Inaburra Insight

Inaburra School
Inaburra Insight Podcast

Welcome to Inaburra Insight, a podcast that looks in and beyond the schoolyard to explore the experiences and ideas that connect us, challenge us and help us to live well. Join us as we delve into thought-provoking and inspiring conversations with special guests, live event excerpts, and interesting insights from across our learning community. Proudly presented by Inaburra School. 

  1. AUG 25

    Beyond Numbers: Rethinking ability and inclusivity in Mathematics with Francis Su and James Pietsch.

    In this episode of "Learning Conversations," host Lyndal Tait discusses the nature and purpose of school education with mathematician Francis Su and Inaburra Principal James Pietsch. Francis, a former president of the Mathematical Association of America and author of "Mathematics for Human Flourishing," emphasises the importance of mathematics for its beauty, practicality, and role in improving the human experience. He critiques the performative aspects of mathematics that often exclude people who don't see themselves as maths savvy, and advocates for a more inclusive approach that recognises various ways of being mathematical. James, also with a background in Mathematics and Psychology, highlights the cultural biases in intelligence testing and the fixed views of intelligence that can limit students' potential. The conversation stresses the importance of struggle and perseverance, and the role of mathematics in fostering virtues like hospitality and justice. They also discuss the impact of AI on mathematics education and the need for students to develop critical thinking skills and number sense beyond learning basic arithmetic and times tables. Speakers: Francis Su - Author, Mathematical Explorer Francis Su writes about the dignity of human beings and the wonder of mathematical teaching.  He is the Benediktsson-Karwa Professor of Mathematics at Harvey Mudd College and a former president of the Mathematical Association of America. In 2013, he received the Haimo Award, a nationwide teaching prize for college math faculty, and in 2018 he won the Halmos-Ford writing award. His work has been featured in Quanta Magazine, Wired, and the New York Times. His book Mathematics for Human Flourishing (2020), winner of the 2021 Euler Book Prize, has been translated into eight languages has been termed “perhaps the most important mathematics book of our time” by James Tanton of the Global Math Project. It offers an inclusive vision of what math is, who it's for, and why anyone should learn it. ​His scholarly work can be found at his Harvey Mudd College webpage. Dr James Pietsch – Principal Inaburra School Dr James Pietsch became Principal of Inaburra School at the start of 2018. Prior to commencing at Inaburra, Dr Pietsch was the Dean of Professional Development and Learning at St Luke’s Grammar School in Dee Why where he had previously been Head of Mathematics. He has also held positions as the Dean of Residents at New College at the University of NSW, and as a lecturer and tutor in educational psychology at the University of Sydney. He holds a doctorate in educational psychology and brings a wealth of experience in education and leadership to his role as Principal. James is the author of the book Character Reborn: A Philosophy of Christian Education (2018).   Lyndal Tait –Leader of Innovation & Research K-12 Inaburra School Lyndal is a teacher, researcher and writer with an interest in teacher and leader development. She developed a passion for education and community building through the arts, teaching Music and Visual Arts in schools, conducting choirs, and facilitating art engagement projects. Lyndal has worked as a consultant in school-community engagement, and has experience in counselling, pastoral care, and professional supervision. At Inaburra she helps oversee teacher professional learning and also coordinates a mentoring program for new teachers and teacher practice coaches. Her current doctorate (UNSW Sydney) explores the role of emotion in teachers’ job intentions and commitment. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    43 min
  2. AUG 4

    Beyond the Burra: Study hacks with Julian Annison (Class of 2019)

    During their final year at Inaburra School, as they prepared for their HSC, 2023 InaburraSchool Captains, Christos Gatzastras and Sienna Thorpe sought out advice from pastgraduates about their end of school experience and the opportunities they found beyondgraduation. In this ‘Beyond the Burra’ podcast episode, Christos and Sienna are speaking with Julian Annison, an Inaburra graduate from the Class of 2019. Julian shares his personal experience of navigating high school, study hacks that worked well for him in his final year, and the need for balance between study and relaxation. The three compare their study routines during senior school, including dedicated study time before and after school, the importance of taking breaks and giving yourself permission to recharge and reset. Julian gives advice on time management, and how organisation and preparation are key to getting through the HSC, including learning formula and practicing past papers. He also encourages students to look beyond the final exams and seize opportunities when they present themselves. Julian Annison – Julian is currently undertaking a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Wollongong. His focus areas include Marketing, Public Relations and Management. He has previously worked as the Corporate and Public Affairs Officer at Hireup, Australia's largest NDIS registered provider after starting out as a Disability Support Worker. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    22 min
  3. JUN 3

    Reconnecting with Nature: How it can improve your health, build a heart for conservation in your children and create memorable family adventures

    Lyndal Tait and Mel Clarke discuss the benefits of spending time in nature for mental and physical health. They share personal experiences and tips for incorporating nature into daily routines, highlighting the positive impact on mental health and spirituality. Mel explores how combining exercise in a natural setting can boost healthy hormone levels. She also provides insights on how to engage kids and teenagers in nature-based activities. The conversation emphasises the importance of prioritising nature in our busy lives and building a sense of ownership and investment in the natural world in order to stay connected to place. Strategies for incorporating nature into your family life: Plan bushwalking trips and other outdoor activities during the school holidays Visit local nature areas regularly and notice changes over time to help develop a relationship with that space  Find locations tailored to your interests like beaches, waterfalls, and areas of wildlife, and visit with attention, purpose and conversation Follow bushwalking groups on social media for a variety of recommendations for walks References: Welcome to Huberman Lab - www.hubermanlab.com David George Haskell - https://dghaskell.com/theforestunseen D.O.S.E. https://www.happyfeed.co/research/4-brain-chemicals-make-you-happy Speakers: Lyndal Tait –Leader of Innovation & Research K-12 Inaburra School Lyndal is a teacher, researcher and writer with an interest in teacher and leader development. She developed a passion for education and community building through the arts, teaching Music and Visual Arts in schools, conducting choirs, and facilitating art engagement projects. Lyndal has worked as a consultant in school-community engagement, and has experience in counselling, pastoral care, and professional supervision. At Inaburra she helps oversee teacher professional learning and also coordinates a mentoring program for new teachers and teacher practice coaches. Her current doctorate (UNSW Sydney) explores the role of emotion in teachers’ job intentions and commitment.  Mel Clarke – Inaburra Deputy Head of Senior School Mel Clarke is a PDHPE educator with a wealth of experience in the student wellbeing space. She is a passionate advocate for physical activity and holistic health. Mel enjoys challenging individuals to push their limits and foster self-improvement and has road-tested the outdoor strategies discussed in this podcast with her three active, high-energy children. Beyond the classroom, she finds serenity and inspiration through bushwalking, merging her love for nature with her role as a citizen scientist. Her contributions to the latest Sydney Basin Koala Report highlights her commitment to environmental stewardship.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    25 min
  4. MAY 16

    Learning Conversations: Why everybody should learn a musical instrument

    Inaburra’s Director of Music, Jen Geering, discusses her research into the impacts of music education with recent Inaburra graduate Abbey Parkes, piano accompanist Ray Avard and host Lyndal Tait. They share their personal musical journeys and how learning an instrument shaped them over time. Insights are provided into forming community through music and how it cultivates growth and influences academic performance far beyond the classroom. Advice is also offered for parents on encouraging children to develop skills like diligence and perseverance through their music practice. In the conversation: Lyndal Tait –Leader of Innovation & Research K-12 Inaburra School Lyndal is a teacher, researcher and writer with an interest leader development. She developed a passion for education and community building through the arts, teaching Music and Visual Arts in schools, conducting choirs, and facilitating art engagement projects. Lyndal has worked as a consultant in school-community engagement, and has experience in counselling, pastoral care, and professional supervision. At Inaburra she helps oversee teacher’s professional learning and also coordinates a mentoring program for new teachers and teacher practice coaches. Her current doctorate (UNSW Sydney) explores the role of emotions in teachers’ job intentions and commitment.  Jen Geering – Inaburra Director of Music K-12Jen has been the Director of Music at Inaburra since 2017. She began her musical journey aged just five, playing the violin. Jen furthered her training at the Conservatorium High School in Sydney. She holds a Bachelor of Music, a Bachelor of Education and has just completed her Masters in Educational Leadership at UNSW. Jen oversees Inaburra's extensive music program, which includes ensembles, tutoring and academic courses. Her postgraduate research examined factors that influence students to continue or stop playing instruments. Under her leadership, Inaburra’s music program cultivates community and supports students' well-being and lifelong appreciation of music. Ray Avard – Piano Accompanist and Retired Music Teacher Ray is a renowned piano accompanist who began playing when he was seven. He went on to become a music teacher. Now retired, Ray still practices up to three hours a day in order to accompany many of the students in their HSC performances. With over 50 years of experience in music education, Ray has inspired countless young musicians with his passion and dedication to the craft. Abbey Parkes – Inaburra GraduateAbbey is Inaburra Alumnus and a former School Captain. In her graduate year she was the recipient of the prestigious Elwyn Townsend Award for Commitment and Dedication to Music. Abbey began learning piano at a young age and was heavily involved in Inaburra's music program throughout her studies due to her love of performing and the close-knit community it provided. Now pursuing a career in education, Abbey continues to be active in the music space, returning to play with the school ensembles and singing at her local church.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    37 min
  5. APR 8

    Practical Pod: Technology and your child with Dr Justin Coulson, Matt Tomlin and Tanya Grant

    In this episode, parenting expert Dr Justin Coulson joins Matt Tomlin and Tanya Grant to discuss practical strategies for managing children's technology use at home and how to foster open communication about devices. Justin shares insights from his own experience raising six daughters and provides tips parents can implement to set healthy boundaries, support student wellbeing, and keep children safe online through empathy and ongoing dialogue. Resources for further learning are also recommended.   Speakers: Dr Justin Coulson  Justin is co-host and parenting expert on Channel 9's Parental Guidance, the founder of happyfamilies.com.au, and one of Australia’s most trusted parenting experts. He holds a PhD in Positive Psychology. Over the past decade he has helped innumerable families with his nine books about raising children, his hundreds of media appearances (including all of Australia’s major news outlets, and even the Washington Post and the New York Times), and two viral videos that have been viewed a combined 80 million times. Justin and his wife Kylie have been married since the late 1990s and are the parents of six daughters. Mr Matt TomlinMatt is the Stage 4 Director at Inaburra School which oversees Year 7 and 8. He has more than 25 years’ experience teaching PDHPE and Biblical Studies in High Schools. For the past 15 years he has been in welfare related roles in Independent schools. Matt currently oversees the designing and directing of wellbeing programs and procedures that support student learning and character development. He also plays a key role in welcoming, guiding and supporting new Year 7 students (and families) as they transition from primary to secondary school. Mrs Tanya GrantTanya is the Stage 6 Director at Inaburra School which oversees Year 11 and 12. She has more than 22 years’ experience teaching PDHPE to High School Students. More recently Tanya has held positions as Year Advisor with responsibility for the welfare and progress of the Senior graduating year groups as they journey through their final year of school. As Stage 6 Director she is responsible for designing and directing wellbeing programs and procedures that support student learning and character development and to maintain a safe and supportive environment for all students in both proactive and reactive ways. Resources and weblinks: Happy Families (Justin Coulson) https://www.happyfamilies.com.au/ eSafety Commissioner https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents  Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation https://www.accce.gov.au/ Kids Helpline https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents  Reach Out https://parents.au.reachout.com/common-concerns/everyday-issues/cyberbullying-and-teenagers  Additional Resources https://www.cybersafetysolutions.com.au/ https://rebeccasparrow.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    1h 1m

About

Welcome to Inaburra Insight, a podcast that looks in and beyond the schoolyard to explore the experiences and ideas that connect us, challenge us and help us to live well. Join us as we delve into thought-provoking and inspiring conversations with special guests, live event excerpts, and interesting insights from across our learning community. Proudly presented by Inaburra School. 

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