Teacher Takeaway

Sir Steve Munby joins us to reflect on his journey from classroom teacher to international education leader and explore the power of imperfect leadership. We discuss why asking for help, recognising your limitations and building complementary teams can strengthen leadership while maintaining high expectations. Steve shares practical insights into building trust, making difficult decisions and protecting wellbeing while navigating the pressures of educational leadership.

In this episode, BTN presenter and proud Gomeroi man Jack Evans joins us to explore how his family’s teaching connections and his own school experiences shaped his passion for storytelling. We discuss making complex news accessible to young people, using humour to spark curiosity, and bringing First Nations perspectives into classrooms across Australia. From the BTN newsroom to youth theatre, Jack reflects on the power of creativity and representation to inspire the next generation.

In this episode we are joined by James Dobson to talk about intellectual preparation and how this supports high quality instruction in the classroom and improves student outcomes.You can connect with James at layingthefoundations.net 

In this episode, we are joined by the Hon. Prue Car MP for an important conversation about the power of public eduction in NSW and its future.Prue Car is the Deputy Premier of NSW, Minister for Education and Early Learning and Member for Western Sydney.You can find out more about Prue, her work and connect with her via her website https://www.pruecar.au/

In this episode we are joined by Professor Catherine Attard. She joins Bec to unpack effective mathematics instruction in the classroom and share her recent research around the use and impact of generative AI on effective teacher practice.Catherine Attard is a Professor in Mathematics Education and Deputy Director of the Centre for Educational Research at Western Sydney University.  She is also serving as the current Director and Board Chairperson for the Australian Association of Mathematics Teachers (AAMT). You can find out more information about the work of AAMT and read their recent papers at https://aamt.edu.au

In this episode we are joined by Ben Bowen who is the CEO of Indigenous Literacy Foundation. He shares insights into the work of the ILF in supporting literacy development in remote communities across Australia and practical ways teachers can support literacy development and Indigenous Languages in the classroom.You can find out more about the work of the Indigenous Literacy Foundation and access their literacy resources at https://www.ilf.org.au/

In this episode, Melissa-Jane Fogarty explores the powerful ways educators can explore Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander language, culture and identity through picture books.

In this episode, Dr Joanne Casey explores how understanding the social brain can transform the way educators lead, connect and build trust. She shares practical insights into how relationships, emotional safety and human connection influence team culture, collaboration and performance. This conversation offers valuable strategies for leaders seeking to create supportive environments where both staff and students can thrive.

This episode explores the often-overlooked world of middle leadership with Dr Kylie Lipscombe, unpacking why the role is fundamentally relational and what effective middle leaders actually do. We discuss the challenge of leading colleagues, navigating difficult conversations, and balancing relationships with accountability. Kylie also shares practical advice for middle leaders and the senior leaders who support them, including what to focus on from day one.

In this episode, Trent Ray explores the growing role of artificial intelligence in education and how it can support teaching and learning. The conversation also highlights digital safety and the importance of helping students use AI responsibly, ethically and safely.