The Art of Teaching

Today it is my great pleasure to share a snippet of a conversation that I recently had with Ian Timbrell. He is a former teacher who now spends his time ensuring that no student has to go through the challenges that he faced at school. We all want schools to be places where students are seen and valued and we all want schools that are more diverse and inclusive for all people. I won’t give too much away here, but I encourage you to listen, really listen, as he shares his journey. He is incredibly brave and it was wonderful to speak with him. Please take the time to listen to the whole conversation - the link is below:    https://theartofteaching.podbean.com/e/ian-timbrell-his-mission-to-create-more-inclusive-schools-the-power-of-diversity-and-his-experience-at-school/ You can connect with me here:  🖐️ About 💻 Podcast Website Connect: Facebook Twitter Linkedin     

It was a delight to speak again with Amy Green. This is our second interview and I think that you will enjoy it. For those that are not aware Amy is the founder of The Wellness Strategy, a published author, speaker, facilitator, and coach, and a leader in improving workplace culture and wellbeing in schools and organisations.  As a past teacher and school leader, Amy is determined to change the way we view well-being to support our everyday and workplace needs. With a background in teaching and leadership and having studied human behaviour and positive psychology, Amy brings to the wellbeing space a fresh approach to what can be a sensitive topic.  I hope that you enjoy this chat with the brilliant Amy Green You can connect with me here:  🖐️ About 💻 Podcast Website Connect: Facebook Twitter Linkedin 

Today, I have the pleasure of sharing the second part of a conversation with the amazing Stephanie McConnell, the founding  Principal of Lindfield Learning Village. She is the founder of Lindfield Learning Village. In this second part of our conversation, we deeply explored curriculum mapping, professional learning and leadership development.  We talked about why we should always assume best intent, why we must reimagine leadership and how to create a village with low floors, wide walls and high ceilings.  I am in awe of her kindness, generosity and openness.  I hope you get as much out of this discussion as I did. Here is the first conversation that I had with her:  Stephanie McConnell: Lindfield Learning Village, changing educational landscapes and why we must question everything. 

Up next is a conversation with Jen Buchanan, the proud Principal of Think Global School, the world's first travelling high school, where students study in eight countries throughout their two years, experiencing truly global, experiential education. With extensive experience leading innovation across international progressive schools and organisations, including Green School in Bali and as Director of Engagement with Future Anything, Jen has dedicated her career to reimagining what's possible in education. I previously met Jen when she was convenor of the Future Schools Alliance, working with school leaders across Australia and globally to co-design learning environments that unlock student agency and creative potential. It has been a full circle for Jen, as she shares with us her adventure from across the globe.      

In today’s episode, we explore Elevated Conversations, Dr Simon Breakspear’s new book that helps educators turn meetings from weary talk into purposeful dialogue. Drawing on years of work with schools worldwide, Simon shares seven practical tools designed to spark fresh thinking, deepen connections, and make the most of limited collaborative time. It’s a playbook for lifting the quality of our professional conversations and lightening the load for busy educators.   🎧 Listen here: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-art-of-teaching/id1552506400 Simon's resources:  📘 https://simonbreakspear.com/elevatedconversations-book/

Today I’m joined by Michael, an experienced educational leader with more than two decades working across the primary, secondary and adult education sectors. His career has been shaped by a passion for coaching, digital technology, and the Performing Arts, where he’s made a real impact on both teaching and leadership. Michael is currently the Deputy Principal at John Paul College in Frankston, Victoria, where he brings together his deep expertise and his commitment to helping teachers and students thrive.

Today I’m joined by Jamie Gerlach, an educator and leader who believes in the power of deep learning to build human agency and sees access to rigorous play as a basic right for all. For over a decade, he has designed and led professional learning in embodied literacy, 4C learning and school transformation, working with teachers and leaders across Australia and internationally. Jamie has also lectured at the University of Sydney and spoken at national conferences. In this conversation, we explore his philosophy, passion and practical insights for reimagining education.

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr Ange Rogers, a teacher, numeracy leader, consultant and researcher whose work has helped countless primary teachers feel more confident in the maths classroom. With more than twenty years of experience across teaching, coaching, and research, Ange has a real gift for turning evidence into simple, practical strategies that work. Her passion lies in building teacher confidence, improving number sense, and breaking down those common misconceptions that can so easily trip students up. Ange’s down-to-earth approach means everything she shares is classroom-ready, realistic, and focused on what makes the biggest difference for students. Whether you’re a teacher wanting new ways to strengthen your numeracy practice or a leader looking to support your staff, this conversation is full of insights, routines, and encouragement that will help maths click.

Today on the podcast, I’m joined by Brendan, a proud public education principal with deep roots in his community. Brendan now leads in the very place he once attended as a student, driven by a passion to expand opportunities for rural and remote students. His journey began early, when he revitalised the Riverina Industrial Arts Network to strengthen skills teaching across the region. He continues to champion equity, opportunity, and strong staff support, making a real difference in the lives of young people and the communities they grow up in.

Today, I'm joined by Emma, Executive Director, Strategic Priorities at the NSW Department of Education and a proudly accredited Lead Teacher. With a career shaped by a deep commitment to educational excellence, Emma has held a range of influential leadership roles at both the school and system levels. She played a key role in founding the HALT Association NSW and now returns as its President, continuing to advocate for the recognition and celebration of teaching expertise across the state. In our conversation, we’ll explore what it means to lead with purpose, how accreditation can elevate teaching practice, and why teacher voice matters more than ever in shaping the future of education.

Today, I’m joined by Melissa Kennedy - a passionate educator, leader, and storyteller. Melissa is Head of English at her school, a sessional university lecturer, and a presenter who brings depth and clarity to conversations about teaching, leadership, and curriculum. She’s also an accomplished author and was recently recognised as an ACEL New Voice in School Leadership for 2024. Her work lives at the intersection of language, leadership, and learning. Whether she’s guiding students through rich texts or mentoring colleagues, Melissa is all about empowering others to think critically, communicate clearly, and lead with purpose. This is a thoughtful and inspiring conversation. 

Reimagining the Future of Education Through Innovation with Ariam Mogos. Ariam leads the emerging tech portfolio at Stanford’s d.school, where she supports students and educators in designing with tools like AI, always with a keen eye on their ethical impact on people and the planet. Her work spans continents, from Africa and Asia to the US and Europe, collaborating with organisations like UNICEF, the World Bank, and the LEGO Foundation. A National Geographic Explorer, Ariam’s contributions to digital learning and inclusion have also been recognised by Mozilla and Fast Company

Andrea Downie is a systems leader, educator, and wellbeing expert who has worked collaboratively with hundreds of schools and organisations around the world on the application of wellbeing science, education redesign and systems leadership. Andrea is currently the Head of Wellbeing on the Board of Executive at British School Jakarta and also an Honorary Fellow of the Centre for Wellbeing Science at the University of Melbourne. Andrea was the co-founder of Project Thrive®. An organisation started in Australia focusing on systems and wellbeing science design, and has been invited to share her work as a keynote speaker at conferences across 5 continents. Previously, Andrea has taught and held leadership positions in primary education, consulted in secondary schools, taught and guest lectured in tertiary education, worked in TAFE education systems, across all sectors: state, private and independent. Her 18 years of experience in education spans the international system. Her experience, knowledge and action research has given her insight into some of education's greatest strengths and, importantly, opportunities for growth. She has implemented long term theory of change processes with well over 100 education leaders and designed, facilitated and hosted numerous overseas immersions with principals. Her work with leaders and schools has been published to provide school networks, local and state governments with key principles and processes for developing wellbeing and educational capabilities across communities. Her on-the-ground experience teaching in both primary schools and at a university level, along with previously held leadership positions in wellbeing, learning enhancement, technology, gifted education and as a deputy principal, has significantly shaped what she brings to education today. Andrea has also worked as a National Activation Manager in a Fortune 500 corporation and grew up in family businesses, giving her solid foundations and a strong understanding of the dynamic and complex nature of business operations. Andrea is passionate about making education the best and most desirable system in the world, where wellbeing, authentic learning and personal growth for all students and staff are at the forefront. Here are some of the wellbeing resources from British School Jakarta:  https://www.bsj.sch.id/wellbeing/defining-wellbeing#slide1

Today’s guest is Peter Howes, Principal of Ballina Coast High School and a passionate leader in public education. With more than three decades of experience across teaching, leadership, and community engagement, Peter brings a deep commitment to equity, innovation, and inclusion in every aspect of his work. As a seasoned school leader, he’s driven by a belief that every student — no matter their background or ability — deserves access to a high-quality, supportive education. His approach to leadership is grounded in strong relationships, community partnerships, and a vision of schools as places where both students and staff can grow, contribute, and thrive. In this conversation, we explore what it means to lead with purpose, how to build an inclusive school culture, and the role of public education in shaping stronger communities. Let’s get into it.

Today’s guest is Dr. Daniel T. Willingham a cognitive scientist, professor, and author whose work bridges the gap between research and the classroom. He’s a professor of psychology at the University of Virginia and the bestselling author of Why Don’t Students Like School?, a go-to book for educators looking to understand how students learn. Dr. Willingham has a rare gift for translating complex science into clear, practical insights. His research focuses on memory, reading, and critical thinking, and he writes regularly for The Washington Post and American Educator. In 2017, he was appointed by President Obama to the National Board for Education Sciences, recognising his contribution to evidence-based education. I’m thrilled to share this conversation with Dr. Willingham. Let’s get into it.

Today I’m joined by Ash Smith, co-founder of Rainbow Sky Creations — a passionate educator creating practical, inspiring resources for teachers. Through her work, Ash supports educators to feel more confident, organised, and empowered in their classrooms. Let’s jump into the conversation.  

Adam Larby, Head of Tudor House at The King’s School, is a passionate educator, thoughtful leader, and lifelong learner devoted to nurturing both character and curiosity. With years of leadership experience at Shore’s North Sydney Preparatory School and a deep commitment to faith, family, and community, Adam brings a rich blend of wisdom, vision, and heart to his role. It’s a conversation about leadership, legacy, and building a school culture where students and staff can truly thrive.

Next up on The Art of Teaching podcast is Stef Thom. With over 12 years in Catholic Education, Stef is a passionate, Highly Accomplished Lead Teacher known for building capacity in others. From leading in the classroom to advising the Minister for Education, Stef brings energy, faith, and purpose to everything she does. Let’s dive into her inspiring journey.  

Today on The Art of Teaching Podcast, I’m joined by Amelia Martin, Senior Education Advisor for Middle Years with Brisbane Catholic Education. Amelia works passionately to deliver on a powerful vision — that every child deserves to feel a sense of belonging, connection, and success at school. With experience across primary and secondary settings, Amelia has dedicated her career to supporting teachers and school leaders to create learning environments where young adolescents thrive — academically, socially, and emotionally. In this conversation, we explore what it really means to teach for belonging, how we can reimagine the middle years, and why relationships must sit at the heart of learning. 🎧 Listen here: The Art of Teaching Podcast

Sarah is a graduate of Wheelock College in Boston, Massachusetts, and has over 26 years of experience as an elementary school teacher in San Jose, California. She was a Cotsen Foundation "The Art of Teaching" Fellow and has worked closely with Dr. Jo Boaler on integrating Big Ideas into elementary mathematics. Sarah is featured in Dr. Boaler’s book Math-ish and will also appear in her forthcoming book on data education. A passionate educator, Sarah is deeply committed to a teaching philosophy rooted in a growth mindset, collaborative learning, and relationship-building.