Your School Journey

In this episode of Your School Journey, Mal Galer sits down with Hayden Whitworth (Be There Group) to explore how culture is really formed in schools and why leadership is about far more than titles or badges.Drawing on his experience working with organisations across Australia, Hayden unpacks the hidden “social contracts” that shape behaviour in every community. These are the unspoken rules that influence how students treat one another, how respect is given, and how culture is maintained. He challenges traditional ideas of school leadership, explaining why defining leaders by roles can actually disempower others, and why every student has the capacity to influence the environment around them.Together, they explore the difference between dominance and strength, the role of respect in bringing out the best in young people, and how students can be equipped with practical tools to step in when something isn’t right without escalating conflict. Hayden also shares simple but powerful strategies for parents, including how to help children navigate peer pressure, speak up with confidence, and build positive influence during the critical teenage years.This is a thoughtful and practical conversation for parents and educators who want to better understand how culture is shaped and how we can raise young people who lead with courage, character and respect in every space they enter.

In this episode of Your School Journey, Mal Galer sits down with Josiah College Design and Technology teacher Phil Murdoch — also host of The Tattooed Teacher podcast — to explore the value of design technology in today’s learning environment.With years of experience in the classroom, Phil unpacks how the subject has evolved beyond traditional woodwork into a dynamic space where creativity, problem-solving and real-world skills come together. From 3D printing and digital design to hands-on projects, design technology is equipping students with the tools to think, create and adapt.Together they explore why learning through doing matters, how failure plays a critical role in building confidence, and why these subjects are increasingly relevant for a wide range of future pathways — not just trades.This is a practical and insightful conversation for parents wanting to better understand how their child learns best — and why design technology is about far more than what students make. It’s about how they think, grow and prepare for the future.

In this episode of Your School Journey, Mal Galer sits down with Emmanuel College’s new Head of Senior School, Chris Henderson, to explore why student wellbeing has become central to modern education.With more than 18 years in schools, Chris reflects on how the focus has shifted from purely academic outcomes to something deeper — creating environments where students feel accepted, supported and known. Because without belonging, full potential is hard to reach.Together they unpack how pastoral care has evolved, why resilience and challenge still matter, and how sport, service and leadership build transferable skills that shape confident, capable young adults.This is a thoughtful conversation for parents navigating the senior years — and a reminder that education isn’t just about grades. It’s about forming character, building connection, and preparing students for life beyond school.Learn more: ⁠⁠⁠Emmanuel College⁠⁠⁠Have questions or feedback? Contact us at ⁠[email protected]

In this episode, Mal Galer is joined by Emma Tabacaru (Founder of Pippin Girl, educator, author and youth speaker) to explore the real pressures shaping young girls’ lives today — from body image and puberty to social media and identity.Emma draws on her extensive experience as a teacher, pastoral carer and youth presenter, and the work she does through Pippin Girl — a trusted movement producing honest, values-based guides and resources to help girls navigate puberty, friendships, the online world, relationships and self-worth with confidence and clarity. Together, they unpack how cultural messaging and digital comparison train young minds to prioritise appearance over wellbeing, why so many girls struggle with body dissatisfaction at increasingly younger ages, and how parents and schools can support healthy self-image and resilience. Emma shares practical insights on having age-appropriate conversations about bodies, boundaries, relationships and online influence — minus the awkwardness, and with real compassion. The discussion also highlights the value of creating spaces where girls feel heard, supported and equipped to think critically about the world around them. Emma offers actionable guidance for families and educators looking to champion authenticity, connection and courage in girls’ lives. This episode is a thoughtful, hopeful conversation about raising girls who know their worth, trust their bodies and step into life with purpose — rooted in the belief that honest guidance and informed support can change the narrative for the next generation.Learn more: ⁠⁠Emmanuel College⁠⁠Have questions or feedback? Contact us at [email protected]

In this episode, Mal Galer is joined by Andrew Tuppen (Lego Master and Head of Instrumental Worship and Events at Emmanuel College), to explore the powerful role music plays in a student’s school journey.Together, they unpack the many ways music shapes young people, from cognitive development and academic performance to emotional wellbeing, self-discipline, creativity and connection. Andrew shares his deeply personal journey into music, how it became a source of healing and purpose, and how those experiences continue to inform his approach to music education today. Drawing on years of classroom experience and international performance, he explains why music is a workout for the brain, how it supports learning across subjects like science and mathematics, and why schools are often the first and most important place students encounter music.The conversation also explores the social and emotional power of music, from the joy and belonging found in ensembles and choirs to the unique way music connects people across cultures and languages. Andrew reflects on Emmanuel College’s approach to building musicians from the ground up, the importance of high expectations and expert teachers, and how performance opportunities inspire younger students to imagine what they might become.They also discuss the vital role parents play in supporting musical learning at home, particularly the importance of commitment, perseverance, and helping children push through the challenging stages of practice, as well as practical advice for families whose schools may not offer strong music programs.This episode is a compelling reminder that music in schools is about far more than learning an instrument. It is about developing discipline, resilience, creativity and connection, and nurturing the whole person for life beyond the classroom.Learn more: ⁠Emmanuel College⁠Have questions or feedback? Contact us at ⁠[email protected]

In this episode of Your School Journey, host Mal Galer chats with Tom Cullen, Dean of Student Futures at Emmanuel College, about how education is evolving to prepare young people for a rapidly changing world.Tom shares how his role goes beyond traditional career advice to help students build purpose, adaptability, and confidence as they navigate diverse pathways from university and vocational training to gap years and global opportunities.They explore how parents can nurture curiosity, support their child’s growth, and guide them toward futures driven by passion and problem-solving rather than pressure or expectation.

In this episode of Your School Journey, Mal Galer sits down with Andrew Jessimer, Senior School Counsellor at Emmanuel College, to explore the Honour and Strength program, a mentoring initiative helping Year 9 and 10 boys navigate challenges around body image, social media, motivation, and self-worth.Andrew shares his journey as a counsellor, the pressures young men face, and how parents can support their sons through genuine connection, vulnerability, and encouragement.Practical, insightful, and full of hope, this conversation is for every parent wanting to see their boys thrive.

In this episode, Mal Galer is joined by Nick Collins (Director of Sport, Emmanuel College) and Lachie Purdie, Emmanuel College alumni and under-20 gold medalist decathlete, to explore the powerful role sport plays in a student’s school journey.Together, they dive into the many benefits of sport — from physical fitness and mental wellbeing to character building, resilience, and lifelong friendships. Nick shares insights on how sport helps students develop vital life skills like teamwork, time management, and motivation, while Lachie reflects on his own journey balancing elite sport and academics, and the importance of strong support networks.They also tackle how parents can best support both enthusiastic athletes and students who may not naturally gravitate toward sport, offering practical tips for helping children stay active, find their passion, and learn to thrive through the ups and downs of training and competition.This episode is an inspiring reminder that sport in school is about far more than games on the field — it’s about nurturing whole, healthy, and well-rounded young peopleLearn more: Emmanuel CollegeHave questions or feedback? Contact us at [email protected]

In this episode, Mal Galer is joined by Peter Robertson, Director of Studies at Emmanuel College. Together, they unpack how parents can best support their children as they transition from Year 9 into the crucial senior years of schooling.Peter shares his wealth of experience working with senior students, offering valuable insights on why Years 10, 11, and 12 are so unique — from starting to make decisions that impact post-school pathways to managing expectations around university, work, or gap years. The conversation touches on the importance of students choosing subjects they enjoy, the role of good study habits, and how parents can gradually shift responsibility to help their children build independence and resilience.Listeners will hear practical strategies for supporting study routines, managing natural consequences, and keeping the focus on deep learning rather than just results. Peter also highlights how to balance academics with wellbeing and social life, and how parents can encourage maturity by stepping back at the right moments.This is an encouraging and insightful discussion for any parent keen to help their child thrive through the senior years and beyond.Learn more: Emmanuel CollegeHave questions or feedback? Contact us a  [email protected]

In this episode, Mal Galer is joined by Brett Moller, Director of Knowledge Services and Head of Creative Industries at St Andrew’s Anglican College. Together, they explore the complex role of technology in education and family life. The conversation covers topics such as digital wellbeing, the different types of screen time, gaming, social media use, and how technology can empower students to create meaningful solutions.Brett also shares practical parenting insights, including how to have ongoing conversations with children about their technology use, the importance of empathy, and strategies for navigating mobile phones and social media at home. This is a thoughtful and practical discussion for any parent navigating the challenges of technology and raising children in a digital world.Learn more:⁠Emmanuel College⁠Have questions or feedback? Contact us at [email protected]

How do children learn to read and how can parents support that journey from the very beginning? In this episode, we’re joined by Jeremy Cook, Director of Learning and Teaching in Junior School and Carla Stanley, Director of Pastoral Care in Early Years to explore the foundational skills behind reading. From phonics and comprehension to fostering a love of books at home, we break down what literacy looks like in the early years.Learn more:Emmanuel CollegeHave questions or feedback? Contact us at [email protected]

In this episode, we sit down with Mitch Tattersall, Dean of Studies at Emmanuel College, to break down everything you need to know about high school diplomas, subject choices, and preparing for university pathways. Whether you’re a student making subject selections or a parent wanting to better understand the system, this episode provides clear and practical insights.Learn More:⁠⁠www.emmanuel.qld.edu.au⁠⁠Have questions or feedback?Contact us at [email protected]

In this episode, Dan Brown (Principal, Emmanuel College) reflects on his life-changing trip to the Northern Territory, and sharing how stepping outside their comfort zones helped students grow in resilience, empathy, and character. We explore the power of real-world experiences in shaping young people and why these moments matter beyond the classroom.Learn More:⁠www.emmanuel.qld.edu.au⁠Have questions or feedback?Contact us at [email protected]

In this episode, we sit down with Rachael Kelly (Dean of Year 7, Emmanuel College) and Marita Babic (Dean of Year 6, Emmanuel College) to explore the challenges and opportunities that come with this transition. From managing new expectations to fostering independence, we share practical advice to help your child feel confident and supported as they take this next step.Learn More:⁠www.emmanuel.qld.edu.au⁠Have questions or feedback?Contact us at [email protected]

What does a future-focused school look like? In this episode, we explore the evolving landscape of education with Dan Miller (Deputy Principal - Head of Senior School, Emmanuel College) and Dave Runge (Co-founder, Future Schools). We discuss student agency, engagement, and how schools can better prepare young people for a rapidly changing world. Learn More: www.emmanuel.qld.edu.au https://futureschools.education Have questions or feedback? Contact us at [email protected]