the voice behind hundreds of beloved characters, and has a career most voice actors could only dream of! He chats with Rach and Eddie about his fascinating career, the power of observation, and his tips on how students can grow their skills.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andre Casson joins Around the School Table (xuno.com.au/podcasts) for an audio conversation with host Steve Davis. Andre is the Headmaster of Brisbane Boys’ College (bbc.qld.edu.au), and he brings a science teacher’s lens to leadership. Moreover, his experience spans Australia, the UK, and international schools in Asia. Firstly, Andre reflects on preparation and opportunity. He shares how unexpected doors can open in education. However, he also explains why readiness matters most. In addition, he encourages teachers to embrace growth and cultural learning when working abroad. The discussion then turns to boys’ learning and school design. Andre explains why many boys need movement to think well. Therefore, learning spaces at Brisbane Boys’ College are designed for collaboration and flexibility. For example, breakout areas support group work and active tasks. He also shares a simple lesson on states of matter, using physical movement to build understanding. Importantly, Andre highlights the value of sport and physical activity. Brisbane Boys’ College continues physical education into Years 11 and 12. As a result, students keep building teamwork, resilience, and self-control. Meanwhile, co-curricular programs create more ways to belong and thrive. Relationships sit at the centre of Andre’s approach. He explains why authenticity matters with boys. Additionally, he outlines how staff are supported to build trust beyond the classroom. That includes coaching, presence, and everyday interest in students’ lives. The episode also explores inclusivity and respectful relationships. Andre describes a clear, structured curriculum that teaches consent and safe behaviours from the early years. Furthermore, he explains how culture is shaped through consistent modelling and correction. Finally, Andre breaks down the 6:1 positive-to-negative feedback ratio. He links it to research and daily practice. In particular, he shares how positive calls home can reinforce character. Over time, this approach supports “gentlemen of honour” through decency, accountability, and healthy vulnerability. Powered by: xuno.com.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Around the School Table (xuno.com.au/podcasts) host Steve Davis is joined by Dr Jenny Donovan, CEO of the Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO) (www.edresearch.edu.au), Australia’s national evidence body for education. Together, they unpack why nine education ministers backed a shared “national evidence institute” approach. Moreover, they explore how AERO turns research into practical guidance for schools. Importantly, the focus stays on what improves learning, not just what sounds appealing. Jenny explains why outcomes did not always match investment after the Gonski reforms. However, she also highlights what changed with the later focus on how funding is used. As a result, the conversation centres on teaching practice as the key lever. It also challenges the idea that money alone lifts results. The episode then dives into initial teacher education reform. First, Jenny outlines four core areas every graduate should master. These include cognitive science, explicit instruction, classroom management, and responsive teaching. Consequently, the goal is classroom-ready teachers with consistent foundations nationwide. Next, Steve and Jenny explore what explicit instruction looks like in practice. For example, lessons are sequenced to reduce cognitive overload. Then, students practise with guidance before working independently. In addition, classroom routines are taught clearly and reinforced consistently. Professional learning is also under the microscope. Notably, AERO tested “booster” sessions using rigorous trials. Surprisingly, the extra sessions did not improve outcomes. Therefore, the findings help systems invest in what truly sticks. Finally, the discussion turns to equity, disability, and First Nations education. AERO is examining concentrated disadvantage and access to effective teaching. Meanwhile, a national survey on disability in classrooms is planned for 2026. There is also close attention on two-ways learning approaches, with benefits that may extend to all students. This episode offers grounded insights for teachers, leaders, and policymakers who want evidence that reduces guesswork and supports better learning. Powered by: xuno.com.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jim Meskimen is the voice behind hundreds of beloved characters, and has a career most voice actors could only dream of! Hechats with Rach and Eddie about his fascinating career, the power of observation, and his tips on how students can grow their skills.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Dr Annette Marner who has spent eight years documenting her ‘patch’, South Australia’s geologically extraordinary Southern Flinders ranges. With patience and respect for wildlife, and some very fancy camera gear, Annette captures in her book very up close and personal moments with the animals and birds of the region, and explains in beautiful prose the tumultuous geo-history of the region and why it contains such unique species. + Meet Eleanor Elliott Thomas, a former lawyer turned author, who’s written a darkly comic tale about a family fracturing over the best and worst of problems - a lotto win! Skeletons begin emerging from the family closet  as the three very mismatched Halloway siblings gather around their mother, rightful owner of the winning ticket, who lies in a coma.   GuestsAnnette Marner, author and photographer of “The Southern Flinders; A Celebration of Wildlife and Landscapes” Eleanor Elliott Thomas, author of “Do We Deserve This?” and also “The Opposite of Success”   Other books that get a mention: Annie Hauxwell author of the Catherine Berlin crime series “Sorrow and Bliss” by Meg Mason “Flying Hero Class” by Thomas Keneally “ Normal Women - 900 years of Making History” by Philippa Gregory   INSTAGRAM @text_publishing@eleanorelliottthomasSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ali Lopez and Eddie team up to coach Rachel on creating a demo. This episode is a masterclass for any aspiring voice actor wanting to make an impact with a powerful demo.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tamara Linke returns to talk about how breathing techniques can help your voice performance, warm up tips and gives us a AAVA update.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We powered through technical difficulties and wifi troubles to bring you a wrap up of 2025 and the finale of our first season of the pod! Thank you to everyone who read along, listened to or watched each episode, followed us on socials, or joined us for one of our live book clubs. We appreciate all your support and hope to see you again next year for season two!  Also, apologies for how terrible we were at audibly naming all of the things we were talking about! All the books and movies we covered are listed below in the order we mentioned them.   MENTIONS 📚 BOOKS: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen; Emma of 83rd Street, Elizabeth of East Hampton & Anne of Avenue A by Audrey Bellezza & Emily Harding; Side Chick Nation by Aya de Leon; Playing Nice was Getting Me Nowhere by Alex Cothren; Salvage by Jennifer Mills; Beautiful Bastard by Christina Lauren; Love Unleashed by Melanie Saward; In Spite of You by Patrick Lenton; Dancer for the Dance by Andrew Holleran; Seven Brides for Beau McBride by Amy Barry; An Academic Affair by Jodi McAlister; Conflict and Colonialism in 21st Century Romantic Historical Fiction edited by Hsu-Ming Teo & Poloma Fresna-Calleja; The World Was Whole by Fiona Wright; Plastic Budgie by Olivia De Zilva; Feast While You Can by Mikaella Clements & Onjuli Datta; Three Holidays and a Wedding by Uzma Jalaluddin & Marissa Stapley 🎬 MOVIES: Pride and Prejudice (2005); Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (1954)   LINKS: Watch the full episode on YouTube: @AmyAndBookclub Follow the Amy & Podcast on IG: @amyandbookclub  Follow the Amy & Podcast on TikTok: @amyandbookclub Join the Amy & Bookclub: Amy & Bookclub  Follow Amy Matthews on IG: @amymatthewsauthor  Follow Amy Barry on IG: @amybarryauthor Our theme music is by Mass Wisteria. Stream their single "Same Old" here.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former journalist, Michael Brissenden, brings insider knowledge and a sharp world view to the crime and thriller genre. “Dust” goes into that now familiar territory, the dark underbelly of rural Australia, to create a gripping story that begins with a dry lake giving up its secrets. And who knew that celebrated spy thriller author Mick Herron is also a poet? Our regular reviewer, Annie Warburton, explores the life of the author of “Slow Horses”. She says his expressive, poetic style makes reading him a much more rewarding experience than watching the current TV series.   GuestsMichael Brissenden, author of “Dust” Annie Warburton reviews the writing of Mick Herron   Other books that get a mention: Thursday Murder Club Series - Richard Osman The Every - Dave Eggers Orbital - Samantha Harvey Plain Life - Antonia Pont Sapiens - A Brief History of Humankind - Yuval Noah Harari   INSTAGRAM @m_brisso Annie Warburton – Creative and Travel WritingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Around the School Table (xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis is joined by Shanti Clements, Principal of Seven Hills West Public School (sevenhillw-p.schools.nsw.gov.au), for the final interview of 2025. From the outset, Shanti shares a simple mission with real weight: growing great human beings every day. With more than 30 years in education and a PhD in educational leadership, Shanti blends research with lived experience. Importantly, she leads within one of Western Sydney’s most culturally diverse school communities. As a result, the school’s purpose is shaped by both Eastern and Western perspectives on learning, leadership, and belonging. Shanti explains how the school embedded the Leader in Me (leaderinme.com) approach in 2020. Then, she unpacks how the Seven Habits became practical, everyday habits for students and staff. For example, students are placed at the centre of learning decisions. Instead of being passive recipients, they co-design, co-construct, and reflect on what helps learning stick. Next, Shanti describes the impact of student leadership through the SRC. Students run learning walks each term. They focus on the student learning experience. They also interview teachers and provide feedback on engagement. Additionally, they redesigned school signage to align behaviour expectations with the Seven Habits. Wellbeing is treated as visible data, not guesswork. So, Shanti outlines how Life Skills Go (lifeskillsgroup.com.au) daily check-ins helped the school notice what students “walk in with”. Later in the day, the data often shifted positively. That change highlighted school as a place of safety and regulation. Furthermore, Shanti links wellbeing supports to practical strategies, including breakfast club, which lifts attendance. The conversation also turns to staff culture. Shanti supports early career teachers with coaching and leadership pathways. Moreover, she invests in staff wellbeing through flourish and courageous culture work. Finally, Shanti reflects on wisdom, service leadership, and lifelong growth. The result is a powerful reminder that schools shape far more than academic outcomes. Powered by: xuno.com.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Secretary of the Australian Association for Voice Artists (AAVA) Cecelia Ramsdale is a powerhouse in the Australian voice industry. This woman literally does it all. Cecelia talks about her experience in animation, audiobooks, podcasting and commercials and has a realistic, natural way of approaching the voice over industry. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Around the School Table (xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis is joined by James Wright, a physics teacher and Digital Innovation Lead at Garden International School (gardenschool.edu.my) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The school is home to around 50 nationalities. It also supports a thriving, multilingual community. After 12 years in Malaysia, James on what changes when you teach internationally. Yet, he also shares what stays the same. Students are still students, wherever you teach. However, expectations around grades can vary wildly. So, the conversation turns to assessment and reporting. Parents may be familiar with GCSE grades, IB scores, GPA, or Australian systems. Because of that, a single letter grade can create confusion. It can also create anxiety. Therefore, James explains why visual reporting can build clarity fast. He breaks down how graphical reporting helps families understand progress at a glance. For example, a simple bar or curve can show “where your child is” right now. It can also show “where we expect them to be”. Meanwhile, teachers still get the numbers when they need detail. The discussion also explores technology choices in schools. James contrasts “school-in-a-box” platforms with flexible tools. In particular, he explains why Accelerus stands out for reporting. It is curriculum agnostic. It is also highly customisable. As a result, schools can shape reports around their own language and processes. Importantly, James talks about leading change without overwhelm. First, he starts with a clear shared vision. Then, he involves staff, parents, and administration early. Also, he looks for the people most likely to challenge the plan. Those voices are treated as valuable. Because of that, issues are spotted sooner. Finally, the episode tackles data sovereignty and APIs. James argues that schools should be able to move data in and out easily. That flexibility supports long-term strategy. It also builds trust. Powered by: xuno.com.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Around the School Table (www.xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis is joined by founding principal Blayne Wallis. Together they explore what it takes to open a supported inclusion school in Melbourne’s west. Mindalk Primary School (www.facebook.com/mindalkprimaryschool) is preparing to welcome its first students in January 2026. During the conversation, Blayne explains how an almost accidental start in teaching became a deep commitment to inclusive leadership. Their journey from classroom teacher in Ballarat to leader across western Melbourne shows how quiet confidence can power lasting change. Early in the episode, listeners hear how childhood experiences shaped Blayne’s belief in seeing every child. As a quiet student who often felt invisible, they remember wishing for a teacher who noticed the wallpaper kids. Because of that, Blayne Wallis now pays close attention to students who slip under the radar. Instead of accepting silence as compliance, they ask what might be missing from the learning environment. This perspective underpins their approach to wellbeing, curriculum and building trust with families. Leadership also features strongly in this conversation. After years serving schools across Melbourne’s west, Blayne values grounded, community focused practice. However, they also encourage teachers not to stay in one place for too long. Moving between schools, they argue, stretches skills and broadens understanding of the wider system. As a result, leaders can support staff to grow beyond the walls of a single campus. For emerging leaders, Blayne offers practical advice on noticing potential in colleagues who may be quiet but highly capable. Mindalk Primary School itself is designed as a supported inclusion school. In the episode, listeners hear how flexible classrooms, thoughtful transitions and clear policies all work together. Importantly, the school motto and values were considered even before staff were hired. Additionally, Blayne describes the play based uniform, with darker colours chosen to support active learning and reduce stress for families. Rather than asking children to protect pristine outfits, the school expects play, movement and occasional grass stains. As opening day approaches, the countdown to 27 January 2026 brings both excitement and reflection. During the interview, Blayne outlines the challenge of being the only staff member in the early months. Yet that quiet period allowed space to shape policies, refine values and plan for inclusive practices. When recruitment began, they focused on hiring teachers who talk about students and learning before everything else. By hiring hard, Blayne believes the school will work easier, with a team aligned to purpose from day one. Throughout the episode, listeners gain practical ideas for nurturing inclusive cultures in any school setting. From uniform choices to multi tiered support systems, every decision is linked back to student needs. For principals, teachers and aspiring leaders, this conversation with Blayne Wallis offers both reassurance and challenge. Ultimately, Mindalk Primary School is presented as a place where every child is seen, supported and encouraged to thrive. Powered by: xuno.com.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen Crockford has spent 55 years in education, leading change and lifting expectations in Melbourne’s northwest. In this episode of Around the School Table (www.xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis talks with Stephen about his long career and his final weeks as principal of St Albans Meadows Primary School (www.samps.vic.edu.au). Together, they trace his journey from classroom teacher to community leader, shaped by humility, consistency, and a deep belief in children’s potential. The conversation offers a rare long view of how one principal can help transform a school over decades. It also reveals how culture, not quick fixes, keeps improvement alive. Rather than start with test scores, Stephen focused first on joy, belonging, and pride. Sport became a powerful lever to get students turning up, trying hard, and seeing themselves as part of something bigger. Performing arts followed, with concerts, choirs, bands, and dance groups reshaping how the community saw the school. As a result, students who once felt behind began to stand tall on stage and on the field. Then explicit teaching and careful curriculum work ensured that high expectations in literacy and numeracy matched the growing confidence. Technology was never a gimmick for Stephen. Instead, he backed a one-to-one laptop model in a low socio-economic context, using leasing and clear educational purpose to make devices accessible. At the same time, he kept pen and paper, rich experiences, and front-loaded vocabulary at the centre of learning. Behind the scenes, he built a leadership “pyramid”, with emerging and emerging-emerging leaders always ready to step up. Consequently, the school now has deep curriculum expertise and a strong bench of future principals. Listeners will hear practical insights on building culture through consistency, calmness, and respect. They will also discover how a free parent gym, kitchen garden and clubs for chess, Lego, sport, writing and more help families feel welcome without turning parents into unpaid teachers. Whether you are a new principal, an aspiring leader, or a classroom teacher, this episode with Stephen Crockford will spark reflection on legacy, resilience, and what it means to stay a “teacher first”. Powered by: xuno.com.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cath and Annie take a deep dive into the brilliant, celebrated and mysterious life of Elizabeth Harrower, author of the 1960s Australian classic “The Watch Tower”. Cath first reviews Harrower’s most celebrated work and then Annie speaks to Harrower’s biographer, Susan Wyndham, about the enigmatic novelist's past to better understand the woman, her times, and why the career of this impressive writer of deep psychological dramas ended so suddenly. GuestsSusan Wyndham, author of “The Woman in the Watchtower” Other books that get a mention: “Half of a Yellow Sun” by Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie   “A Frightfully English Execution” by Shamini Flint “Murder on North Terrace” and “The Death of Dora Black” by Lainie Anderson “What We Can Know” by Ian McEwen INSTAGRAM @wyndhamsusan1@newsouthpublishingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're celebrating Christmas early with this month's book club pick: Three Holidays and A Wedding by Uzma Jalaluddin & Marissa Stapley, as recommended to us by our local Christmas Romance expert (the only tick of approval we need!). Join us as we discuss the holiday season and share everything about this small-town novel that made us fall back in love with festivities, family and friendship.   Watch the full episode on YouTube: @AmyAndBookclub Follow the Amy & Podcast on IG: @amyandbookclub  Join the Amy & Bookclub: Amy & Bookclub  Follow Amy Matthews on IG: @amymatthewsauthor  Follow Amy Barry on IG: @amybarryauthor Our theme music is by Mass Wisteria. Stream their single "Same Old" here.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Around the School Table (www.xuno.com.au/podcasts), Lisa Burt joins host Steve Davis to explore how inclusive leadership reshapes learning within a small school setting. As principal of Knox Central Primary School (www.knoxcentral.vic.edu.au), she leads a school community of 74 students and demonstrates how relationships, predictability and calm environments support every learner. From the outset, Lisa explains how her move from a large suburban school to Knox Central changed her approach to leadership. With fewer staff layers, she is often the person who responds when challenges arise. However, this close connection means families and students see her as approachable and available. Her daily walk through each classroom builds trust and reinforces a strong sense of community. Because Lisa also teaches PE, students see her as both principal and active participant in school life. This relatability helps families who previously felt uncertain about school to re-engage with confidence. Her visible presence also supports staff wellbeing, as teachers know she understands the pressures of the classroom. The discussion turns to inclusive classrooms, where predictable routines and structured spaces help students, especially those with autism, feel secure. Daily schedules, quiet zones and Schoolwide Positive Behaviours create a consistent and supportive learning environment. Literacy improvement is another key focus. After discovering gaps in early reading skills, the school adopted explicit phonics instruction and tools like DIBELS. As a result, students develop phonemic awareness and reading confidence, while teachers gain clearer data to guide instruction. Technology also supports personalised learning at Knox Central. Google Classroom, Mathletics and Reading Eggs allow teachers to tailor tasks and help students practise skills beyond school hours. Finally, Lisa reflects on funding, perception and the unique strengths of boutique schools. She highlights the importance of reframing “small schools” as environments rich in connection, opportunity and individual support. This episode offers practical ideas for leaders and teachers seeking to strengthen inclusion and rethink what small schools can achieve. Powered by: xuno.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Public speaking coaches Sanja and Tom Hendrick from Talent Academy chat with Rachel and Eddie. Together they take a look at ways to help performance anxiety, and discuss mindset changes to help with auditioning.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.