Around the School Table

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Around the School Table" brings together the many voices shaping primary and secondary education across Australia, from principals and teachers to education thought leaders and system innovators. Whether you're in the classroom, the staff room or the boardroom, this is your podcast to be informed, inspired and connected.  About Xuno  Xuno Suite is an all-in-one school management system for Australian K–12 schools. It simplifies administration, boosts communication, and supports student wellbeing. Core features include attendance, reporting, payments, incident tracking, and a parent app for real-time updates. Teachers can manage assessments, schedules, and contact families through the platform. Additional modules like Accelerus (advanced reporting) and Student Maps (learning analytics) offer deeper insights. Xuno complies with ACARA and ST4S standards, is locally supported, and trusted by over 500,000 users nationwide.  Website: https://xuno.com.au/  Email: info@xuno.com.au 

  1. Episode 29: Shanti Clements - Growing Great Human Beings Every Day - Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

    21/12/2025

    Episode 29: Shanti Clements - Growing Great Human Beings Every Day - Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

    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.

    38 min
  2. Episode 28: James Wright - Visual Reporting Across Cultures - Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

    14/12/2025

    Episode 28: James Wright - Visual Reporting Across Cultures - Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

    In this episode of Around the School Table (xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis is joined by James Wright, a physics teacher and Digital Innovation Lead at Garden International School (gardenschool.edu.my) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The school is home to around 50 nationalities. It also supports a thriving, multilingual community. After 12 years in Malaysia, James on what changes when you teach internationally. Yet, he also shares what stays the same. Students are still students, wherever you teach. However, expectations around grades can vary wildly. So, the conversation turns to assessment and reporting. Parents may be familiar with GCSE grades, IB scores, GPA, or Australian systems. Because of that, a single letter grade can create confusion. It can also create anxiety. Therefore, James explains why visual reporting can build clarity fast. He breaks down how graphical reporting helps families understand progress at a glance. For example, a simple bar or curve can show “where your child is” right now. It can also show “where we expect them to be”. Meanwhile, teachers still get the numbers when they need detail. The discussion also explores technology choices in schools. James contrasts “school-in-a-box” platforms with flexible tools. In particular, he explains why Accelerus stands out for reporting. It is curriculum agnostic. It is also highly customisable. As a result, schools can shape reports around their own language and processes. Importantly, James talks about leading change without overwhelm. First, he starts with a clear shared vision. Then, he involves staff, parents, and administration early. Also, he looks for the people most likely to challenge the plan. Those voices are treated as valuable. Because of that, issues are spotted sooner. Finally, the episode tackles data sovereignty and APIs. James argues that schools should be able to move data in and out easily. That flexibility supports long-term strategy. It also builds trust. Powered by: xuno.com.au. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    33 min
  3. Episode 27: Blayne Wallis - Building an Inclusive New School - Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

    07/12/2025

    Episode 27: Blayne Wallis - Building an Inclusive New School - Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

    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.

    32 min
  4. Episode 26: Stephen Crockford - A Principal’s Journey of Purpose and Possibility - Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

    02/12/2025

    Episode 26: Stephen Crockford - A Principal’s Journey of Purpose and Possibility - Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

    Stephen Crockford has spent 55 years in education, leading change and lifting expectations in Melbourne’s northwest. In this episode of Around the School Table (www.xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis talks with Stephen about his long career and his final weeks as principal of St Albans Meadows Primary School (www.samps.vic.edu.au). Together, they trace his journey from classroom teacher to community leader, shaped by humility, consistency, and a deep belief in children’s potential. The conversation offers a rare long view of how one principal can help transform a school over decades. It also reveals how culture, not quick fixes, keeps improvement alive. Rather than start with test scores, Stephen focused first on joy, belonging, and pride. Sport became a powerful lever to get students turning up, trying hard, and seeing themselves as part of something bigger. Performing arts followed, with concerts, choirs, bands, and dance groups reshaping how the community saw the school. As a result, students who once felt behind began to stand tall on stage and on the field. Then explicit teaching and careful curriculum work ensured that high expectations in literacy and numeracy matched the growing confidence. Technology was never a gimmick for Stephen. Instead, he backed a one-to-one laptop model in a low socio-economic context, using leasing and clear educational purpose to make devices accessible. At the same time, he kept pen and paper, rich experiences, and front-loaded vocabulary at the centre of learning. Behind the scenes, he built a leadership “pyramid”, with emerging and emerging-emerging leaders always ready to step up. Consequently, the school now has deep curriculum expertise and a strong bench of future principals. Listeners will hear practical insights on building culture through consistency, calmness, and respect. They will also discover how a free parent gym, kitchen garden and clubs for chess, Lego, sport, writing and more help families feel welcome without turning parents into unpaid teachers. Whether you are a new principal, an aspiring leader, or a classroom teacher, this episode with Stephen Crockford will spark reflection on legacy, resilience, and what it means to stay a “teacher first”. Powered by: xuno.com.au. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    35 min
  5. Episode 25: Lisa Burt - Rethinking Small Schools Through Inclusive Leadership - Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

    23/11/2025

    Episode 25: Lisa Burt - Rethinking Small Schools Through Inclusive Leadership - Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

    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.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    29 min
  6. Episode 24: Daniel Delby - Laughing Through Classroom Management - Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

    16/11/2025

    Episode 24: Daniel Delby - Laughing Through Classroom Management - Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

    **Listener warning: This episode contains mild swearing and a brief reference to adult themes.** In this episode of Around the School Table (www.xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis is joined by comedian and action learning coach Daniel Delby to unpack how humour can transform classroom management and teacher wellbeing. Drawing on his journey from drama and phys-ed teaching into science and special needs support, Daniel shows how laughter can keep both students and teachers engaged for the long haul. As the creator of Teacher Comedy Night (teachercomedynight.com), Daniel has turned everyday school stories into a space where educators can connect, unwind and realise they are not alone. Teachers come for the laughs; however, they also leave with fresh perspective on behaviour, relationships and classroom management strategies. Along the way, Daniel shares how a professional learning course in Classroom Management Strategies (CMS) shifted his mindset from “these kids are the problem” to “what can I do differently?” Throughout the conversation, Daniel explains why humour works so powerfully in the classroom. Teachers are constantly performing in front of up to 34 students. Therefore, they must learn to hold attention, break the ice and win the class over. Yet he is clear that not every teacher needs to be a stand-up comic. Instead, he argues that authenticity, clear boundaries and genuine interest in students matter just as much as punchlines. The episode also explores how Daniel uses freestyle rap and improvisation to hook students into learning. From rapping about classes at assemblies to encouraging students to expand their vocabularies so they can rhyme, he demonstrates how creativity can sit alongside curriculum goals. As a result, humour becomes more than a gimmick; it becomes a tool for connection, confidence and student voice. Listeners will also hear about Daniel’s touring Teacher Comedy Night shows, his links to major comedy festivals and the growing community of teachers who are discovering comedy as a way to stay in the profession. Ultimately, this episode is for any educator who loves their students, feels the strain of the job and wants practical, light-hearted ideas to bring joy back into teaching. Powered by: xuno.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    30 min
  7. Episode 23: Dylan Sulzer – Emotional Intelligence in the Classroom – Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

    09/11/2025

    Episode 23: Dylan Sulzer – Emotional Intelligence in the Classroom – Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

    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.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    47 min
  8. Episode 22: Tim Nolan – Leadership, Culture and Creativity at Port Melbourne Secondary College – Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

    02/11/2025

    Episode 22: Tim Nolan – Leadership, Culture and Creativity at Port Melbourne Secondary College – Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

    In this episode of Around the School Table (www.xuno.com.au/podcast), host Steve Davis is joined by Tim Nolan, Principal of Port Melbourne Secondary College (www.portmelbournesc.vic.edu.au) to explore how leadership, vision, and creativity shape a school’s culture and community. Tim leads one of Melbourne’s most distinctive schools, a striking campus inspired by the maritime character of Port Melbourne. From shipping containers to cruise-liner flair, the design mirrors a philosophy that values innovation, inclusivity, and connection. Throughout the conversation, Tim shares insights on leading with purpose amid rapid educational change and how culture and positivity drive effective teams. Listeners will hear how Tim’s leadership journey across Catholic, arts-focused, and STEM-driven schools has helped him understand what makes communities thrive. He explains why aspiring leaders should “do the job of the person above you” to build capacity and confidence. This episode also explores the importance of cultural fit in hiring, the role of creativity in teaching, and why trust and communication remain the cornerstones of strong school culture. The discussion turns to hands-on, real-world learning; from boat restoration projects to partnerships with community mentors at the local Men’s Shed. These programs help students discover confidence and purpose beyond the classroom while fostering intergenerational learning. Tim also reflects on how schools can stay visionary within regulatory frameworks, finding their “true north” by always asking what’s best for students. From navigating funding and growth at Fishermans Bend to building pathways for vocational and inclusive education, Tim highlights how adaptability and collaboration future-proof modern schools. The conversation closes with his vision for graduates who feel supported, inspired, and ready to lead others with empathy and curiosity. This episode offers practical inspiration for educators, school leaders, and policymakers seeking to balance innovation with community connection in Australian education. Powered by: xuno.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    30 min
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About

Around the School Table" brings together the many voices shaping primary and secondary education across Australia, from principals and teachers to education thought leaders and system innovators. Whether you're in the classroom, the staff room or the boardroom, this is your podcast to be informed, inspired and connected.  About Xuno  Xuno Suite is an all-in-one school management system for Australian K–12 schools. It simplifies administration, boosts communication, and supports student wellbeing. Core features include attendance, reporting, payments, incident tracking, and a parent app for real-time updates. Teachers can manage assessments, schedules, and contact families through the platform. Additional modules like Accelerus (advanced reporting) and Student Maps (learning analytics) offer deeper insights. Xuno complies with ACARA and ST4S standards, is locally supported, and trusted by over 500,000 users nationwide.  Website: https://xuno.com.au/  Email: info@xuno.com.au 

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