Around the School Table

In this episode of Around the School Table (xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis is joined by Kerry Williams Director Teaching and Learning at SPELD SA Inc (speldsa.org.au), to unpack one of Australia’s most pressing education challenges. Together, they explore how literacy instruction has evolved and why evidence-based practice is now gaining traction across schools. Kerry shares her journey from classroom teacher to literacy leader. As a result, she brings a unique perspective shaped by years of supporting educators and students with learning difficulties. Moreover, she explains how organisations like SPELD SA bridge the gap between research and classroom practice. The conversation highlights the shift away from outdated “wait to fail” models. Instead, Kerry explains how tools like DIBELS, linked to Student Maps (xuno.com.au/student-maps), enable early identification of struggling readers. Consequently, teachers can intervene sooner with targeted, effective strategies. She also outlines the five key components of reading, showing how each plays a vital role in building confident, capable learners. In addition, the episode explores the rise of structured literacy and synthetic phonics in Australian classrooms. While progress is evident, Kerry notes that misconceptions still persist. For example, outdated practices and myths about dyslexia continue to influence teaching approaches. Therefore, ongoing professional learning remains essential. Kerryalso addresses the importance of early intervention. She emphasises that support should focus on student need rather than diagnosis. As she explains, increased practice and targeted instruction often deliver the strongest outcomes. Furthermore, she highlights the equity challenges families face when accessing assessments and support. The discussion also reinforces the importance of balancing foundational skills with a love of reading. Once decoding is mastered, students can fully engage with rich literature and expand their vocabulary. As a result, both skill and curiosity are nurtured together. This episode offers practical insights for educators committed to improving literacy outcomes. Ultimately, it reinforces that when evidence meets action, every student has a stronger chance to succeed. Powered by: xuno.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

In this episode of Around the School Table (www.xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis is joined by Dylan Sulzer, founder of Not Just Teacher Education (www.notjustateachereducation.com), to explore how Dylan’s unique journey—from Port Lincoln to the Northern Territory and even mustering cattle—has shaped his deep understanding of emotional intelligence in education. Dylan brings practical tools and insights to help teachers and students navigate tricky behaviour, build emotional regulation, and foster a positive classroom culture. He reframes defiance as a bid for independence and examines the balance between happiness and purpose, offering educators a fresh way to connect, support and empower young people both inside and outside the classroom. Throughout the episode, Dylan explains the five domains of emotional intelligence — self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy and relational communication — and shows how educators can apply them in the real world. He shares simple, applicable strategies such as breathing techniques and naming tasks to re-engage teachers’ thinking brains in stressful moments.Furthermore, Dylan’s student-brand program demonstrates how young people can identify their character strengths, develop a sense of identity and shift from external rewards to intrinsic motivation. The conversation also touches on the role of choice in managing student independence, why banning social media might be a band-aid solution, and the importance of being more impressive in person than online. This episode is ideal for teachers, school leaders and anyone interested in shaping classroom culture with emotional intelligence at the heart. Powered by: xuno.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Around the School Table (xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis is joined by Tim Bullard, CEO of the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) (aitsl.edu.au), to explore the state of the teaching profession across Australia. With more than half a million registered teachers, Tim shares how the latest Australian Teacher Workforce Survey is helping policymakers, educators, and communities understand the evolving challenges and opportunities shaping schools today. The conversation uncovers what the data reveals about teacher well-being, retention, and professional growth, and how education systems can better support teachers through every career stage. Tim discusses the importance of recognising teaching as a human endeavour, one grounded in connection, trust, and lifelong learning. He also highlights how returning teachers bring valuable life experience back into classrooms, enriching student learning and strengthening school communities. Steve and Tim explore how AI can reduce teacher workload without losing the essential human connection that defines effective teaching. From workload management and flexible career pathways to national initiatives like the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement, the discussion offers a clear-eyed look at how evidence-based policy and innovation can improve outcomes for both teachers and students. As World Teachers’ Day approaches, Tim shares why celebrating educators year-round is essential to building a culture of trust, respect, and appreciation across the nation. This episode is a timely reminder of how teachers’ voices and data-driven insights can shape the future of Australian education. Powered by: xuno.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Associate Professor Lisa McKay-Brown from Faculty of Education at the University of Melbourne (education.unimelb.edu.au) joins host Steve Davis on Around the School Table (xuno.com.au/podcast) for a practical, compassionate look at school avoidance. This audio episode explores why attendance challenges are rarely a simple choice, and how schools can respond with care, clarity, and data-informed action. As Associate Dean of Diversity and Inclusion, Lisa offers grounded strategies that teachers and leaders can apply straight away. First, the conversation addresses common myths about “wagging” and explains the differences between avoidance, truancy, withdrawal, and exclusion. Then, we consider early warning signs. For example, small shifts like late arrivals, early departures, or missed periods can signal growing barriers. Consequently, routine checks of attendance patterns—especially in the 90–95% range—become essential. Moreover, listeners hear how data systems such as Xuno help staff spot patterns quickly and start supportive conversations with families. Importantly, Lisa highlights neuro-affirming practice. Clear routines, predictable expectations, and strong adult connections help neurodivergent students; in fact, they benefit everyone. Furthermore, flexible regulation supports—like planned breaks or headphones for focus—can reduce anxiety and increase engagement. Yet schools cannot carry the load alone. Therefore, respectful partnerships with families and allied professionals are vital. We also step into multi-tiered systems of support. Lisa explains how MTSS for attendance builds universal, targeted, and intensive responses over time. In addition, she reflects on international collaborations and OECD insights linking belonging, safety, and achievement. As a result, listeners gain a broader perspective on what works here in Australia and abroad. Finally, the episode calls for national leadership. A coordinated plan would amplify local innovations, reduce duplication, and elevate voices that are often missed. Teachers, leaders, and system thinkers will find actionable ideas, thoughtful nuance, and renewed confidence to tackle attendance with empathy and evidence. Powered by: xuno.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Deputy Principal - Education Support, Brent Passchier joins Around the School Table (xuno.com.au/podcasts) to unpack a practical blueprint for inclusive education at Atwell College (atwellcollege.wa.edu.au) in Western Australia. From sensory rooms and hydrotherapy to music programmes and smart use of technology, he explains how schools can widen access without always adding more staff. The conversation begins with a mindset shift. Instead of “more hands”, Atwell focuses on “valued hands” and clear structures. Education assistants are redeployed to run targeted small-group sessions, which lightens teacher load and deepens impact. Moreover, the college embeds inclusion in the timetable: sensory engagement, literacy groups, and life skills are planned, not improvised. Atwell’s three-pathway model sits at the core. Centralised learning supports students with higher medical, communication, or sensory needs. The Universal pathway offers a home base for core subjects while encouraging electives in mainstream classes. Meanwhile, students working at typical academic rigour receive needs-based check-ins from inclusive EAs. Consequently, support is flexible and evidence-informed. Teacher workload is addressed head-on. Simple tech streamlines admin. Furthermore, QR-code workflows trigger assessment adjustments and scheduling, ensuring equitable access with minimal friction. General adjustments; preferential seating, scaffolded templates, and alternative outputs—are normalised. Therefore, teachers can focus on pedagogy, not paperwork. Peer culture also matters. Health students design expos with differentiated activities, quiet spaces, and AAC options. As a result, learners support learners, and inclusion becomes a whole-school habit. Brent returns to a central theme: value over volume. Programmes succeed when they prioritise what each student needs to participate and progress. For leaders and teachers, the takeaways are concrete. Start with what already works, then systemise it. Use data to direct FTE, not the other way round. In addition, make collaboration between mainstream and ed support staff routine. Ultimately, Brent  shows that inclusion by design can lift outcomes and reduce cognitive load—while keeping passion for teaching front and centre. Powered by: xuno.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rebecca Woolnough, Area Manager, Oceania at SMART Technologies (http://smarttech.com/en-au) joins Around the School Table (https://xuno.com.au/podcast) to unpack how right-fit edtech lifts learning, not workload. From “divisolation” to Universal Design for Learning, her lens is practical and hopeful. Crucially, she argues for outcomes before hardware. Consequently, schools avoid shiny-bauble mistakes and wasted spend. Drawing on classroom leadership, Rebecca explains why sharing devices boosts collaboration. Instead of one-to-one, she recommends 1:2 or 1:3 in many activities. Therefore, attention shifts from screens to problem-solving and dialogue. Moreover, students practise negotiation, creativity, and critical thinking together. Her formula for success is clear and repeatable. Start with exit outcomes, then pedagogy, then software, and finally hardware. Consequently, hardware is chosen to remove barriers, not add friction. Additionally, targeted professional learning ties everything to real curriculum goals. The discussion also explores neurodiversity-informed design with the University of Melbourne. As a result, classrooms feel inclusive without extra teacher admin. For example, multiple modes for responses lift agency and reduce anxiety. Furthermore, SMART tools make those tweaks fast and repeatable. Practical tips land throughout. Teachers can ink over PDFs or slides and keep the annotations. Then, share to students quickly through existing platforms. Meanwhile, the Smartboard Mini unlocks small-group collaboration and accessibility tweaks. AI is addressed with balance and care. Yes, it speeds planning and routine marking for teachers. However, human judgement and scaffolding remain central. In short, Rebecca champions tech that serves pedagogy and people. Listeners leave with a usable roadmap for smarter investment. Therefore, you can prioritise learning goals and choose tools that fit. Finally, Rebecca offers hope, clarity, and classroom-ready steps. As ever, host Steve Davis keeps the focus on real classrooms. Together, they surface mistakes leaders can avoid during rollouts. For instance, evaluate impact early and keep software platform-agnostic. Next, sequence capability building, not just device deliveries. Above all, remember why the investment exists in the first place. Powered by: xuno.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Around the School Table (xuno.com.au/podcast), host Steve Davis welcomes Danni Mattiazzo, assistant principal at Larrakeyah Primary School (larrakeyahprimary.com.au) in Darwin. Recently recognised with the Australian Education Award for Best Use of Technology, Danni Mattiazzo shares how her leadership has guided the development of IntelliLearn, a locally built platform that blends artificial intelligence with evidence-based assessment. Designed to give just the right level of support, IntelliLearn helps teachers differentiate learning while empowering students to take ownership of their progress. Throughout the discussion, Danni explains how her school integrates Bright Path to transform writing assessment into an accessible, student-friendly process. She highlights the importance of avoiding information overload, showing how carefully crafted feedback builds confidence instead of discouragement. From using data maps to track student growth to embedding collaborative “sprints” that target skill gaps, her approach demonstrates how data can be a powerful ally for teachers rather than an overwhelming burden. The episode also explores how school culture underpins innovation. Since 2016, Larrakeyah has championed the “Four C’s”- communication, collaboration, creative learning, and critical thinking - as a foundation for preparing students for the future. Danni illustrates how these values play out daily, whether through STEM challenges that link learning to the local environment or classroom practices that push students beyond comfort zones. This conversation offers a valuable perspective for educators navigating the balance between technology and human connection. By weaving together leadership, assessment, and culture, Danni Mattiazzo presents a clear vision of how schools in diverse, dynamic communities can embrace innovation while ensuring every child feels supported and proud of their achievements. Powered by: xuno.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Around the School Table (https://xuno.com.au/podcasts/), host Steve Davis is joined by Darcy Nolan, lower secondary subschool leader at Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School’s Bullengerook campus (https://wordpress.smrss.vic.edu.au/). The school is the setting for the acclaimed ABC documentary This is Going to Be Big, (https://iview.abc.net.au/show/this-is-going-to-be-big) which follows a group of neurodivergent teenagers as they take on the challenge of creating and performing an original high school musical inspired by Australian music icon John Farnham. Darcy shares how a “yes, and” philosophy helped transform the school’s music program from the humble confines of an automotive shed into a vibrant centre-stage experience. The conversation explores the courage and creativity needed to work under national TV cameras, the importance of student voice and agency, and the remarkable outcomes that emerge when young people are trusted with authentic opportunities. From the documentary’s origin, sparked by a student’s heartfelt declaration, “This is going to be big” - to the decision to weave John Farnham’s music through a time-travelling storyline, Darcy explains how music, drama, and history combined to empower students. He reflects on building resilience, fostering vulnerability, and adapting productions to suit the diverse needs of the school community. The discussion also delves into working alongside parents, production crews, and dedicated teaching staff to ensure dignity and respect for all students. With practical insights on encouraging participation, building confidence, and sustaining a positive school culture, this episode offers inspiration for educators and leaders alike. Whether you’re an education professional, a creative arts advocate, or simply curious about what’s possible when schools embrace bold projects, this conversation with Darcy Nolan is a compelling example of leadership, collaboration, and the transformative power of performance. Powered by: xuno.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.