Peter Howes: Rethinking leadership, building trust and authentic community engagement.

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.