Teacher Takeaway

In this episode, we speak with Glenn Forbes about instructional leadership and the practical ways school leaders can build clarity, consistency and impact in teaching and learning. Glenn shares insights on leading improvement, supporting teachers, and keeping student learning at the centre of every decision.

In this episode, we speak with Bronwyn Cochrane and Debbie Hoger, proud Aboriginal women, educators, business founders and co-founders of the TIPIAC x Riley Callie Resources National First Nations Education Conference. Together, they share their journeys in Aboriginal education and offer practical advice for educators wanting to embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives in authentic, meaningful and culturally safe ways. The conversation explores moving beyond tokenism, choosing appropriate resources, working with local community, embedding perspectives across the curriculum, and the importance of centring First Nations voices in education.TIPIAC – Bronwyn (Bonnie) Cochranehttps://tipiac.com https://www.facebook.com/TipiacEdu/https://www.instagram.com/edutipiac/https://www.pinterest.com.au/edutipiac/https://www.youtube.com/@tipiacfirstnationseducationhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bronwyn-cochrane/ Email: [email protected] Callie Resources – Deborah (Debbie) Hogerhttps://www.rileycallieresources.com.au/https://www.facebook.com/rileycallieresourceshttps://www.instagram.com/rileycallieresources/https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-hoger-b7b924142/ Email: [email protected] Indigenous Perspectives In the Australian Curriculum

In this episode, we speak with Kirby McDonald, a primary educator, numeracy leader and instructional coach from New South Wales, about what effective literacy instruction looks like in Years 5 and 6. Kirby unpacks the key elements of strong upper primary literacy blocks, including vocabulary, comprehension, background knowledge, explicit writing instruction and the impact of the Science of Reading. With a practical and research-informed lens, she shares how teachers and schools can make high-quality literacy teaching clear, consistent and achievable in real classrooms.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr Tessa Daffern, Founding Co-director of Literacy Education Solutions and Adjunct Associate Professor at La Trobe University, to explore the science of spelling instruction and assessment. Tessa shares her journey in education, unpacks her innovative instructional framework that helps students analyse words through multiple linguistic lenses, and discusses how teachers can effectively assess and teach spelling using evidence-based approaches. We also examine emerging trends from updated CoSTEY and CoST data, practical implications for classroom practice, and where educators can access high-quality resources to strengthen spelling outcomes for students.Recent PublicationsDaffern, T. (2025). Spelling Assessment and Instruction: An ‘ART PhOrM’. In M. Quinn & B. Healy (Eds), Teaching writers – from apprentice to expert (Chapter 4). PETAASnow, P., Serry, T., Buckingham, J., Lorraine, H., Dinham, S., Charles, E., Weadman, T., Swain, N., Hiland, S., &Daffern, T. (2025). National and international monitoring of student literacy and numeracy attainment: The case for rigorous macro and micro analysis. Australian Journal of Social Issues, 0, 1–5. https://doi.org/10.1002/ajs4.70049

In this episode, we speak with Toni Hatten-Roberts about the growing impact of the Science of Learning and what it means for classrooms, teachers and school leadership. Drawing on decades of experience across education, Toni shares practical insights into evidence-informed teaching, cognitive science and how schools can create the conditions for deep and lasting learning.

In this episode of the Teacher Takeaway Podcast, we sit down with internationally renowned educator and researcher Andy Hargreaves to explore the future of teaching, leadership and educational change. Andy shares powerful insights on teaching as “repair work”, supporting teacher wellbeing, creating cultures of innovation and why protecting the humanity of education has never mattered more. Drawing on decades of global experience and his upcoming book Changing Teachers for Challenging Times, this conversation is both a challenge and a message of hope for educators navigating an increasingly complex world.

In this episode, we are joined by Lyn Stone, an educational linguist, author, and founder of Lifelong Literacy, to unpack the science of spelling instruction and what effective literacy teaching looks like in today’s classrooms. Lyn explores common misconceptions about how children learn to spell, the importance of encoding and orthography, and why traditional spelling lists and Friday tests often fail to lead to lasting learning. Drawing on more than three decades of research, writing, and collaboration with educators worldwide, she shares practical strategies teachers can implement immediately to deepen students’ understanding of how words are built, remembered, and connected through the English language.

In this episode, we sit down with internationally recognised instructional coaching expert Jim Knight to explore what effective coaching looks like in real schools today. Jim shares practical insights into fast-track coaching, PEERS goals, video reflection, and the four key coaching conversations that can drive meaningful teacher growth without adding unnecessary workload. Whether you’re a teacher, instructional coach or school leader, this episode is packed with high-impact strategies to build a coaching culture that is supportive, practical and focused on improving student outcomes.

In this episode, we sit down with Cindy Valdez, founder of Teach to Learn, to explore her mission of empowering educators and transforming lives through global collaboration. Drawing on her work connecting Australian and Filipino teachers, Cindy shares how building teacher capacity creates lasting impact for students and communities. We also dive into her passion for inclusion, multilingual learners, and why supporting teachers is the most powerful lever for change in education.

In this episode, we speak with Amy Tasker, founder of Groove Nation, about her journey in education and her mission to make dance accessible, inclusive and impactful for every primary school classroom. Amy shares why dance is such a powerful tool for building confidence and connection, along with practical strategies teachers can use to embed it into everyday teaching without feeling overwhelmed. We also unpack common mistakes, what great practice looks like in action, and how educators can continue to grow their skills in the creative arts.

In this episode, Brendan Lee returns to unpack five powerful ideas that cut through the noise of teaching and focus on what truly works in the classroom. Together, we explore how clarity for novices, purposeful classroom dialogue, fluency, intentional discovery, and the use of data can transform student learning and teacher practice. Brendan shares practical, evidence-informed insights that help educators move from good intentions to consistent, high-impact instruction.

In this episode, we are joined by Stephanie Murphy, Director of the Victorian Lesson Plans project, to explore what it really takes to improve teaching and learning at scale. We unpack what makes a lesson truly effective, the role ready-made resources can play in strengthening curriculum and practice, and the common pitfalls schools need to avoid. Steph also shares practical strategies for leaders and teachers to adapt these resources well and use them as a driver for genuine, whole-school improvement.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr Simon Breakspear to unpack what “elevated conversations” really mean and why they matter more than ever in schools today. We explore where everyday conversations can go wrong, what great leaders do differently, and simple, practical shifts that can immediately improve the quality of dialogue across a school. Simon also shares how getting this right impacts student outcomes and what it could mean for the future of the profession if we truly lift the way we talk about teaching and learning.

In this episode, education writer Natalie Wexler joins us to explore why writing is not just a way to assess learning, but a powerful tool for thinking, knowledge building, and student understanding. We unpack the cognitive benefits of writing, including how retrieval practice and elaboration can be embedded through simple, manageable classroom strategies. Natalie also shares practical advice for teachers and school leaders on strengthening writing instruction across the curriculum and avoiding common pitfalls.

In this episode, we speak with astrophysicist and UNSW Professor of Practice Dr Lisa Harvey-Smith about her journey into science and her passion for STEM education in schools. Lisa shares insights from her time as Australia’s Women in STEM Ambassador and discusses the ongoing challenges around gender equity and student participation in STEM subjects. We also explore the Future You program and practical strategies teachers can use to create more inclusive, engaging STEM learning environments.

In this episode, Dylan Wiliam joins us for a frank, wide-ranging conversation about the real purpose of assessment and whether our systems are truly serving learning or simply feeding accountability. We explore feedback that actually changes what students do next, what responsive teaching looks like in practice, and how leaders can navigate the rise of AI without panic or posturing. It’s a thoughtful, challenging discussion about what must evolve in assessment, what should never change, and how we keep learning at the centre of it all.

In this episode, we’re joined by Jenny, a self-described “recovering Principal” and founder of Positively Beaming, who brings over 30 years of experience in education and a refreshingly honest perspective on leadership, burnout, and career choice. Drawing on her own journey and her book Teach, Lead or Leave, Jenny unpacks why so many educators feel stuck, the guilt that surrounds leaving, and how to tell the difference between a tough season and a role that no longer fits. We explore her Energy–Impact Matrix and the six possible pathways beyond “stay or go,” offering practical, values-led guidance for educators who want sustainable careers they can truly enjoy.

In this episode, we sit down with Lauren and Jason, co-founders of the Workplace Performance & Wellbeing Institute, to explore what healthy, sustainable school culture really looks like. Drawing on experience from frontline emergency services, education, and leadership, they unpack how culture shapes stress, trust, and performance every day, and share the early warning signs leaders shouldn’t ignore. The conversation offers practical starting points for rebuilding psychological safety, strengthening teams, and creating schools where both staff and students can thrive.

In this episode, we explore a modern, evidence-informed approach to behaviour education, unpacking the mindsets, structures and practical strategies that support positive behaviour in today’s classrooms. From behaviour curricula and learning environments to scripts, neurodiversity and individualised support planning, this conversation offers clear, actionable insights for educators at every stage of their journey.

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr Carl Hendrick to explore how the science of learning can meaningfully shape classroom practice. Carl shares his journey in education, breaks down what the science of learning really is (and why it matters), and explains how it informs effective instructional design. We dive into high-leverage strategies and practical ideas teachers can apply straight away, before hearing where to learn more about Carl’s ongoing work. A must-listen for educators wanting clarity, evidence, and impact in their teaching.

In this episode, we’re joined by Sue Larkey to discuss practical, neuro-affirming ways to support neurodivergent students in the classroom. Sue shares insights on classroom design, behaviour as communication, common early-year challenges, and how teachers and support staff can better support students with ASD, ADHD and co-occurring profiles.

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr Lyn Sharratt to reflect on her recent work and the thinking behind her forthcoming eighth book, Precision-in-Practice: The Voices of Evidence-Proven System and School Improvement. Lyn shares the style and intent of the book, key case studies, insights from the foreword and afterword, and offers practical advice for teachers and leaders on sustaining improvement without fatigue, staying the course, and focusing on the work that truly makes a difference, as well as what’s next and how to stay connected with her work.

In this episode on behaviour support, Claire English shares her journey in education and unpacks common misconceptions about behaviour and classroom management, exploring why so many teachers feel underprepared in this space. Together, we discuss practical strategies for addressing low-level behaviours, setting up for a strong start to the year, and where teachers can go next to deepen their understanding and confidence.

Alice Vigors, James Gray, Aaron Johnston and Bec West, the OG team, are back together for a reflective start to the year. They look back on 2025, share their start, repeat and delete for 2026, and offer practical recommendations for setting yourself up for a successful school year. The team also gives a sneak preview of some of the guests they’re excited to welcome in season six.

In this episode, we are joined by Peter Dewitt & Michael Nelson. If you would like more information about Peter and Michael and the work they do, please visit:⁠ https://instructionalleadershipcollective.com/our-team%2Four-story

In this episode, we are joined by Dr Jenny Donovan. If you would like more information about Jenny and the work she does, please visit:⁠ linkedin.com/in/jenny-donovan-28182a77?originalSubdomain=au

In this episode, we are joined by Sarah Asome. If you would like more information about Sarah and the work she does, please visit:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-asome/?originalSubdomain=au

In this episode, we are joined by Dr Nathaniel Swain. If you would like more information about Nathaniel and the work he does, please visit:⁠ https://www.nathanielswain.com/⁠⁠

In this episode, we are joined by Matt Pitman. If you would like more information about Matt and the work he does, please visit:⁠ ⁠https://www.mattpitman.com.au/

In this episode, we are joined by Tim Shanahan. If you would like more information about Tim and the work he does, please visit:⁠ https://www.shanahanonliteracy.com/

In this episode, we are joined by Jenni Goodwin. If you would like more information about Jenni and the work she does, please visit:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennigoodwin/?originalSubdomain=au

In this episode, we are joined by Andrew Murray. If you would like more information about Andrew and the work he does, please visit:⁠ https://luminaconsulting.co.nz/about/

In this episode, we are joined by Louise Dempsey. If you would like more information about Louise and the work she does, please visit: https://www.theliteracyplace.com/about

In this episode, we are joined by Jessica Colleu Terradas. If you would like more information about Jessica and the work she does, please visit: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicacolleu/?originalSubdomain=au

In this episode, we are joined by Megan Daley. If you would like more information about Megan and the work she does, please visit: https://www.megandaley.com.au/

In this episode, we are joined by Jamiela. If you would like more information about Jamiela and the work she does, please visit: https://theorganisedteachercollective.com/

In this episode, we are joined by Associate Professor Helen Adam. If you would like more information about Helen and the work she does, please visit: ⁠https://www.ecu.edu.au/schools/education/staff/profiles/associate-professors/associate-professor-helen-adam

In this episode, we are joined by Adam Vogit If you would like more information about Adam and the work he does, please visit: https://realschools.com.au/about/

In this episode, we are joined by Professor Pamela Snow. If you would like more information about Pamela and the work she does, please visit:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://au.linkedin.com/in/pamela-snow-0a0323230

In this episode, we are joined by Jessica Staines. If you would like more information about Jessica and the work she does, please visit:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://kooricurriculum.com/pages/about-jessica-staines-2023

In this episode, we are joined by Paul Matthews. If you would like more information about Paul and the work he does, please visit:⁠⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulmatthewsai/?originalSubdomain=au⁠⁠⁠

In this episode, we are joined by Dr Hannah Brown. If you would like more information about Hannah and the work she does, please visit:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://au.linkedin.com/in/hannah-brown-200867b5Here is the link to the education page of our website for the show notes: https://www.ruok.org.au/education We also have this blog post, which is focused on embedding the R U OK? message in your school community throughout the year: https://www.ruok.org.au/chit-chat-ruok-at-school

In this episode we are joined by Aimee Presnall from Well-Nest. You can follow her at https://www.linkedin.com/in/aimee-parkinson?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

In this episode, we are joined by Sally Rippin . If you would like more information about Sally’s work, please visit:⁠⁠ https://www.sallyrippin.com/

In this episode, we are joined by Jenni Donohoo and Glenn Forbes. If you would like more information about Jenni and Glen and the work they do, please visit:⁠⁠ https://www.acel.org.au/ACEL/ACELWEB/Active/Item_Detail.aspx?iProductCode=GE9781923412118&Category=TRView the show notes here: ⁠https://www.layingthefoundations.net/

In this episode, we are joined by James Dobson. If you would like more information about James and the work he does, please visit:⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jo-boaler-a480295a⁠View the show notes here: https://www.layingthefoundations.net/

In this episode, we are joined by Dr Jo Boaler. If you would like more information about Jo and the work she does, please visit:⁠⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jo-boaler-a480295aView the show notes here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://teachertakeawaypodcast.weebly.com/shownotes ⁠

In this episode, we are joined by Dr Amy Berry. If you would like more information about Amy and the work she does, please visit:⁠⁠ https://au.linkedin.com/in/dramyberryhttps://au.linkedin.com/in/dramyberryView the show notes here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://teachertakeawaypodcast.weebly.com/shownotes ⁠

In this episode, Sue Hiland returns to the podcast to zoom in on one deceptively simple instructional routine: Turn and Talk. Building on her previous discussion of fluency pairs, Sue unpacks the layers of Turn and Talk and explores how this foundational practice supports engagement, oral language, equity, formative assessment, and the development of academic English. The conversation moves beyond the surface of “talking to a partner” to consider classroom culture, cold calling, inclusion, task analysis, and what makes this a high-leverage instructional routine when embedded deeply in school culture. If you would like more information about Sue and the work she does, please visit:⁠⁠ ⁠https://au.linkedin.com/in/sue-hiland-211315232⁠View the show notes here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://teachertakeawaypodcast.weebly.com/shownotes ⁠

In this episode, we are joined by Bernii Godwin. If you would like more information about Berni and the work she does, please visit:⁠⁠ ⁠https://godwinconsulting.com.au/View the show notes here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://teachertakeawaypodcast.weebly.com/shownotes ⁠