Header image

Snapshot of Events

You will see each event colour coded in its own track in the table below. All sessions are clickable showing the content and speaker for each. 

 

For information on all events happening at the National Education Summit Melbourne please visit our website - https://www.nationaleducationsummit.com.au/melbourne/conferences 

 

REGISTER NOW


Thursday, August 28, 2025

Knowledge Centre Program
Classroom of The Future
Round Table Discussion
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM Top Super Tips for Teachers
Join Jarrod Pye, Aware's super experienced, super professional for top tips on: • Starting your teaching role, the impact of study and travel breaks, setting up protection for the unexpected • Good financial health - saving and managing debt (including HECS/HELP) • Super - ways to grow your super, easy ways to contribute, saving for your first home with super • Case studies and resources will be included 		SHARING A HISTORY OF EMBEDDING THRASS across numerous schools
THRASS is excited to be the sponsor of ‘The Classroom of the Future’. Discover the fun and success of using THRASS. Join us as we take you on a deep dive into the ultimate tool to teach the English writing code - the THRASS chart. The chart enables you to explain how the reading and writing system ‘really’ works. We will expose the ‘trickery’ embedded in letter-to-sound phonics programs that can lead our learners into ‘code confusion’, where even simple two-letter words become difficult and ‘tricky’! Discover why over the decades we have the same common misspellings such as ‘have written as hav’, ‘was written as woz’, ‘come written as cum’, ‘they written as thay’ etc, and the answer to how we can close this literacy gap. Watch as we show you how the THRASS chart is used to teach, remediate and revise, giving learners a constant reference point to revisit phoneme-to-grapheme information. This one tool can be used to teach phonemic awareness, the Alphabet, phonics, blends, syllables, morphemes, orthography and etymology, and it doesn't stop there. The same chart is used for oral language, teaching story writing and teaching grammar rules. Equip yourself with the ultimate literacy teaching resource and provide your learners with a tool that will enable them to make the connections needed to understand the English writing system. 		Student Wellbeing, Connection and Belonging in the Age of AI + Tech
In this interactive discussion, we’ll explore how the rapid rise of AI and other disruptive technologies is reshaping the classroom experience, from challenging traditional assessment practices to influencing how students connect, create, and find meaning in their learning. Together, we’ll unpack how schools can harness AI not as a threat, but as an opportunity to deepen critical thinking, enhance creativity, and foster authentic student engagement. We’ll also discuss practical strategies to protect and promote student wellbeing, identity, and belonging in this tech-driven age, ensuring human connection stays at the heart of education.
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM Click Against Hate: Empower Students to Stand Up, Speak Out and Create Change
1 in 5 kids have been bullied online. 1 in 7 adults have been targeted by online hate speech. What if your school could empower students to challenge hate, promote inclusion, and become digital citizens who make a difference? Join us for an exclusive tour of Click Against Hate – a free forever, cutting-edge online education program funded by the Australian Federal Government. Redesigned and reimagined, this powerful resource equips primary and secondary students with the knowledge and tools to navigate complex topics such as online dangers, racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, homophobia, freedom of speech, cyberbullying, and more. Be part of the change. Click Against Hate is Free Forever – and your school can start today. 		Bridging Hearts and Minds – AI for Human Connection in the Classroom
Through vivid examples and actionable insights, this presentation will demonstrate how AI can be a bridge—not a barrier—to nurturing empathy, inclusivity, and meaningful dialogue in the classroom. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover how technology, when used responsibly, can amplify the heart of education: human connection. 		In-the-Moment Tools for Student Wellbeing
High school students are under more pressure than ever, yet with academic, extracurricular, and social demands filling their days, most don’t have time for traditional wellbeing practices. With short attention spans and few moments to pause, they need tools that work in the moment. This discussion explores practical, science-backed strategies, such as breathwork, that can be used in under a minute to reduce stress, improve focus, and help students feel more in control. We’ll also share a few of these tools so you can experience their immediate impact.
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM Delivering an inclusive online school
BlendED have crafted and implemented a visionary approach to delivering online learning grounded in the principles of wrap-around support, inclusivity, and accessible pathways to success for students facing complex social, emotional, and academic challenges. Dan and Richie will share BlendED’s approach to delivering a truly inclusive online school, their strategy for delivering comprehensive support, and the tailored learning experiences designed to engage both students and teachers. Their commitment to creating a flexible, student-centred learning environment is reshaping online education and providing life-changing opportunities for young people who need it most. 		The recharging power of mini wellbeing moments: Replenishing students, staff and leader wellbeing
Running on empty - an apt phrase for educators right now. How can we revitalise our students in ways that also recharge us? Order of Australia recipient, Professor Lea Waters, PhD, will draw on Positive Psychology research and Neuroscience to show how mini moments of wellbeing (less than 2 minutes) can undo stress and uplift us. Practical ways to build micro moments into daily life at school will be discussed. 		AI and Machine Learning - a gentle introduction
AI is everywhere at the moment, and as exciting (or scary) as it is, it can be daunting to know where to start. Let's explore coding projects for 8-13 years olds that provide a gentle introduction to AI and machine learning where our young people are the ones creating the tech, to understand better what it can do. Take away some free resources and share the ones that you like to use.
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM Exploring the impact of AI and Digital Literacy on Education
Teaching digital literacy is different from teaching digital skills, which has traditionally received more focus. However, the rise of generative artificial intelligence has made it essential for educators to enhance digital literacy among young people, preparing them to navigate the future digital landscape. Join us as we explore strategies for emphasising key areas such as AI and media literacy. We will also share practical resources and ideas that you can implement in the classroom. 		Teens and Screens
In the modern world we require students to have access to devices to enhance their education. Yet in doing so, we are inadvertently arming them with a potentially lethal weapon. This session will provide an insight into some of the key issues experienced by young people online, and the impact they are having on their mental health. We will also provide readily implementable solutions to support students in this space. 		Assistive Technology in the Classroom
We will discuss what works and what doesn’t – with a focus on students with reading difficulties. Come along and share ideas and learn new strategies.
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM Powerful PD: Focusing on the teaching rather than the teacher
This thought-provoking session explores a form of evidence-backed PD that honours the complexity of teaching, while affirming high-quality current practice. Multiple, rigorous studies have demonstrated that Quality Teaching (QT) Rounds impact positively on teacher learning, teaching practice and student achievement. 		Technology or teachers?
There is a well-recognised conflict between those who advocate that technology can take over much of the teaching in our classrooms, and those who feel that replacing teachers with computers is just plain wrong. The feeling seems to be that explicit teaching is fundamentally inconsistent with using technology. However, there’s a different way of looking at this. This session will use StepsWeb, a leading online literacy program, to illustrate how technology can free a teacher up and enhance the ability of a teacher to genuinely meet the individual needs of their students within a busy classroom. It will show how technology can be utilised to do things a teacher literally cannot do, even if they had all the time (and energy!) in the world. The session will be of interest to literacy specialists – and any class teachers concerned about meeting individual needs within their primary or secondary schools. 		Keeping it Positive -An Innovative Approach to Aligning with the ACARA Sustainability Cross Curricular Priority
Meet the makers of the Stay Tuned to Our Planet (STTOP) team and learn about their new educational program along with key learnings on teaching about environmental issues and sustainability. Adapted from the YouTuber hosted STTOP online series, the 64+ educational resources support teaching about sustainability and deliver innovative and dynamic activities students can do at school and at home. Mapped to the Sciences and Humanities Australian Curriculum the resources are aimed at years 5-6, and 7-9 and come with a Teacher Support Resource co-authored by the Orygen Institute, headspace and Psychology for a Safe Climate, Climate Emotions in the Classroom: Practical Tips for Teachers.
12:50 PM - 1:05 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:45 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM Strategic Planning for Schools - Hope is not a Strategy!
We invite senior administrative staff responsible for the long-term future of their school to collaborate during this session. Whether you are the Principal, Business Manager, Advancement Manager, Enrollments Manager, on the Board or any other senior executive, you will learn a great deal about what information is available and how to access it for better business decisions at your school. Most schools have a Strategic Plan, and this session is to explain the information that is available for you to have a data-based plan to assist your school in making good long-term decisions. 		Mindflight7 Workshop - Virtual Reality it's not all about the tech!!
Participants will learn the recipe of how to craft effective lesson plans that leverage VR to boost student engagement, enrich their learning journeys, and improve academic results. Emphasis will be placed on VR's potential to support key subject areas such as general sciences, HASS, Health & PE including Wellbeing and Digital Technologies (Digitech), empowering students to explore and learn in innovative ways.
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:00 PM - 2:40 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM Designing Spaces for Growth: Creating Classrooms that Cultivate Meta skills
How can the design of a classroom unlock students’ potential and foster the skills they need to thrive? In this inspiring session, you’ll explore how thoughtfully designed spaces can shape learner attitudes like creativity, resilience, and critical thinking. By focusing on key meta skills, you’ll discover how to create learning environments that truly support growth, engagement, and success. Together, we’ll reimagine classrooms as even more dynamic spaces that encourage students to develop the skills they need for the future and reflect on the practical elements that bring these ideas to life. 		The Science of student success: Lessons from a million learners
Drawing on data from over a million students using Atomi, this talk dives into how Australian students learn and retain information. By analysing patterns in engagement and outcomes, we’ll uncover surprising insights into classroom behaviour and learning efficacy. Most importantly, we’ll explore how simple, evidence-backed tweaks can lead to dramatic improvements in student engagement and academic success.
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM Moving across the Indigenous Cultural Responsiveness continuum in Teacher Education
In this session, participants will delve into the significance of cultural responsiveness in education, exploring practical strategies to integrate these practices into their teaching. Participants will be introduced to a comprehensive toolkit designed to enhance cultural responsiveness, promote self-reflection, and create supportive, culturally safe environments, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and staff. By the end of this session, attendees will feel inspired and motivated to actively contribute to fostering cultural safety in Australian schools and beyond, recognising the critical importance of inclusivity and diversity in education. 		This is the Connection You're Looking for: Building the Classroom of the Future
The classroom of the future isn't just about technology, it’s about creating a learning environment rooted in sustainable connections that foster student growth, engagement, and well-being. In this session, Matt will explore how future classrooms can thrive through a focus on whole school connection. Drawing on The Connection Curriculum framework and its practical application in building relationships, fostering belonging, and creating meaning, Matt will share strategies to enhance student learning outcomes while promoting teacher well-being. Attendees will leave with actionable insights to create learning spaces that bridge the gap between academic excellence and deep human connection, preparing students for a future where collaboration, creativity, and community matter more than ever. 		Decoding Big Tobacco: A collaborative dive into the influence of vaping and nicotine pouches on youth
Join us for a hands-on roundtable discussion where we dig into how vaping and nicotine pouches are being cleverly marketed to young people. These products are designed to confuse, mislead, and hook a new generation—and schools are on the front line. Together, we will explore how to go beyond health facts and spark meaningful conversations that help students see through the smoke and mirrors. You will leave with fresh insights, classroom-ready strategies, and resources to strengthen your wellbeing programs. Bring your curiosity and your voice—this is a space to share, challenge, and collaborate.
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM
AI in the Classroom
Wellbeing for Future Focused Schools
Diverse Learners
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM An AI Odyssey – Navigating the Future of Education"
Embark on a captivating journey with Brett Salakas, 2024 Most Influential Educator in Australia, as he explores the transformative landscape of Artificial Intelligence in education through the lens of Homer's epic, The Odyssey. Brett intertwines the timeless narrative of Odysseus with the modern voyage educators undertake in integrating AI into leadership and strategic practice. Discover the metaphorical "storms" that can blow your initiatives off course, identify the "monsters" and pitfalls to avoid, and learn about the "compass points" that will guide you towards successful and meaningful AI integration. Brett will also showcase a selection of practical AI tools and applications designed to empower school leaders and aspiring leaders, enhancing decision-making, administrative efficiency, and educational outcomes. Join this insightful session to equip yourself with the knowledge and strategies needed to confidently steer your school community through the evolving seas of AI technology. 		You Had One Job
Do you remember a time when a School Leader’s job seemed simple and straight forward? It was, you know… to lead the school! But somewhere across the years we absorbed an inordinate number of ancillary responsibilities as educators and now it can feel as though we’re not specialising, making a difference in what matters or even working in our purpose. That needs to stop. Adam will challenge you to re-imagine your school leadership as a leader of school culture. That really can be your ‘one job’ if we get clear on what culture is, how it underpins every school objective, how it promotes strong practice, optimises wellbeing and why it’s the practical work you were born to do in your school every single day.
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM Anxiety: What Your Students Need you to Know
Research shows us that 1 in 3 females and 1 in 5 males will experience an anxiety condition in their lifetime with the median onset age now being 15 years young. Statistics around anxiety are increasing at a rapid rate amongst our young people. In this presentation we will cover the science behind anxiety and how to explain this to your young people. We will share top tips for supporting your students with anxiety, and how to empower them with strategies to manage their anxieties on their own, both in and outside of the classroom.
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM Navigating the challenges and opportunities of AI in education
With AI reshaping industries, schools have a responsibility to prepare students for a future transformed by these tools. The rapid advancement of AI brings both exciting possibilities and complexities to the classroom. This presentation will focus on ways to design curriculum that equips students to both utilise AI and critically assess its outputs. 		Who Cares for the Carers?
This workshop isn't just about understanding your own well being and burnout; it's about transforming your approach to teaching to create a thriving, sustainable environment. Those that attend will walk away with actionable strategies and tools. • Reconsider key behaviours including, saying 'yes' to everything • Identify and Address Burnout Factors • Address workload and workplace culture including work ethic, alignment of values, recovery and the ability to switch off. • Focus on Personal Recovery: Emphasise the importance of personal recovery and where your organisational responsibility lies. Focus on your own well-being and recovery.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM Neuroaffirming practices to support diverse learners
The Diverse Learners Hub is a key school workforce capability initiative of the Victorian Government's Disability Inclusion reform that is being delivered by the Department of Education and in 2025 will have been rolled out to all Victorian government schools across the state. Disability Inclusion is a strengths-based approach to inclusive education, with a focus on what students can do rather than what they can't. The presentation will specifically focus on the importance of neuro-affirming practices for diverse learners in schools.
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM Morning Tea Morning Tea
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM Think Like a Machine, Teach Like A Dream: Using computational thinking to supercharge your teacher productivity with AI
Let’s explore how computational thinking can transform teaching workflows by leveraging AI as a productivity multiplier. By breaking down tasks into smaller components, teachers can "farm out" repetitive or ideation-heavy processes to AI tools. While AI isn't great at delivering high-quality final outputs, it excels at brainstorming, generating ideas, and offering initial feedback, freeing teachers to focus on more nuanced and creative aspects of their work. I will demonstrate how AI can handle differentiation, data analysis, and ideation, helping teachers work smarter, not harder.
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM Strategies for educator well-being in the real world
Participants will discuss practical strategies for their professional wellbeing in managing the demands of the current workload on educators. The session will be set in the context of the new Rite to Disconnect legislation, the current expectations of employers and parents, and the reality that educators face in the real world. 		Understand the neurological aspects of literacy development - and learn to meet all the needs in your classroom
This session will cover the neuroscience behind transitioning from conscious decoding to genuine reading fluency. It will examine why some students struggle with this transition and how to utilize correct methodology and modern teaching tools to help them suceed. Participants will be introduced to an online tool which allows teachers to track a student's progress towards fluency using the Visual Word Form Area of the Brain. There will also be an opportunity to trial this tool with their own learners.
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM Lunch
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM Strengtening Connections to Promote Student Attendance
What is connection and why is it so vital to the relationship between educator and student? What role does feeling connected to school play in attendance? And what is our role as educators to facilitate this sense of connection with our students? We will highlight the importance of connection in the lives of our young people and the role that connection plays in increased school attendance. We will; understand the vital role connection plays for a young person in showing up to school and engaging in academic and social activities within the school community; empower you as educators with many useful strategies, tools and activities to use both inside and outside of the classroom to help create solid foundations for connection; highlight the power of teacher vulnerability and how to encourage your students to want to connect with you and their classmates to foster a greater sense of wellbeing and community within the classroom and beyond. 		Classroom habits, intentional routines that serve both students and teachers.
Classrooms are highly complex ecosystems with a lot happening below the surface. This session is designed to help teachers build habits and routines for both themselves and their students that reduce friction, build a sense of community and belonging, empower students and create a space where students succeed and the joy returns to our teaching. While a small proportion of students will require significant interventions outside of the classroom, there are powerful strategies that meet the needs of many learners who currently find school hard. This session draws on research in psychology and pedagogy to focus on creating a classroom where diverse learners experience success, grow in confidence and make genuine progress.
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM Discussion: Integrating AI Technologies into Classroom Practice
We will have an open discussion about Strategies, Experiences, Ethical Considerations, and the Future of AI in Education.
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch Break Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:50 PM - 1:05 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM Think Tank
Our MC will facilitate a group discussion around: • If AI can personalise learning better than a teacher, what is the teacher’s evolving role? • How do we ensure transparency, fairness, and student safety? • What tasks can AI take over, and what must remain human-led? • How do we teach students to critically engage with AI tools?
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM Learning design in the age of Gen AI
This interactive session dips a toe in the Gen AI waters in relation to designing units of work. Whether you’re an old-school purist, an adventurous techy or just plain curious, we’ll take a look at the role of Gen AI in supporting teachers to create high quality units of work. A brief demonstration, focusing on Wiggins and McTighe’s Understanding by Design approach in combination with the Quality Teaching Model, will provide food for thought as well as some useful tips to guide your AI journey. Bring an open mind with a clear idea of the important concepts you’d like your students to grasp in an upcoming unit of work. Let’s have some fun!
1:30 PM - 1:45 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM Discussion time
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM Navigating Burnout - Beyond the Pressure of Self Care
Despite more wellness programs, mental health days, and resilience training, burnout rates are rising. Why? Because we’re still treating burnout with “stop gap chunks”. Self Care is important but won’t support a workforce whose biology is simply not self care ready. In thus session we will ditch the myths holding us back and have immediate actions to take without putting more on your plate. Walk away knowing you can have the energy to truly make a difference in the world. Because thriving isn’t a luxury—it’s the future of good education. Modelling this as teachers is setting our students up to avoid the overwhelm epidemic.
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM Our actions. Our impact. Our responsibility
This session will change how you see behaviour management. Dr Caroline Blackley’s research highlights the real change required to move from transactional to transformational interactions that create productive teaching and learning environments. Sharing current school stories that represent what teaching with less disruption looks like through the lens of data. Sharing the metrics to verify that we can measure the ‘feel’ of a school culture with validity and reliability.
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM Afternoon Tea
2:00 PM - 2:40 PM Developing Social and Emotionally Intelligent Classrooms & Schools
This interactive session will allow participants to experience what a socially and emotionally intelligent classroom looks and feels like using three main strategic processes: culturally responsive teaching, data-informed decision-making, and ethically responsible leadership. The presenter will also provide a toolbox for participants to take back and use in their classrooms and across their schools as they continue to develop their focus on sustained well-being within their schools. Please bring a device to participate fully in this presentation.
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM Purpose Topography Project - AI
The Purpose Topography Project - AI, is a transformative initiative that seeks to redefine educational paradigms in the context of artificial intelligence. As part of a PhD project at the University of Technology Sydney, this workshop aims to explore how AI can enhance and reshape our understanding of the purpose of education for a sustainable and thriving future. Participants will engage in a dynamic mapping exercise to visualize their perspectives on how AI can redefine educational objectives globally. The workshop will consist of three key phases: 1. Exploring AI’s Role in Education - participants will embark on a global exploration of AI's impact on educational purpose, examining literature and case studies from various contexts. 2. Interactive Mapping of Perspectives - building on the innovative research methodology, participants will engage in peer interviews during the session. This will allow them to articulate their views on AI's role in education and how these views may evolve. 3. Commitments to Action - finally, we will discuss the future implications of AI in education, encouraging participants to formulate personal action plans.
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM Autism in schools & mental health in children/teens
Kerryn is an autistic woman diagnosed at the age of 30 with Asperger's Syndrome. Her session will describe her very early days where she had no support or assistance in the classroom and didn't have the tools or early intervention. She will speak about comprehension/imagination, impairment of the autistic child/teen/adult. She will also provide information on the mental health of the child/teen/adult via her lived experience sharing strategies that may help you or your students to thrive!
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM Student management in difficult times
Managing student behaviours in today’s classrooms has become increasingly complex, particularly in the context of post-COVID learning environments and the evolving dynamics of Generation Z and Alpha students. In this presentation, we will explore the unique challenges educators face, including issues of engagement, disruptive behaviours, and the pressures of meeting diverse needs within schools. We will address how shifting worldviews, cultural expectations, and heightened student anxieties have compounded these difficulties, possibly making traditional approaches less effective. By drawing on real-life examples and current research offering practical strategies for creating a positive classroom environment that balances discipline with care. Educators will leave with a deeper understanding of the root causes of behaviour challenges and a toolkit of solutions aimed at promoting holistic student growth and positive classroom culture aligned with modern pedagogical insights.
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM Free time to explore AI programs in the expo
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM
Research to Reality for Aspiring Leaders
Mindflight7 Demonstration
Book Signing Nook
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM Our orientation
The first module establishes a framer in which to situate our leadership. Subsequent modules explore other aspects of leadership in relation to this framer. Participants are asked to identify (and subsequently ‘track’) a school-based challenge from their own setting, reflecting deeply on current practices and approaches, applying new knowledge and skills to that challenge as the modules are unpacked.
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Working in the Complexity
Exploring complexity and systems thinking as influencers on our work as leaders Consideration of the implications for our school improvement journeys This module exposes participants to current evidence-based theories and constructs which seek to describe the emergent challenges facing school leaders. Using a social constructivist approach, the module will orientate participants to the theories and allow for the drawing of connections to own contexts. We will share perspectives and reflect, consolidate and plan for action in the light of new knowledge and understanding. Prerequisites: Participants are asked to bring along their school’s current strategic improvement plan and/or annual action plan.
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Research to Reality for Aspiring Leaders
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 1 – VR Anatomy Lab: Dive into Immersive Dissections
Unleash the power of virtual reality in the classroom with Mindflight7's VR Anatomy Lab. Dive into hands-on frog dissections, mastering complex biological systems and laboratory safety without the need for real specimens.
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Morning Tea
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 2 – Career Compass VR: Experience Your Futures in Action
Chart your course to success with Mindflight7's Career Compass VR, where students can virtually explore a wide range of career paths through hands-on, immersive VR experiences. This interactive session fosters a growth mindset and empowers students to make informed choices and confident decisions about their academic and professional futures.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM Cultivating collective efficacy (CE)
Conceptual framework exploring the mindsets, skillsets and toolsets Exploring the links to leadership capabilities Given the ascribed impact CE can have on improving student learning outcomes, this module explores current research describing conditions conducive to CE. Participants will draw upon their own experiences of leaders and leadership; and consider their own capabilities when fostering professional growth in others. Prerequisites: Participants are asked to bring along their current school’s professional appraisal approach.
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 3 – Math Worlds VR: Visualize Infinity Line
Empower your students to conquer mathematical challenges with Mindflight7's Math Worlds VR, part of a revolutionary six-app series specifically designed to tackle prevalent misconceptions. Immerse yourself in interactive visualizations of abstract ideas, from infinity lines to place value, fostering clarity and confidence in every learner.
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM Lea Waters, Director, Visible Wellbeing
Author of The Strength Switch
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM Using evidence-informed improvement tools
Exploring the domains of highly effective school leadership Consideration of how to create schoolwide evidence-informed approaches to improved student learning and wellbeing outcomes Using ACER’s School Improvement Tool (SIT) and the Principal Performance Improvement Tool (PPIT), participants will explore the practices of effective leadership and how leaders grow the effectiveness of their teachers. Prerequisites: Participants will be provided with copies of the SIT and the PPIT.
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 4 – Virtual Art Studio: Sculpting Imagination in 3D
Embrace your inner artist in a revolutionary immersive environment, where you'll explore the differences between realistic and abstract art and sculpt your own 3D masterpieces individually or collaboratively. This experience empowers students to express ideas and perspectives in a dynamic, digital medium, fostering creativity and artistic skill.
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM Andrew Oberthur, Principal, St Columba’s Wilston
Author of: • Are you Ready for School? • Balance • The School Leadership Juggle
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:50 PM - 1:05 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 5 – Ecosystems Adventures VR: Explore Environments Firsthand
Embark on an incredible virtual journey to explore diverse ecosystems and their intricate workings across the globe. This immersive experience allows students to delve into critical topics like biodiversity, animal adaptation, and the impact of natural disasters and climate change fostering a deeper understanding of our planet's environments and their interconnectedness.
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:45 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 6 – Build your own lesson plan using VR
Discover how to revolutionize your teaching by integrating cutting-edge virtual reality into your curriculum to deliver the key learning outcomes. This interactive session will showcase how versatile VR applications can be used to create engaging and immersive learning experiences across various subjects, from languages to creative arts.
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM Matt Pitman, Head of Senior School, Catholic Regional College, Caroline Springs
Author of The Connection Curriculum
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Approaching implementation
Making explicit the links between strategic leadership and effective implementation of strategies Evaluating widely used implementation approaches Participants will explore what constitutes effective implementation of improvement strategies. In assessing various approaches, and by reflecting on lived experiences of implementing strategies in schools, participants will be asked to consider dosage, fidelity, quality and acceptability (Albers et al 2017) as measures of effectiveness. Prerequisites: Nil.
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM Mindflight7 Speaker Session in the Classroom of the Future: Mindflight7 Workshop – Virtual Reality it’s Not All About Tech!”
Learn how to strategically embed virtual reality into your library, positioning it as a dynamic center for future-focused learning and student engagement. This session will inform librarians about diverse VR programs that support subjects like science, mathematics, humanities, and enable students to create impactful 360-degree content, demonstrating how to make your library an indispensable hub for 21st-century education.
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:00 PM - 2:40 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 7 – Trades in VR: Hands-On Skills for Future Careers
Get a realistic preview of exciting trade careers through immersive virtual reality, allowing students to safely experience hands-on skills in fields like forklift driving, pole-top rescue, and plumbing safety. This innovative session offers practical insight into the diverse world of trades, preparing the next generation for in-demand professions.
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM Synthesis
Consolidation of a response to a contextual challenge Collaborating to adjust/finetune next steps Participants will return to their current challenge and using a placemat, further unpack leadership for improvement. Collaborating with others, there is an opportunity to apply the learnings gained at this workshop. Prerequisites: Specific contextual challenge.
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM Discussion
Discussion of ongoing networking and professional learning.
Knowledge Centre Program
Classroom of The Future
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM Top Super Tips for Teachers
Join Jarrod Pye, Aware's super experienced, super professional for top tips on: • Starting your teaching role, the impact of study and travel breaks, setting up protection for the unexpected • Good financial health - saving and managing debt (including HECS/HELP) • Super - ways to grow your super, easy ways to contribute, saving for your first home with super • Case studies and resources will be included 		SHARING A HISTORY OF EMBEDDING THRASS across numerous schools
THRASS is excited to be the sponsor of ‘The Classroom of the Future’. Discover the fun and success of using THRASS. Join us as we take you on a deep dive into the ultimate tool to teach the English writing code - the THRASS chart. The chart enables you to explain how the reading and writing system ‘really’ works. We will expose the ‘trickery’ embedded in letter-to-sound phonics programs that can lead our learners into ‘code confusion’, where even simple two-letter words become difficult and ‘tricky’! Discover why over the decades we have the same common misspellings such as ‘have written as hav’, ‘was written as woz’, ‘come written as cum’, ‘they written as thay’ etc, and the answer to how we can close this literacy gap. Watch as we show you how the THRASS chart is used to teach, remediate and revise, giving learners a constant reference point to revisit phoneme-to-grapheme information. This one tool can be used to teach phonemic awareness, the Alphabet, phonics, blends, syllables, morphemes, orthography and etymology, and it doesn't stop there. The same chart is used for oral language, teaching story writing and teaching grammar rules. Equip yourself with the ultimate literacy teaching resource and provide your learners with a tool that will enable them to make the connections needed to understand the English writing system.
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM Click Against Hate: Empower Students to Stand Up, Speak Out and Create Change
1 in 5 kids have been bullied online. 1 in 7 adults have been targeted by online hate speech. What if your school could empower students to challenge hate, promote inclusion, and become digital citizens who make a difference? Join us for an exclusive tour of Click Against Hate – a free forever, cutting-edge online education program funded by the Australian Federal Government. Redesigned and reimagined, this powerful resource equips primary and secondary students with the knowledge and tools to navigate complex topics such as online dangers, racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, homophobia, freedom of speech, cyberbullying, and more. Be part of the change. Click Against Hate is Free Forever – and your school can start today. 		Bridging Hearts and Minds – AI for Human Connection in the Classroom
Through vivid examples and actionable insights, this presentation will demonstrate how AI can be a bridge—not a barrier—to nurturing empathy, inclusivity, and meaningful dialogue in the classroom. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover how technology, when used responsibly, can amplify the heart of education: human connection.
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM Delivering an inclusive online school
BlendED have crafted and implemented a visionary approach to delivering online learning grounded in the principles of wrap-around support, inclusivity, and accessible pathways to success for students facing complex social, emotional, and academic challenges. Dan and Richie will share BlendED’s approach to delivering a truly inclusive online school, their strategy for delivering comprehensive support, and the tailored learning experiences designed to engage both students and teachers. Their commitment to creating a flexible, student-centred learning environment is reshaping online education and providing life-changing opportunities for young people who need it most. 		The recharging power of mini wellbeing moments: Replenishing students, staff and leader wellbeing
Running on empty - an apt phrase for educators right now. How can we revitalise our students in ways that also recharge us? Order of Australia recipient, Professor Lea Waters, PhD, will draw on Positive Psychology research and Neuroscience to show how mini moments of wellbeing (less than 2 minutes) can undo stress and uplift us. Practical ways to build micro moments into daily life at school will be discussed.
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM Exploring the impact of AI and Digital Literacy on Education
Teaching digital literacy is different from teaching digital skills, which has traditionally received more focus. However, the rise of generative artificial intelligence has made it essential for educators to enhance digital literacy among young people, preparing them to navigate the future digital landscape. Join us as we explore strategies for emphasising key areas such as AI and media literacy. We will also share practical resources and ideas that you can implement in the classroom. 		Teens and Screens
In the modern world we require students to have access to devices to enhance their education. Yet in doing so, we are inadvertently arming them with a potentially lethal weapon. This session will provide an insight into some of the key issues experienced by young people online, and the impact they are having on their mental health. We will also provide readily implementable solutions to support students in this space.
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM Powerful PD: Focusing on the teaching rather than the teacher
This thought-provoking session explores a form of evidence-backed PD that honours the complexity of teaching, while affirming high-quality current practice. Multiple, rigorous studies have demonstrated that Quality Teaching (QT) Rounds impact positively on teacher learning, teaching practice and student achievement. 		Technology or teachers?
There is a well-recognised conflict between those who advocate that technology can take over much of the teaching in our classrooms, and those who feel that replacing teachers with computers is just plain wrong. The feeling seems to be that explicit teaching is fundamentally inconsistent with using technology. However, there’s a different way of looking at this. This session will use StepsWeb, a leading online literacy program, to illustrate how technology can free a teacher up and enhance the ability of a teacher to genuinely meet the individual needs of their students within a busy classroom. It will show how technology can be utilised to do things a teacher literally cannot do, even if they had all the time (and energy!) in the world. The session will be of interest to literacy specialists – and any class teachers concerned about meeting individual needs within their primary or secondary schools.
12:50 PM - 1:05 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:45 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM Strategic Planning for Schools - Hope is not a Strategy!
We invite senior administrative staff responsible for the long-term future of their school to collaborate during this session. Whether you are the Principal, Business Manager, Advancement Manager, Enrollments Manager, on the Board or any other senior executive, you will learn a great deal about what information is available and how to access it for better business decisions at your school. Most schools have a Strategic Plan, and this session is to explain the information that is available for you to have a data-based plan to assist your school in making good long-term decisions. 		Mindflight7 Workshop - Virtual Reality it's not all about the tech!!
Participants will learn the recipe of how to craft effective lesson plans that leverage VR to boost student engagement, enrich their learning journeys, and improve academic results. Emphasis will be placed on VR's potential to support key subject areas such as general sciences, HASS, Health & PE including Wellbeing and Digital Technologies (Digitech), empowering students to explore and learn in innovative ways.
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:00 PM - 2:40 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM Designing Spaces for Growth: Creating Classrooms that Cultivate Meta skills
How can the design of a classroom unlock students’ potential and foster the skills they need to thrive? In this inspiring session, you’ll explore how thoughtfully designed spaces can shape learner attitudes like creativity, resilience, and critical thinking. By focusing on key meta skills, you’ll discover how to create learning environments that truly support growth, engagement, and success. Together, we’ll reimagine classrooms as even more dynamic spaces that encourage students to develop the skills they need for the future and reflect on the practical elements that bring these ideas to life. 		The Science of student success: Lessons from a million learners
Drawing on data from over a million students using Atomi, this talk dives into how Australian students learn and retain information. By analysing patterns in engagement and outcomes, we’ll uncover surprising insights into classroom behaviour and learning efficacy. Most importantly, we’ll explore how simple, evidence-backed tweaks can lead to dramatic improvements in student engagement and academic success.
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM Moving across the Indigenous Cultural Responsiveness continuum in Teacher Education
In this session, participants will delve into the significance of cultural responsiveness in education, exploring practical strategies to integrate these practices into their teaching. Participants will be introduced to a comprehensive toolkit designed to enhance cultural responsiveness, promote self-reflection, and create supportive, culturally safe environments, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and staff. By the end of this session, attendees will feel inspired and motivated to actively contribute to fostering cultural safety in Australian schools and beyond, recognising the critical importance of inclusivity and diversity in education. 		This is the Connection You're Looking for: Building the Classroom of the Future
The classroom of the future isn't just about technology, it’s about creating a learning environment rooted in sustainable connections that foster student growth, engagement, and well-being. In this session, Matt will explore how future classrooms can thrive through a focus on whole school connection. Drawing on The Connection Curriculum framework and its practical application in building relationships, fostering belonging, and creating meaning, Matt will share strategies to enhance student learning outcomes while promoting teacher well-being. Attendees will leave with actionable insights to create learning spaces that bridge the gap between academic excellence and deep human connection, preparing students for a future where collaboration, creativity, and community matter more than ever.
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM

Round Table Discussion
AI in the Classroom
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM An AI Odyssey – Navigating the Future of Education"
Embark on a captivating journey with Brett Salakas, 2024 Most Influential Educator in Australia, as he explores the transformative landscape of Artificial Intelligence in education through the lens of Homer's epic, The Odyssey. Brett intertwines the timeless narrative of Odysseus with the modern voyage educators undertake in integrating AI into leadership and strategic practice. Discover the metaphorical "storms" that can blow your initiatives off course, identify the "monsters" and pitfalls to avoid, and learn about the "compass points" that will guide you towards successful and meaningful AI integration. Brett will also showcase a selection of practical AI tools and applications designed to empower school leaders and aspiring leaders, enhancing decision-making, administrative efficiency, and educational outcomes. Join this insightful session to equip yourself with the knowledge and strategies needed to confidently steer your school community through the evolving seas of AI technology.
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM Student Wellbeing, Connection and Belonging in the Age of AI + Tech
In this interactive discussion, we’ll explore how the rapid rise of AI and other disruptive technologies is reshaping the classroom experience, from challenging traditional assessment practices to influencing how students connect, create, and find meaning in their learning. Together, we’ll unpack how schools can harness AI not as a threat, but as an opportunity to deepen critical thinking, enhance creativity, and foster authentic student engagement. We’ll also discuss practical strategies to protect and promote student wellbeing, identity, and belonging in this tech-driven age, ensuring human connection stays at the heart of education.
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM Navigating the challenges and opportunities of AI in education
With AI reshaping industries, schools have a responsibility to prepare students for a future transformed by these tools. The rapid advancement of AI brings both exciting possibilities and complexities to the classroom. This presentation will focus on ways to design curriculum that equips students to both utilise AI and critically assess its outputs.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM In-the-Moment Tools for Student Wellbeing
High school students are under more pressure than ever, yet with academic, extracurricular, and social demands filling their days, most don’t have time for traditional wellbeing practices. With short attention spans and few moments to pause, they need tools that work in the moment. This discussion explores practical, science-backed strategies, such as breathwork, that can be used in under a minute to reduce stress, improve focus, and help students feel more in control. We’ll also share a few of these tools so you can experience their immediate impact.
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM AI and Machine Learning - a gentle introduction
AI is everywhere at the moment, and as exciting (or scary) as it is, it can be daunting to know where to start. Let's explore coding projects for 8-13 years olds that provide a gentle introduction to AI and machine learning where our young people are the ones creating the tech, to understand better what it can do. Take away some free resources and share the ones that you like to use.
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM Think Like a Machine, Teach Like A Dream: Using computational thinking to supercharge your teacher productivity with AI
Let’s explore how computational thinking can transform teaching workflows by leveraging AI as a productivity multiplier. By breaking down tasks into smaller components, teachers can "farm out" repetitive or ideation-heavy processes to AI tools. While AI isn't great at delivering high-quality final outputs, it excels at brainstorming, generating ideas, and offering initial feedback, freeing teachers to focus on more nuanced and creative aspects of their work. I will demonstrate how AI can handle differentiation, data analysis, and ideation, helping teachers work smarter, not harder.
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM Lunch
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM Assistive Technology in the Classroom
We will discuss what works and what doesn’t – with a focus on students with reading difficulties. Come along and share ideas and learn new strategies.
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM Discussion: Integrating AI Technologies into Classroom Practice
We will have an open discussion about Strategies, Experiences, Ethical Considerations, and the Future of AI in Education.
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM Keeping it Positive -An Innovative Approach to Aligning with the ACARA Sustainability Cross Curricular Priority
Meet the makers of the Stay Tuned to Our Planet (STTOP) team and learn about their new educational program along with key learnings on teaching about environmental issues and sustainability. Adapted from the YouTuber hosted STTOP online series, the 64+ educational resources support teaching about sustainability and deliver innovative and dynamic activities students can do at school and at home. Mapped to the Sciences and Humanities Australian Curriculum the resources are aimed at years 5-6, and 7-9 and come with a Teacher Support Resource co-authored by the Orygen Institute, headspace and Psychology for a Safe Climate, Climate Emotions in the Classroom: Practical Tips for Teachers.
12:50 PM - 1:05 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM Think Tank
Our MC will facilitate a group discussion around: • If AI can personalise learning better than a teacher, what is the teacher’s evolving role? • How do we ensure transparency, fairness, and student safety? • What tasks can AI take over, and what must remain human-led? • How do we teach students to critically engage with AI tools?
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM Learning design in the age of Gen AI
This interactive session dips a toe in the Gen AI waters in relation to designing units of work. Whether you’re an old-school purist, an adventurous techy or just plain curious, we’ll take a look at the role of Gen AI in supporting teachers to create high quality units of work. A brief demonstration, focusing on Wiggins and McTighe’s Understanding by Design approach in combination with the Quality Teaching Model, will provide food for thought as well as some useful tips to guide your AI journey. Bring an open mind with a clear idea of the important concepts you’d like your students to grasp in an upcoming unit of work. Let’s have some fun!
1:30 PM - 1:45 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM Afternoon Tea
2:00 PM - 2:40 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM Purpose Topography Project - AI
The Purpose Topography Project - AI, is a transformative initiative that seeks to redefine educational paradigms in the context of artificial intelligence. As part of a PhD project at the University of Technology Sydney, this workshop aims to explore how AI can enhance and reshape our understanding of the purpose of education for a sustainable and thriving future. Participants will engage in a dynamic mapping exercise to visualize their perspectives on how AI can redefine educational objectives globally. The workshop will consist of three key phases: 1. Exploring AI’s Role in Education - participants will embark on a global exploration of AI's impact on educational purpose, examining literature and case studies from various contexts. 2. Interactive Mapping of Perspectives - building on the innovative research methodology, participants will engage in peer interviews during the session. This will allow them to articulate their views on AI's role in education and how these views may evolve. 3. Commitments to Action - finally, we will discuss the future implications of AI in education, encouraging participants to formulate personal action plans.
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM Free time to explore AI programs in the expo
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM Decoding Big Tobacco: A collaborative dive into the influence of vaping and nicotine pouches on youth
Join us for a hands-on roundtable discussion where we dig into how vaping and nicotine pouches are being cleverly marketed to young people. These products are designed to confuse, mislead, and hook a new generation—and schools are on the front line. Together, we will explore how to go beyond health facts and spark meaningful conversations that help students see through the smoke and mirrors. You will leave with fresh insights, classroom-ready strategies, and resources to strengthen your wellbeing programs. Bring your curiosity and your voice—this is a space to share, challenge, and collaborate.
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM

Wellbeing for Future Focused Schools
Diverse Learners
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM You Had One Job
Do you remember a time when a School Leader’s job seemed simple and straight forward? It was, you know… to lead the school! But somewhere across the years we absorbed an inordinate number of ancillary responsibilities as educators and now it can feel as though we’re not specialising, making a difference in what matters or even working in our purpose. That needs to stop. Adam will challenge you to re-imagine your school leadership as a leader of school culture. That really can be your ‘one job’ if we get clear on what culture is, how it underpins every school objective, how it promotes strong practice, optimises wellbeing and why it’s the practical work you were born to do in your school every single day.
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM Anxiety: What Your Students Need you to Know
Research shows us that 1 in 3 females and 1 in 5 males will experience an anxiety condition in their lifetime with the median onset age now being 15 years young. Statistics around anxiety are increasing at a rapid rate amongst our young people. In this presentation we will cover the science behind anxiety and how to explain this to your young people. We will share top tips for supporting your students with anxiety, and how to empower them with strategies to manage their anxieties on their own, both in and outside of the classroom.
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM Who Cares for the Carers?
This workshop isn't just about understanding your own well being and burnout; it's about transforming your approach to teaching to create a thriving, sustainable environment. Those that attend will walk away with actionable strategies and tools. • Reconsider key behaviours including, saying 'yes' to everything • Identify and Address Burnout Factors • Address workload and workplace culture including work ethic, alignment of values, recovery and the ability to switch off. • Focus on Personal Recovery: Emphasise the importance of personal recovery and where your organisational responsibility lies. Focus on your own well-being and recovery.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM Neuroaffirming practices to support diverse learners
The Diverse Learners Hub is a key school workforce capability initiative of the Victorian Government's Disability Inclusion reform that is being delivered by the Department of Education and in 2025 will have been rolled out to all Victorian government schools across the state. Disability Inclusion is a strengths-based approach to inclusive education, with a focus on what students can do rather than what they can't. The presentation will specifically focus on the importance of neuro-affirming practices for diverse learners in schools.
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM Morning Tea Morning Tea
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM Strategies for educator well-being in the real world
Participants will discuss practical strategies for their professional wellbeing in managing the demands of the current workload on educators. The session will be set in the context of the new Rite to Disconnect legislation, the current expectations of employers and parents, and the reality that educators face in the real world. 		Understand the neurological aspects of literacy development - and learn to meet all the needs in your classroom
This session will cover the neuroscience behind transitioning from conscious decoding to genuine reading fluency. It will examine why some students struggle with this transition and how to utilize correct methodology and modern teaching tools to help them suceed. Participants will be introduced to an online tool which allows teachers to track a student's progress towards fluency using the Visual Word Form Area of the Brain. There will also be an opportunity to trial this tool with their own learners.
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM Strengtening Connections to Promote Student Attendance
What is connection and why is it so vital to the relationship between educator and student? What role does feeling connected to school play in attendance? And what is our role as educators to facilitate this sense of connection with our students? We will highlight the importance of connection in the lives of our young people and the role that connection plays in increased school attendance. We will; understand the vital role connection plays for a young person in showing up to school and engaging in academic and social activities within the school community; empower you as educators with many useful strategies, tools and activities to use both inside and outside of the classroom to help create solid foundations for connection; highlight the power of teacher vulnerability and how to encourage your students to want to connect with you and their classmates to foster a greater sense of wellbeing and community within the classroom and beyond. 		Classroom habits, intentional routines that serve both students and teachers.
Classrooms are highly complex ecosystems with a lot happening below the surface. This session is designed to help teachers build habits and routines for both themselves and their students that reduce friction, build a sense of community and belonging, empower students and create a space where students succeed and the joy returns to our teaching. While a small proportion of students will require significant interventions outside of the classroom, there are powerful strategies that meet the needs of many learners who currently find school hard. This session draws on research in psychology and pedagogy to focus on creating a classroom where diverse learners experience success, grow in confidence and make genuine progress.
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch Break Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:50 PM - 1:05 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:45 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM Discussion time
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM Navigating Burnout - Beyond the Pressure of Self Care
Despite more wellness programs, mental health days, and resilience training, burnout rates are rising. Why? Because we’re still treating burnout with “stop gap chunks”. Self Care is important but won’t support a workforce whose biology is simply not self care ready. In thus session we will ditch the myths holding us back and have immediate actions to take without putting more on your plate. Walk away knowing you can have the energy to truly make a difference in the world. Because thriving isn’t a luxury—it’s the future of good education. Modelling this as teachers is setting our students up to avoid the overwhelm epidemic.
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM Our actions. Our impact. Our responsibility
This session will change how you see behaviour management. Dr Caroline Blackley’s research highlights the real change required to move from transactional to transformational interactions that create productive teaching and learning environments. Sharing current school stories that represent what teaching with less disruption looks like through the lens of data. Sharing the metrics to verify that we can measure the ‘feel’ of a school culture with validity and reliability.
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:00 PM - 2:40 PM Developing Social and Emotionally Intelligent Classrooms & Schools
This interactive session will allow participants to experience what a socially and emotionally intelligent classroom looks and feels like using three main strategic processes: culturally responsive teaching, data-informed decision-making, and ethically responsible leadership. The presenter will also provide a toolbox for participants to take back and use in their classrooms and across their schools as they continue to develop their focus on sustained well-being within their schools. Please bring a device to participate fully in this presentation.
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM Autism in schools & mental health in children/teens
Kerryn is an autistic woman diagnosed at the age of 30 with Asperger's Syndrome. Her session will describe her very early days where she had no support or assistance in the classroom and didn't have the tools or early intervention. She will speak about comprehension/imagination, impairment of the autistic child/teen/adult. She will also provide information on the mental health of the child/teen/adult via her lived experience sharing strategies that may help you or your students to thrive!
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM Student management in difficult times
Managing student behaviours in today’s classrooms has become increasingly complex, particularly in the context of post-COVID learning environments and the evolving dynamics of Generation Z and Alpha students. In this presentation, we will explore the unique challenges educators face, including issues of engagement, disruptive behaviours, and the pressures of meeting diverse needs within schools. We will address how shifting worldviews, cultural expectations, and heightened student anxieties have compounded these difficulties, possibly making traditional approaches less effective. By drawing on real-life examples and current research offering practical strategies for creating a positive classroom environment that balances discipline with care. Educators will leave with a deeper understanding of the root causes of behaviour challenges and a toolkit of solutions aimed at promoting holistic student growth and positive classroom culture aligned with modern pedagogical insights.
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM

Research to Reality for Aspiring Leaders
Mindflight7 Demonstration
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM Our orientation
The first module establishes a framer in which to situate our leadership. Subsequent modules explore other aspects of leadership in relation to this framer. Participants are asked to identify (and subsequently ‘track’) a school-based challenge from their own setting, reflecting deeply on current practices and approaches, applying new knowledge and skills to that challenge as the modules are unpacked.
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Working in the Complexity
Exploring complexity and systems thinking as influencers on our work as leaders Consideration of the implications for our school improvement journeys This module exposes participants to current evidence-based theories and constructs which seek to describe the emergent challenges facing school leaders. Using a social constructivist approach, the module will orientate participants to the theories and allow for the drawing of connections to own contexts. We will share perspectives and reflect, consolidate and plan for action in the light of new knowledge and understanding. Prerequisites: Participants are asked to bring along their school’s current strategic improvement plan and/or annual action plan.
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Research to Reality for Aspiring Leaders
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 1 – VR Anatomy Lab: Dive into Immersive Dissections
Unleash the power of virtual reality in the classroom with Mindflight7's VR Anatomy Lab. Dive into hands-on frog dissections, mastering complex biological systems and laboratory safety without the need for real specimens.
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Morning Tea
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 2 – Career Compass VR: Experience Your Futures in Action
Chart your course to success with Mindflight7's Career Compass VR, where students can virtually explore a wide range of career paths through hands-on, immersive VR experiences. This interactive session fosters a growth mindset and empowers students to make informed choices and confident decisions about their academic and professional futures.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM Cultivating collective efficacy (CE)
Conceptual framework exploring the mindsets, skillsets and toolsets Exploring the links to leadership capabilities Given the ascribed impact CE can have on improving student learning outcomes, this module explores current research describing conditions conducive to CE. Participants will draw upon their own experiences of leaders and leadership; and consider their own capabilities when fostering professional growth in others. Prerequisites: Participants are asked to bring along their current school’s professional appraisal approach.
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 3 – Math Worlds VR: Visualize Infinity Line
Empower your students to conquer mathematical challenges with Mindflight7's Math Worlds VR, part of a revolutionary six-app series specifically designed to tackle prevalent misconceptions. Immerse yourself in interactive visualizations of abstract ideas, from infinity lines to place value, fostering clarity and confidence in every learner.
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM Using evidence-informed improvement tools
Exploring the domains of highly effective school leadership Consideration of how to create schoolwide evidence-informed approaches to improved student learning and wellbeing outcomes Using ACER’s School Improvement Tool (SIT) and the Principal Performance Improvement Tool (PPIT), participants will explore the practices of effective leadership and how leaders grow the effectiveness of their teachers. Prerequisites: Participants will be provided with copies of the SIT and the PPIT.
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 4 – Virtual Art Studio: Sculpting Imagination in 3D
Embrace your inner artist in a revolutionary immersive environment, where you'll explore the differences between realistic and abstract art and sculpt your own 3D masterpieces individually or collaboratively. This experience empowers students to express ideas and perspectives in a dynamic, digital medium, fostering creativity and artistic skill.
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:50 PM - 1:05 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 5 – Ecosystems Adventures VR: Explore Environments Firsthand
Embark on an incredible virtual journey to explore diverse ecosystems and their intricate workings across the globe. This immersive experience allows students to delve into critical topics like biodiversity, animal adaptation, and the impact of natural disasters and climate change fostering a deeper understanding of our planet's environments and their interconnectedness.
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:45 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 6 – Build your own lesson plan using VR
Discover how to revolutionize your teaching by integrating cutting-edge virtual reality into your curriculum to deliver the key learning outcomes. This interactive session will showcase how versatile VR applications can be used to create engaging and immersive learning experiences across various subjects, from languages to creative arts.
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Approaching implementation
Making explicit the links between strategic leadership and effective implementation of strategies Evaluating widely used implementation approaches Participants will explore what constitutes effective implementation of improvement strategies. In assessing various approaches, and by reflecting on lived experiences of implementing strategies in schools, participants will be asked to consider dosage, fidelity, quality and acceptability (Albers et al 2017) as measures of effectiveness. Prerequisites: Nil.
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM Mindflight7 Speaker Session in the Classroom of the Future: Mindflight7 Workshop – Virtual Reality it’s Not All About Tech!”
Learn how to strategically embed virtual reality into your library, positioning it as a dynamic center for future-focused learning and student engagement. This session will inform librarians about diverse VR programs that support subjects like science, mathematics, humanities, and enable students to create impactful 360-degree content, demonstrating how to make your library an indispensable hub for 21st-century education.
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:00 PM - 2:40 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 7 – Trades in VR: Hands-On Skills for Future Careers
Get a realistic preview of exciting trade careers through immersive virtual reality, allowing students to safely experience hands-on skills in fields like forklift driving, pole-top rescue, and plumbing safety. This innovative session offers practical insight into the diverse world of trades, preparing the next generation for in-demand professions.
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM Synthesis
Consolidation of a response to a contextual challenge Collaborating to adjust/finetune next steps Participants will return to their current challenge and using a placemat, further unpack leadership for improvement. Collaborating with others, there is an opportunity to apply the learnings gained at this workshop. Prerequisites: Specific contextual challenge.
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM Discussion
Discussion of ongoing networking and professional learning.

Book Signing Nook
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM Lea Waters, Director, Visible Wellbeing
Author of The Strength Switch
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM Andrew Oberthur, Principal, St Columba’s Wilston
Author of: • Are you Ready for School? • Balance • The School Leadership Juggle
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:50 PM - 1:05 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:45 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM Matt Pitman, Head of Senior School, Catholic Regional College, Caroline Springs
Author of The Connection Curriculum
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:00 PM - 2:40 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM

Knowledge Centre Program
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM Top Super Tips for Teachers
Join Jarrod Pye, Aware's super experienced, super professional for top tips on: • Starting your teaching role, the impact of study and travel breaks, setting up protection for the unexpected • Good financial health - saving and managing debt (including HECS/HELP) • Super - ways to grow your super, easy ways to contribute, saving for your first home with super • Case studies and resources will be included
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM Click Against Hate: Empower Students to Stand Up, Speak Out and Create Change
1 in 5 kids have been bullied online. 1 in 7 adults have been targeted by online hate speech. What if your school could empower students to challenge hate, promote inclusion, and become digital citizens who make a difference? Join us for an exclusive tour of Click Against Hate – a free forever, cutting-edge online education program funded by the Australian Federal Government. Redesigned and reimagined, this powerful resource equips primary and secondary students with the knowledge and tools to navigate complex topics such as online dangers, racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, homophobia, freedom of speech, cyberbullying, and more. Be part of the change. Click Against Hate is Free Forever – and your school can start today.
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM Delivering an inclusive online school
BlendED have crafted and implemented a visionary approach to delivering online learning grounded in the principles of wrap-around support, inclusivity, and accessible pathways to success for students facing complex social, emotional, and academic challenges. Dan and Richie will share BlendED’s approach to delivering a truly inclusive online school, their strategy for delivering comprehensive support, and the tailored learning experiences designed to engage both students and teachers. Their commitment to creating a flexible, student-centred learning environment is reshaping online education and providing life-changing opportunities for young people who need it most.
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM Exploring the impact of AI and Digital Literacy on Education
Teaching digital literacy is different from teaching digital skills, which has traditionally received more focus. However, the rise of generative artificial intelligence has made it essential for educators to enhance digital literacy among young people, preparing them to navigate the future digital landscape. Join us as we explore strategies for emphasising key areas such as AI and media literacy. We will also share practical resources and ideas that you can implement in the classroom.
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM Powerful PD: Focusing on the teaching rather than the teacher
This thought-provoking session explores a form of evidence-backed PD that honours the complexity of teaching, while affirming high-quality current practice. Multiple, rigorous studies have demonstrated that Quality Teaching (QT) Rounds impact positively on teacher learning, teaching practice and student achievement.
12:50 PM - 1:05 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:45 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM Strategic Planning for Schools - Hope is not a Strategy!
We invite senior administrative staff responsible for the long-term future of their school to collaborate during this session. Whether you are the Principal, Business Manager, Advancement Manager, Enrollments Manager, on the Board or any other senior executive, you will learn a great deal about what information is available and how to access it for better business decisions at your school. Most schools have a Strategic Plan, and this session is to explain the information that is available for you to have a data-based plan to assist your school in making good long-term decisions.
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:00 PM - 2:40 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM Designing Spaces for Growth: Creating Classrooms that Cultivate Meta skills
How can the design of a classroom unlock students’ potential and foster the skills they need to thrive? In this inspiring session, you’ll explore how thoughtfully designed spaces can shape learner attitudes like creativity, resilience, and critical thinking. By focusing on key meta skills, you’ll discover how to create learning environments that truly support growth, engagement, and success. Together, we’ll reimagine classrooms as even more dynamic spaces that encourage students to develop the skills they need for the future and reflect on the practical elements that bring these ideas to life.
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM Moving across the Indigenous Cultural Responsiveness continuum in Teacher Education
In this session, participants will delve into the significance of cultural responsiveness in education, exploring practical strategies to integrate these practices into their teaching. Participants will be introduced to a comprehensive toolkit designed to enhance cultural responsiveness, promote self-reflection, and create supportive, culturally safe environments, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and staff. By the end of this session, attendees will feel inspired and motivated to actively contribute to fostering cultural safety in Australian schools and beyond, recognising the critical importance of inclusivity and diversity in education.
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM

Classroom of The Future
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM SHARING A HISTORY OF EMBEDDING THRASS across numerous schools
THRASS is excited to be the sponsor of ‘The Classroom of the Future’. Discover the fun and success of using THRASS. Join us as we take you on a deep dive into the ultimate tool to teach the English writing code - the THRASS chart. The chart enables you to explain how the reading and writing system ‘really’ works. We will expose the ‘trickery’ embedded in letter-to-sound phonics programs that can lead our learners into ‘code confusion’, where even simple two-letter words become difficult and ‘tricky’! Discover why over the decades we have the same common misspellings such as ‘have written as hav’, ‘was written as woz’, ‘come written as cum’, ‘they written as thay’ etc, and the answer to how we can close this literacy gap. Watch as we show you how the THRASS chart is used to teach, remediate and revise, giving learners a constant reference point to revisit phoneme-to-grapheme information. This one tool can be used to teach phonemic awareness, the Alphabet, phonics, blends, syllables, morphemes, orthography and etymology, and it doesn't stop there. The same chart is used for oral language, teaching story writing and teaching grammar rules. Equip yourself with the ultimate literacy teaching resource and provide your learners with a tool that will enable them to make the connections needed to understand the English writing system.
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM Bridging Hearts and Minds – AI for Human Connection in the Classroom
Through vivid examples and actionable insights, this presentation will demonstrate how AI can be a bridge—not a barrier—to nurturing empathy, inclusivity, and meaningful dialogue in the classroom. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover how technology, when used responsibly, can amplify the heart of education: human connection.
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM The recharging power of mini wellbeing moments: Replenishing students, staff and leader wellbeing
Running on empty - an apt phrase for educators right now. How can we revitalise our students in ways that also recharge us? Order of Australia recipient, Professor Lea Waters, PhD, will draw on Positive Psychology research and Neuroscience to show how mini moments of wellbeing (less than 2 minutes) can undo stress and uplift us. Practical ways to build micro moments into daily life at school will be discussed.
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM Teens and Screens
In the modern world we require students to have access to devices to enhance their education. Yet in doing so, we are inadvertently arming them with a potentially lethal weapon. This session will provide an insight into some of the key issues experienced by young people online, and the impact they are having on their mental health. We will also provide readily implementable solutions to support students in this space.
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM Technology or teachers?
There is a well-recognised conflict between those who advocate that technology can take over much of the teaching in our classrooms, and those who feel that replacing teachers with computers is just plain wrong. The feeling seems to be that explicit teaching is fundamentally inconsistent with using technology. However, there’s a different way of looking at this. This session will use StepsWeb, a leading online literacy program, to illustrate how technology can free a teacher up and enhance the ability of a teacher to genuinely meet the individual needs of their students within a busy classroom. It will show how technology can be utilised to do things a teacher literally cannot do, even if they had all the time (and energy!) in the world. The session will be of interest to literacy specialists – and any class teachers concerned about meeting individual needs within their primary or secondary schools.
12:50 PM - 1:05 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:45 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM Mindflight7 Workshop - Virtual Reality it's not all about the tech!!
Participants will learn the recipe of how to craft effective lesson plans that leverage VR to boost student engagement, enrich their learning journeys, and improve academic results. Emphasis will be placed on VR's potential to support key subject areas such as general sciences, HASS, Health & PE including Wellbeing and Digital Technologies (Digitech), empowering students to explore and learn in innovative ways.
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:00 PM - 2:40 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM The Science of student success: Lessons from a million learners
Drawing on data from over a million students using Atomi, this talk dives into how Australian students learn and retain information. By analysing patterns in engagement and outcomes, we’ll uncover surprising insights into classroom behaviour and learning efficacy. Most importantly, we’ll explore how simple, evidence-backed tweaks can lead to dramatic improvements in student engagement and academic success.
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM This is the Connection You're Looking for: Building the Classroom of the Future
The classroom of the future isn't just about technology, it’s about creating a learning environment rooted in sustainable connections that foster student growth, engagement, and well-being. In this session, Matt will explore how future classrooms can thrive through a focus on whole school connection. Drawing on The Connection Curriculum framework and its practical application in building relationships, fostering belonging, and creating meaning, Matt will share strategies to enhance student learning outcomes while promoting teacher well-being. Attendees will leave with actionable insights to create learning spaces that bridge the gap between academic excellence and deep human connection, preparing students for a future where collaboration, creativity, and community matter more than ever.
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM

Round Table Discussion
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM Student Wellbeing, Connection and Belonging in the Age of AI + Tech
In this interactive discussion, we’ll explore how the rapid rise of AI and other disruptive technologies is reshaping the classroom experience, from challenging traditional assessment practices to influencing how students connect, create, and find meaning in their learning. Together, we’ll unpack how schools can harness AI not as a threat, but as an opportunity to deepen critical thinking, enhance creativity, and foster authentic student engagement. We’ll also discuss practical strategies to protect and promote student wellbeing, identity, and belonging in this tech-driven age, ensuring human connection stays at the heart of education.
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM In-the-Moment Tools for Student Wellbeing
High school students are under more pressure than ever, yet with academic, extracurricular, and social demands filling their days, most don’t have time for traditional wellbeing practices. With short attention spans and few moments to pause, they need tools that work in the moment. This discussion explores practical, science-backed strategies, such as breathwork, that can be used in under a minute to reduce stress, improve focus, and help students feel more in control. We’ll also share a few of these tools so you can experience their immediate impact.
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM AI and Machine Learning - a gentle introduction
AI is everywhere at the moment, and as exciting (or scary) as it is, it can be daunting to know where to start. Let's explore coding projects for 8-13 years olds that provide a gentle introduction to AI and machine learning where our young people are the ones creating the tech, to understand better what it can do. Take away some free resources and share the ones that you like to use.
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM Assistive Technology in the Classroom
We will discuss what works and what doesn’t – with a focus on students with reading difficulties. Come along and share ideas and learn new strategies.
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM Keeping it Positive -An Innovative Approach to Aligning with the ACARA Sustainability Cross Curricular Priority
Meet the makers of the Stay Tuned to Our Planet (STTOP) team and learn about their new educational program along with key learnings on teaching about environmental issues and sustainability. Adapted from the YouTuber hosted STTOP online series, the 64+ educational resources support teaching about sustainability and deliver innovative and dynamic activities students can do at school and at home. Mapped to the Sciences and Humanities Australian Curriculum the resources are aimed at years 5-6, and 7-9 and come with a Teacher Support Resource co-authored by the Orygen Institute, headspace and Psychology for a Safe Climate, Climate Emotions in the Classroom: Practical Tips for Teachers.
12:50 PM - 1:05 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:45 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:00 PM - 2:40 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM Decoding Big Tobacco: A collaborative dive into the influence of vaping and nicotine pouches on youth
Join us for a hands-on roundtable discussion where we dig into how vaping and nicotine pouches are being cleverly marketed to young people. These products are designed to confuse, mislead, and hook a new generation—and schools are on the front line. Together, we will explore how to go beyond health facts and spark meaningful conversations that help students see through the smoke and mirrors. You will leave with fresh insights, classroom-ready strategies, and resources to strengthen your wellbeing programs. Bring your curiosity and your voice—this is a space to share, challenge, and collaborate.
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM

AI in the Classroom
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM An AI Odyssey – Navigating the Future of Education"
Embark on a captivating journey with Brett Salakas, 2024 Most Influential Educator in Australia, as he explores the transformative landscape of Artificial Intelligence in education through the lens of Homer's epic, The Odyssey. Brett intertwines the timeless narrative of Odysseus with the modern voyage educators undertake in integrating AI into leadership and strategic practice. Discover the metaphorical "storms" that can blow your initiatives off course, identify the "monsters" and pitfalls to avoid, and learn about the "compass points" that will guide you towards successful and meaningful AI integration. Brett will also showcase a selection of practical AI tools and applications designed to empower school leaders and aspiring leaders, enhancing decision-making, administrative efficiency, and educational outcomes. Join this insightful session to equip yourself with the knowledge and strategies needed to confidently steer your school community through the evolving seas of AI technology.
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM Navigating the challenges and opportunities of AI in education
With AI reshaping industries, schools have a responsibility to prepare students for a future transformed by these tools. The rapid advancement of AI brings both exciting possibilities and complexities to the classroom. This presentation will focus on ways to design curriculum that equips students to both utilise AI and critically assess its outputs.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM Think Like a Machine, Teach Like A Dream: Using computational thinking to supercharge your teacher productivity with AI
Let’s explore how computational thinking can transform teaching workflows by leveraging AI as a productivity multiplier. By breaking down tasks into smaller components, teachers can "farm out" repetitive or ideation-heavy processes to AI tools. While AI isn't great at delivering high-quality final outputs, it excels at brainstorming, generating ideas, and offering initial feedback, freeing teachers to focus on more nuanced and creative aspects of their work. I will demonstrate how AI can handle differentiation, data analysis, and ideation, helping teachers work smarter, not harder.
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM Lunch
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM Discussion: Integrating AI Technologies into Classroom Practice
We will have an open discussion about Strategies, Experiences, Ethical Considerations, and the Future of AI in Education.
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:50 PM - 1:05 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM Think Tank
Our MC will facilitate a group discussion around: • If AI can personalise learning better than a teacher, what is the teacher’s evolving role? • How do we ensure transparency, fairness, and student safety? • What tasks can AI take over, and what must remain human-led? • How do we teach students to critically engage with AI tools?
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM Learning design in the age of Gen AI
This interactive session dips a toe in the Gen AI waters in relation to designing units of work. Whether you’re an old-school purist, an adventurous techy or just plain curious, we’ll take a look at the role of Gen AI in supporting teachers to create high quality units of work. A brief demonstration, focusing on Wiggins and McTighe’s Understanding by Design approach in combination with the Quality Teaching Model, will provide food for thought as well as some useful tips to guide your AI journey. Bring an open mind with a clear idea of the important concepts you’d like your students to grasp in an upcoming unit of work. Let’s have some fun!
1:30 PM - 1:45 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM Afternoon Tea
2:00 PM - 2:40 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM Purpose Topography Project - AI
The Purpose Topography Project - AI, is a transformative initiative that seeks to redefine educational paradigms in the context of artificial intelligence. As part of a PhD project at the University of Technology Sydney, this workshop aims to explore how AI can enhance and reshape our understanding of the purpose of education for a sustainable and thriving future. Participants will engage in a dynamic mapping exercise to visualize their perspectives on how AI can redefine educational objectives globally. The workshop will consist of three key phases: 1. Exploring AI’s Role in Education - participants will embark on a global exploration of AI's impact on educational purpose, examining literature and case studies from various contexts. 2. Interactive Mapping of Perspectives - building on the innovative research methodology, participants will engage in peer interviews during the session. This will allow them to articulate their views on AI's role in education and how these views may evolve. 3. Commitments to Action - finally, we will discuss the future implications of AI in education, encouraging participants to formulate personal action plans.
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM Free time to explore AI programs in the expo
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM

Wellbeing for Future Focused Schools
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM You Had One Job
Do you remember a time when a School Leader’s job seemed simple and straight forward? It was, you know… to lead the school! But somewhere across the years we absorbed an inordinate number of ancillary responsibilities as educators and now it can feel as though we’re not specialising, making a difference in what matters or even working in our purpose. That needs to stop. Adam will challenge you to re-imagine your school leadership as a leader of school culture. That really can be your ‘one job’ if we get clear on what culture is, how it underpins every school objective, how it promotes strong practice, optimises wellbeing and why it’s the practical work you were born to do in your school every single day.
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM Who Cares for the Carers?
This workshop isn't just about understanding your own well being and burnout; it's about transforming your approach to teaching to create a thriving, sustainable environment. Those that attend will walk away with actionable strategies and tools. • Reconsider key behaviours including, saying 'yes' to everything • Identify and Address Burnout Factors • Address workload and workplace culture including work ethic, alignment of values, recovery and the ability to switch off. • Focus on Personal Recovery: Emphasise the importance of personal recovery and where your organisational responsibility lies. Focus on your own well-being and recovery.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM Morning Tea
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM Strategies for educator well-being in the real world
Participants will discuss practical strategies for their professional wellbeing in managing the demands of the current workload on educators. The session will be set in the context of the new Rite to Disconnect legislation, the current expectations of employers and parents, and the reality that educators face in the real world.
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM Strengtening Connections to Promote Student Attendance
What is connection and why is it so vital to the relationship between educator and student? What role does feeling connected to school play in attendance? And what is our role as educators to facilitate this sense of connection with our students? We will highlight the importance of connection in the lives of our young people and the role that connection plays in increased school attendance. We will; understand the vital role connection plays for a young person in showing up to school and engaging in academic and social activities within the school community; empower you as educators with many useful strategies, tools and activities to use both inside and outside of the classroom to help create solid foundations for connection; highlight the power of teacher vulnerability and how to encourage your students to want to connect with you and their classmates to foster a greater sense of wellbeing and community within the classroom and beyond.
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:50 PM - 1:05 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:45 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM Navigating Burnout - Beyond the Pressure of Self Care
Despite more wellness programs, mental health days, and resilience training, burnout rates are rising. Why? Because we’re still treating burnout with “stop gap chunks”. Self Care is important but won’t support a workforce whose biology is simply not self care ready. In thus session we will ditch the myths holding us back and have immediate actions to take without putting more on your plate. Walk away knowing you can have the energy to truly make a difference in the world. Because thriving isn’t a luxury—it’s the future of good education. Modelling this as teachers is setting our students up to avoid the overwhelm epidemic.
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:00 PM - 2:40 PM Developing Social and Emotionally Intelligent Classrooms & Schools
This interactive session will allow participants to experience what a socially and emotionally intelligent classroom looks and feels like using three main strategic processes: culturally responsive teaching, data-informed decision-making, and ethically responsible leadership. The presenter will also provide a toolbox for participants to take back and use in their classrooms and across their schools as they continue to develop their focus on sustained well-being within their schools. Please bring a device to participate fully in this presentation.
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM Student management in difficult times
Managing student behaviours in today’s classrooms has become increasingly complex, particularly in the context of post-COVID learning environments and the evolving dynamics of Generation Z and Alpha students. In this presentation, we will explore the unique challenges educators face, including issues of engagement, disruptive behaviours, and the pressures of meeting diverse needs within schools. We will address how shifting worldviews, cultural expectations, and heightened student anxieties have compounded these difficulties, possibly making traditional approaches less effective. By drawing on real-life examples and current research offering practical strategies for creating a positive classroom environment that balances discipline with care. Educators will leave with a deeper understanding of the root causes of behaviour challenges and a toolkit of solutions aimed at promoting holistic student growth and positive classroom culture aligned with modern pedagogical insights.
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM

Diverse Learners
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM Anxiety: What Your Students Need you to Know
Research shows us that 1 in 3 females and 1 in 5 males will experience an anxiety condition in their lifetime with the median onset age now being 15 years young. Statistics around anxiety are increasing at a rapid rate amongst our young people. In this presentation we will cover the science behind anxiety and how to explain this to your young people. We will share top tips for supporting your students with anxiety, and how to empower them with strategies to manage their anxieties on their own, both in and outside of the classroom.
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM Neuroaffirming practices to support diverse learners
The Diverse Learners Hub is a key school workforce capability initiative of the Victorian Government's Disability Inclusion reform that is being delivered by the Department of Education and in 2025 will have been rolled out to all Victorian government schools across the state. Disability Inclusion is a strengths-based approach to inclusive education, with a focus on what students can do rather than what they can't. The presentation will specifically focus on the importance of neuro-affirming practices for diverse learners in schools.
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM Morning Tea
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM Understand the neurological aspects of literacy development - and learn to meet all the needs in your classroom
This session will cover the neuroscience behind transitioning from conscious decoding to genuine reading fluency. It will examine why some students struggle with this transition and how to utilize correct methodology and modern teaching tools to help them suceed. Participants will be introduced to an online tool which allows teachers to track a student's progress towards fluency using the Visual Word Form Area of the Brain. There will also be an opportunity to trial this tool with their own learners.
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM Classroom habits, intentional routines that serve both students and teachers.
Classrooms are highly complex ecosystems with a lot happening below the surface. This session is designed to help teachers build habits and routines for both themselves and their students that reduce friction, build a sense of community and belonging, empower students and create a space where students succeed and the joy returns to our teaching. While a small proportion of students will require significant interventions outside of the classroom, there are powerful strategies that meet the needs of many learners who currently find school hard. This session draws on research in psychology and pedagogy to focus on creating a classroom where diverse learners experience success, grow in confidence and make genuine progress.
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:50 PM - 1:05 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:45 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM Discussion time
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM Our actions. Our impact. Our responsibility
This session will change how you see behaviour management. Dr Caroline Blackley’s research highlights the real change required to move from transactional to transformational interactions that create productive teaching and learning environments. Sharing current school stories that represent what teaching with less disruption looks like through the lens of data. Sharing the metrics to verify that we can measure the ‘feel’ of a school culture with validity and reliability.
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:00 PM - 2:40 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM Autism in schools & mental health in children/teens
Kerryn is an autistic woman diagnosed at the age of 30 with Asperger's Syndrome. Her session will describe her very early days where she had no support or assistance in the classroom and didn't have the tools or early intervention. She will speak about comprehension/imagination, impairment of the autistic child/teen/adult. She will also provide information on the mental health of the child/teen/adult via her lived experience sharing strategies that may help you or your students to thrive!
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM

Research to Reality for Aspiring Leaders
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM Our orientation
The first module establishes a framer in which to situate our leadership. Subsequent modules explore other aspects of leadership in relation to this framer. Participants are asked to identify (and subsequently ‘track’) a school-based challenge from their own setting, reflecting deeply on current practices and approaches, applying new knowledge and skills to that challenge as the modules are unpacked.
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Working in the Complexity
Exploring complexity and systems thinking as influencers on our work as leaders Consideration of the implications for our school improvement journeys This module exposes participants to current evidence-based theories and constructs which seek to describe the emergent challenges facing school leaders. Using a social constructivist approach, the module will orientate participants to the theories and allow for the drawing of connections to own contexts. We will share perspectives and reflect, consolidate and plan for action in the light of new knowledge and understanding. Prerequisites: Participants are asked to bring along their school’s current strategic improvement plan and/or annual action plan.
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Research to Reality for Aspiring Leaders
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Morning Tea
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM Cultivating collective efficacy (CE)
Conceptual framework exploring the mindsets, skillsets and toolsets Exploring the links to leadership capabilities Given the ascribed impact CE can have on improving student learning outcomes, this module explores current research describing conditions conducive to CE. Participants will draw upon their own experiences of leaders and leadership; and consider their own capabilities when fostering professional growth in others. Prerequisites: Participants are asked to bring along their current school’s professional appraisal approach.
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM Using evidence-informed improvement tools
Exploring the domains of highly effective school leadership Consideration of how to create schoolwide evidence-informed approaches to improved student learning and wellbeing outcomes Using ACER’s School Improvement Tool (SIT) and the Principal Performance Improvement Tool (PPIT), participants will explore the practices of effective leadership and how leaders grow the effectiveness of their teachers. Prerequisites: Participants will be provided with copies of the SIT and the PPIT.
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:50 PM - 1:05 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:45 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Approaching implementation
Making explicit the links between strategic leadership and effective implementation of strategies Evaluating widely used implementation approaches Participants will explore what constitutes effective implementation of improvement strategies. In assessing various approaches, and by reflecting on lived experiences of implementing strategies in schools, participants will be asked to consider dosage, fidelity, quality and acceptability (Albers et al 2017) as measures of effectiveness. Prerequisites: Nil.
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:00 PM - 2:40 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM Synthesis
Consolidation of a response to a contextual challenge Collaborating to adjust/finetune next steps Participants will return to their current challenge and using a placemat, further unpack leadership for improvement. Collaborating with others, there is an opportunity to apply the learnings gained at this workshop. Prerequisites: Specific contextual challenge.
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM Discussion
Discussion of ongoing networking and professional learning.

Mindflight7 Demonstration
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 1 – VR Anatomy Lab: Dive into Immersive Dissections
Unleash the power of virtual reality in the classroom with Mindflight7's VR Anatomy Lab. Dive into hands-on frog dissections, mastering complex biological systems and laboratory safety without the need for real specimens.
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 2 – Career Compass VR: Experience Your Futures in Action
Chart your course to success with Mindflight7's Career Compass VR, where students can virtually explore a wide range of career paths through hands-on, immersive VR experiences. This interactive session fosters a growth mindset and empowers students to make informed choices and confident decisions about their academic and professional futures.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 3 – Math Worlds VR: Visualize Infinity Line
Empower your students to conquer mathematical challenges with Mindflight7's Math Worlds VR, part of a revolutionary six-app series specifically designed to tackle prevalent misconceptions. Immerse yourself in interactive visualizations of abstract ideas, from infinity lines to place value, fostering clarity and confidence in every learner.
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 4 – Virtual Art Studio: Sculpting Imagination in 3D
Embrace your inner artist in a revolutionary immersive environment, where you'll explore the differences between realistic and abstract art and sculpt your own 3D masterpieces individually or collaboratively. This experience empowers students to express ideas and perspectives in a dynamic, digital medium, fostering creativity and artistic skill.
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:50 PM - 1:05 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 5 – Ecosystems Adventures VR: Explore Environments Firsthand
Embark on an incredible virtual journey to explore diverse ecosystems and their intricate workings across the globe. This immersive experience allows students to delve into critical topics like biodiversity, animal adaptation, and the impact of natural disasters and climate change fostering a deeper understanding of our planet's environments and their interconnectedness.
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:45 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 6 – Build your own lesson plan using VR
Discover how to revolutionize your teaching by integrating cutting-edge virtual reality into your curriculum to deliver the key learning outcomes. This interactive session will showcase how versatile VR applications can be used to create engaging and immersive learning experiences across various subjects, from languages to creative arts.
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM Mindflight7 Speaker Session in the Classroom of the Future: Mindflight7 Workshop – Virtual Reality it’s Not All About Tech!”
Learn how to strategically embed virtual reality into your library, positioning it as a dynamic center for future-focused learning and student engagement. This session will inform librarians about diverse VR programs that support subjects like science, mathematics, humanities, and enable students to create impactful 360-degree content, demonstrating how to make your library an indispensable hub for 21st-century education.
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:00 PM - 2:40 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 7 – Trades in VR: Hands-On Skills for Future Careers
Get a realistic preview of exciting trade careers through immersive virtual reality, allowing students to safely experience hands-on skills in fields like forklift driving, pole-top rescue, and plumbing safety. This innovative session offers practical insight into the diverse world of trades, preparing the next generation for in-demand professions.
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM

Book Signing Nook
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM Lea Waters, Director, Visible Wellbeing
Author of The Strength Switch
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM Andrew Oberthur, Principal, St Columba’s Wilston
Author of: • Are you Ready for School? • Balance • The School Leadership Juggle
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:50 PM - 1:05 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:45 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM Matt Pitman, Head of Senior School, Catholic Regional College, Caroline Springs
Author of The Connection Curriculum
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:00 PM - 2:40 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM

Friday, August 29, 2025

Knowledge Centre Program
Classroom of the Future
Round Table Discussion
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM Classrooms with less disruption
Student disruption continues to have a major impact on classrooms. What drives teacher decision-making in today’s classrooms — and which decisions boost productivity and wellbeing? In this session we will present the research exploring reflective practice and a simple framework, reshapes teacher decision-making to result in less classroom disruptions. Based on qualitative and quantitative data from interviews, classroom observations, and surveys, the study highlights how this professional learning program will lead to productive, inclusive learning environments. Central to this work is the Four Dimensions Framework supporting teachers in managing classroom behaviour, while reducing cognitive load, through intentional, high-impact decisions. The framework is backed by an extensive database of over 35 000 teacher experiences and classroom data, offering powerful insights into the realities of modern teaching. With teacher attrition rising globally, links to stress and continued behaviour management challenges, this session offers a timely, evidence-based approach to reducing classroom disruption and supporting teacher wellbeing. School leaders change schools. Join us to see the impact of reflective decision-making and this targeted professional learning that transforms teaching practice and learning culture in any school. 		Robotics across the curriculum
In this hands-on workshop we will show how quickly robotics can be used across music, design, maths, and science to save time and improve engagement in the classroom. You can choose to work along with the examples in the presentation, write your own programs for a Micromelon Rover, or watch and see how the robots are used. 		Responsible AI in Education
Cool.org, in collaboration with Melbourne University's Centre for AI and Digital Ethics, has developed a series of professional learning courses designed to support teachers in navigating AI in education. This round table discussion is an opportunity to hear directly from educators about their ethical concerns around the use of AI in schools. Whether you're new to AI or have already undertaken some professional development, we're keen to hear your thoughts and questions. The insights shared will help shape and tailor the courses to ensure they meet the real needs and priorities of educators.
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM What is positive digital citizenship and how can we build it in our classrooms?
After developing an understanding of what digital citizenship looks like for schools, the eSmart team will share insights from their co-design processes of speaking to children and young people about their experiences online. Hear about how understanding how students are engaging in online spaces, their worries and their comforts and how they prefer to learn about online safety has informed eSmart resources for the whole school, including educators and families. 		Playful Learning: Unlocking Engagement and Well-Being in Future Classrooms
Join Paul Campbell, Director of The School of Play, for a transformative experience on the future of education! In this energising talk, Paul invites educators and school leaders to imagine what classrooms could and should look like, where play, fun, and human connection shape the foundation of learning. The future of student engagement and well-being starts here! Why Play is the Future of Learning: In tomorrow's classrooms, play will be more than just a break from academics – it will be an integral part of how students learn, grow, and connect. Play fosters resilience, boosts creativity, and enhances social bonds. This talk will highlight how fun and connection can unlock a new era in education, promoting well-being and engagement that lasts. 		Digital Skills - how libraries and classrooms are making a difference
Hear case studies of running Code Clubs in libraries, schools, neighbourhood centres, and after-school care programs, to see the positive impact they are having with young people developing digital and computational thinking skills. Let's talk about the wealth of free resources available to anyone to run a Code Club, where an inclusive and safe environment creates a space to learn coding. Learn about the coding projects that provide differentiation, share dream time stories, and encourage endless creativity and innovation. Take away some free resources and share the ones that you like to use.
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM Turning Waste into Wonder: Sustainability and the Food Waste Hierarchy
This session empowers K-12 educators to integrate sustainability into their teaching by focusing on the food waste hierarchy. Drawing on resources from Sustainability Victoria and ResourceSmart Schools, the session equips educators with practical strategies and research-based approaches to help students reduce food waste. Attendees will leave with actionable steps to apply the food waste hierarchy in their schools, fostering a culture of sustainability and environmental responsibility. 		Supporting Teacher Wellbeing in the classroom
At Furnware we know that teacher wellbeing is essential. When talking about teacher wellbeing we talk about physical, emotional, mental and professional wellness. When teachers feel supported, they're better equipped to engage with students and foster positive learning experiences. 		Local Voices, Lasting Learning: Telling, Creating and Teaching Through Stories
Where the human superpower of storytelling meets the possibilities of cutting-edge technology. Telling Your Stories is a collaborative, place-based initiative that brings together schools, Indigenous communities, teachers, students, and families to embed cultural and linguistic heritage into literacy learning. Through the co-creation of authentic local narratives, this project weaves storytelling into teaching practice in powerful and practical ways. Please join us for an inspiring conversation and idea sharing.
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM Australian Teaching Assistant Professional Standards – A performance and professional growth framework
This session will introduce you to the Australian Teaching Assistant Professional Standards (ATAPS), an evidence-based framework that supports the performance and professional growth of teaching assistants in all Australian schools. ATAPS aspires to recognise and value the work of teaching assistants as integral members of teaching teams, and their significant contribution to education and the school community. The ATAPS framework defines the professional knowledge, practice, and engagement teaching assistants require to effectively support learning and teaching. The framework embeds inclusive practices, and is underpinned by research on the effective deployment, preparedness, and practice of teaching assistants to maximise student outcomes. 		Now I can Write! How AI, Neuroscience, and the Science of Writing can Transform Student Performance
What happens when you connect Educational AI, Neuroscience, and the Science of Writing? Using the world’s largest case study on writing intervention using Educational AI, former university professor and AI patent holder Dr Ian Hunter explores the profound impact on student performance, joy, confidence, and self-belief that is possible. For any school or school leader concerned about school underperformance in writing, or low student engagement or self-belief around writing, this session is a must see. For those wanting to understand the evidence-backed impact of Educational AI in the classroom and what an effective digital journey in education might look like, this session provides compelling insights and practical applications.
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM Connected Classrooms, Safer Campuses: Leveraging AI and IoT to Solve Education’s Toughest Challenges
Discover through Campusondeck how AI, machine learning, smart detection cameras, and sensors are transforming education by addressing key challenges, such as student's health, security, and inefficient learning environments. Learn how smart cameras enhance security, automate attendance, and help prevent cheating, and how sensors monitor classroom conditions, track occupancy, and support student well-being. Together, these technologies create smarter, safer, and more adaptive learning environments that improve both teaching effectiveness and student outcomes. 		Teaching the Teachers
By promoting empathy, critical thinking, and diverse perspectives, this presentation will encourage fellow educators to explore disability not as a topic confined to specific individuals but as a shared human experience that everyone can contribute to understanding. It calls for the dismantling of the stigma that often isolates students with disabilities and instead envisions a classroom community where all students, regardless of ability, feel valued and included. Ultimately seeking to inspire action among students and educators to create a more inclusive environment, ensuring that disability awareness, accessibility and inclusion becomes a collective responsibility, not just one that falls on the shoulders of those with lived experience. 		From Hype to High-Impact: Leading Safe, Smart AI Adoption
Lighten workloads, turbo-charge feedback—without sending data offshore. In this 30-minute round-table, school leaders and educators unpack the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), trade quick wins already working in Aussie classrooms, and leave with a privacy-first AI checklist to keep kids’ data safe.
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
1:20 PM - 1:35 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM Bully Blocking- a new look at an old problem
According to UNESCO, one in three children are still being bullied at school. It is time for new ways of dealing with this stressful, painful, traumatic experience that injures everyone connected. Bullying can cause a brain injury and must be taken more seriously. Evelyn will offer some new ways to manage bullying for schools, parents and targets. 		Mental Health First Aid Training for the Whole School Community: A Holistic Approach
The classroom plays an important part in a child’s learning and development, but schools are also workplaces, where fostering a safe, inclusive, and mentally healthy environment is vital. Educators and education leaders have a professional commitment and a responsibility to support students’ wellbeing. It is equally important that adults who work in schools support one another professionally and mentally. This presentation introduces a comprehensive suite of Mental Health First Aid training courses designed for the entire school community, emphasising the importance of collegial support as an early intervention, aiming to create a culture of well-being that supports adults in their pivotal role. Innovative pedagogical approaches will be presented, showcasing technological advancements for mental health training in educational settings. 		Learning Chess through storytelling
This program is aimed to help educators learn how Chess Mates run classes in schools. Our aim is to help you teach students how to play chess, ideally for prep - Year 2. Come along and challenge us to a game!
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM Australia’s Financial Literacy Epidemic: How Financial Education Can Enhance Student Wellness
In this session, James Adcock will explore the impact of financial literacy on student well-being. With insights from his work at Future Finances, James will discuss how financial education not only empowers students to make informed financial choices but also builds their confidence, reduces stress, and sets them up for a healthier financial future. 		Nudel Kart
Discover the story behind the Nüdel Kart, a globally recognised, modular play-based learning tool designed to spark creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving in children. The presentation explores the power of loose parts play, the research behind the design, and how the Nüdel Kart is transforming education around the world. 		Decoding Big Tobacco: A collaborative dive into the influence of vaping and nicotine pouches on youth
Join us for a hands-on roundtable discussion where we dig into how vaping and nicotine pouches are being cleverly marketed to young people. These products are designed to confuse, mislead, and hook a new generation—and schools are on the front line. Together, we will explore how to go beyond health facts and spark meaningful conversations that help students see through the smoke and mirrors. You will leave with fresh insights, classroom-ready strategies, and resources to strengthen your wellbeing programs. Bring your curiosity and your voice—this is a space to share, challenge, and collaborate.
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
2:35 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM The Art of Skimming Stones: Leading Sustained Improvement in Schools
In this hybrid workshop we will cover 3 key concepts in leading improvement in schools. I will encourage discussion and reflection about your own influence, with particular focus on: 1. Self-reflection on - why do I lead the way I do? 2. Others - why do others respond in particular ways that supports or challenges my leadership 3. Context - what are the contextual factors that influence our leadership and what are the contextual factors that we do not need to invest excess energy into.
Capacity Building School Libraries
AI in the Classroom
Wellbeing for Future Focused Schools
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM Learning with Information Fluency: strategies for educators
Student learning is more complex with the uptake of AI, the need to instill lifelong learning for all, together with the increasing demands on teachers. Information Fluency is one pathway that has the capacity to bring these together for the benefit of students and teachers. Information Fluency incorporates research skills, the General Capabilities, digital literacies and because it is a living framework, it also enables an approach to how educators can work with AI. This session will provide some ideas and strategies in how to use Information Fluency for teaching and learning. 		Using AI to Monitor and Support Student Mental Health: Practical Applications for Schools
This session will focus on specific AI-driven tools designed for monitoring student mental health in school settings. Dr. Raul will showcase how AI algorithms can detect early signs of stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues, enabling timely interventions by educators and counselors. Concrete examples of AI applications in daily school operations will be shared, with a focus on actionable strategies schools can adopt immediately. 		Thriving to Cultivate a Flourishing School Environment
With the ever-increasing demands placed upon people working in schools, self-care and well-being approaches have never been more important. Through this session you will discover practical strategies to prioritise self-care and promote a positive work environment. We will look at practices to help reduce burnout, improve focus, Foster collaboration, improve communication and build a supportive network. Investing in the well-being of school staff is essential for the success and happiness of our students. Working together we can create a culture that promotes growth, resilience and happiness for all community members.
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM Inspiring Interventions
Library interventions can be powerful tools to connect with students of all ages and spark interest in genres, titles, authors and library programs. This presentation will showcase research-backed engagement strategies alongside innovative events and promotion techniques to inspire you to host memorable interventions that will become the talk of your school. 		Delivering effective classroom by Harnessing the power of AI - Innovative Ideas for Projects across all subjects
We will delve into the cutting-edge advancements in artificial intelligence with a focus on object recognition technologies. By leveraging AIs ability to analyze and interpret visual and audio data, industries ranging from education to autonomous systems are being transformed. We will explore practical use cases, including how AI-powered object recognition enhances classroom learning environments and improves efficiency in various real-world scenarios that are practical and can be employed in the classroom across a range of subjects. Attendees will gain insights into the latest innovations, tools, and techniques that are making AI object recognition and speech recognition more accessible, accurate, and impactful. 		Cultivating mental health literacy through data informed approaches
In today's educational landscape, fostering a culture of respect and wellbeing is paramount for the holistic development of students and educators alike. Our session aims to explore how the integration of social and emotional literacy, a wellbeing framework and data-informed strategies can cultivate environments where respect for the environment, oneself, and the community thrives. We will delve into two key themes: Cultivating Respect Through Social and Emotional Literacy; and Data-Informed Strategies for Developing Flourishing Learners. The session is designed for educators, administrators, and policymakers eager to implement evidence-based practices that promote respect, positive mental health, and flourishing among students and staff alike. Join us as we explore transformative strategies that empower individuals to become their best selves while nurturing thriving educational communities.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM Stretch break
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM Morning Tea Morning Tea
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM AI in the Classroom
This presentation explores how artificial intelligence is revolutionising education by addressing the diverse learning needs of students through customised content and pacing. It explains the role of intelligent tutoring systems that offer immediate feedback, enhancing student engagement and comprehension. The session highlights how AI-driven data analysis helps educators identify student strengths and weaknesses, informing instructional adjustments for improved learning outcomes. Additionally, it discusses how AI can streamline administrative tasks, allowing educators to focus more on teaching and student interaction. The presentation emphasises equipping educators with the skills to effectively integrate AI tools into their teaching practices. It also explores how AI supports continuous learning beyond the classroom, adapting to changing skill demands. By considering AI's potential to foster creativity, critical thinking, and collaborative skills, the session underscores its transformative impact on education and prepares students for the future.
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM Your Voice Library Program
'Your Voice' is a Literary Program that runs out of our Senior and Junior Campus Libraries. Each year, the students decide the theme which is unpacked by the Library Team and students in Year 5-Year 12. Students can express the theme through the written word, pieces of art, drama script, musical composition or spoken word. It runs over 3 terms and Library Team members, and staff become mentors to those involved. A book is published with creative content, then a live presentation runs on an evening during Book Week for families and staff to be part of. In 2025 we will take it a little further by introducing Generative Artificial Intelligence in their creative pieces and the ethical use of these. Combining creativity and academic integrity in a fun way is a wonderful opportunity for the students involved. 		Building Resilience and Confidence Through the Power of Play
Join us for an unmissable session where fun leads the way to well-being! Play is essential for everyone: In our fast-paced world, it's easy to forget the importance of play. Play helps you be present, reduces stress, and enhances mindfulness. This talk is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with the joy of play and learn how it can improve your mental well-being. Learn about the daily PEGG framework - Play, Exercise, Gratitude, and Giving - a simple yet powerful framework to enhance your life. Whether used as an individual goal, a family challenge, or a team-building exercise, PEGG will ground your mindset and promote lasting happiness. Improve mental health, reduce stress and boost emotional well-being.
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM Lunch Break
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM Wellbeing for Teaching AND Learning
This session describes our journey and what we did to come out on top to support all our learners and our teachers. Wellbeing for your staff ensures optimal teaching which leads to optimal wellbeing and learning for our young people. We have worked hard to build our wellbeing culture. We will talk about what has supported us and what has been challenging. We are still on our journey, but we have made amazing gains to support everyone at our High School. Find out what we do that could work for your school too. Strategies, proformas, activities and ideas!
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Lunch Break
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM Using GenAI to support creativity and assessment practices in the classroom
Unlock the potential of Generative AI to inspire creativity, and transform assessment in your classroom. This workshop will support educators with practical strategies to design innovative and creative learning experiences, while ensuring responsible and transparent AI use. Explore how GenAI can spark student imagination, adapt to diverse learning needs, and amplify every learner’s voice in assessment. By exploring structured examples and guided discussions, attendees will gain the skills and confidence to integrate AI thoughtfully and effectively into your classroom assessment practice.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM Lunch Break
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM Empowering Educators and Students: Resourcing Curriculum and Critical Thinking through Informit Explore
As students encounter an ever-widening range of information sources, including AI-generated content, developing the ability to recognise credible, citable evidence has become increasingly important. In this session, Laki Sideris will explore the pivotal role of school libraries in fostering research literacy and equipping students with the tools to identify original sources, engage with evidence, and think critically. He will highlight the value of curated, context-rich resources that support inquiry and reinforce what trustworthy information looks like. Jess Darnell will then introduce Informit Explore - a research platform tailored for Australian schools, demonstrating how it connects students and teachers with curriculum-aligned, authentic Australian content. Through practical examples, she will illustrate how Explore supports lesson planning, builds research confidence, and enhances student engagement with real-world issues. This presentation will offer a compelling case for embedding library expertise and discovery tools into everyday teaching and learning.
1:20 PM - 1:35 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM AI: Effect on education and our future workforce. Message from the chalk face
Dr Ken Silburn is a science educator, communicator, certified Google Trainer, and Microsoft expert who is passionate about teaching 21st-century Skills and increasing students' educational opportunities globally. Ken will help us explore the AI landscape and its implications for teaching, learning, and students' employment prospects.
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM Empowering Lifelong Learners: A Comprehensive Approach to Research and Study Skills
At Kennedy Baptist College, the Research and Study Centre (RASC) plays a pivotal role in equipping students with essential research and study skills through a structured, evidence-based programme that begins in Year 7. Our SMARTS programme introduces students to fundamental study strategies, setting a strong foundation for academic success. This is further supported by workshops integrated into the pastoral care schedule, ensuring that skills are consistently reinforced. The programme evolves as students progress through high school offering personalised, one-on-one study assistance for students requiring additional support. Our commitment to evidence-based practice ensures that we continuously refine our approach, utilising pre-and post-surveys, along with focus groups, to assess and enhance program effectiveness.
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM Empowering Mental Wellbeing: Mindset and Organisational Strategies for Teachers and Students"
We will explore practical mindset, time management and performance strategies that support both teachers and students in pursuing their goals. Participants will discover three essential techniques to boost motivation and gain clarity of mind whilst prioritising personal well-being. These strategies can be integrated into daily routines to cultivate self-awareness, reduce stress and promote overall wellness. Additionally, the session will explore ways to foster resilience and emotional intelligence in students, creating a balanced, supportive classroom that nurtures physical, emotional and mental well-being both in and out of the school environment.
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM Afternoon Tea
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM Empowering Education: Deep Learning Framework and AI Integration for Future-Ready Classrooms
This session explores the key elements of the Deep Learning Framework and the integration of AI tools with pedagogical approaches to enhance teaching and learning. Participants will dive into innovative teaching methods designed to promote deep understanding, critical thinking, and creativity, aligned with 21st-century skills. The session will highlight the importance of leveraging digital technologies, not only as content delivery platforms but as tools for collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving in real-world contexts. Educators will be equipped with strategies to integrate AI into their teaching to personalize learning experiences and create dynamic, adaptive learning environments. By the end of the session, educators will have practical strategies to use digital resources and AI to create meaningful learning experiences that align with the future needs of students.
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM Artificial intelligence for natural minds: Educators’ perspectives on AI in schools
Education is often seen as one of the most promising areas for transformation through generative AI. While much of the attention focuses on cutting-edge AI adoption in schools and higher education, combined with some practical advice, the picture of what is happening in everyday classrooms remains less explored. This presentation draws on insights from a year-long investigation into educators’ perspectives on AI, and a range of school practices. Through interviews with leading education experts and focus groups with teachers directly involved in AI adoption, educators discussed the opportunities, challenges, and practical realities of bringing AI into the classroom. I will highlight the different ways in which schools approach AI adoption and will discuss how this research informed PLC Sydney’s AI strategy, providing a case study in how schools are navigating this complex educational and technological landscape.
2:35 PM - 3:15 PM Engagement Over Enforcement: A New Era in Behaviour Management
Join student behaviour management expert Phil Kamay, as he offers strategic advice for managing challenging school behaviours.
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM Embedding digital and global citizenship skills in a library program.
How can teacher librarians embed digital and global citizenship skills within a school library program? Where do digital and global citizenship skills fit within a school library program? Where do tools such as AI fit in a school library program?
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM
Diverse Learners
Mindflight7 Demonstration
Book Signing Nook
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM Navigating Education with Adverse Childhood Experiences: A Dual Lens of Parent and Educator
Children with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), particularly those who have been in out of home care, face unique challenges in educational settings. This session, led by an educator and carer with lived experience of parenting neurodivergent children impacted by trauma, will explore the profound impact of ACEs on learning, behavior, and emotional regulation. Attendees will gain insights into the dual perspective of a parent and educator, with practical strategies to create trauma-informed, supportive environments at school that foster growth, safety, and resilience for all students. Participants will walk away with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by students who have experiences trauma or who are neurodivergent and ways to support and nurture their inclusion in the school environment.
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM Lauren Munday, Think Set Go
Author of Mastering Your Mind for Success
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 8 – VR Wellbeing Escape: A 15-Minute Reset
Find your calm and recharge in a focused 15-minute virtual reality experience designed to enhance student wellbeing. Explore immersive activities that offer a refreshing mental reset, providing actionable techniques for self-regulation transferable to real-life situations.
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM The Importance of Inclusive Educations
Sharon leads efforts to provide children with autism and intellectual disabilities the tools they need to succeed in school. She is dedicated to empowering families and advocating for accessible learning environments. Sharon will discuss the role of technology in inclusive education, collaborating with families, inclusive curriculum design and teacher training and development.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 9 – Futuclass Chemistry: Unlocking Molecular Mysteries
Dive into the world of chemistry with a VR experience that makes complex concepts easy to understand. This session lets learners directly engage with chemical bond formation, clearly showing how molecules are built and classified.
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM Morning Tea Amanda Lecaude, Organising Students
Author of Conquering Time Management and Organisation
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM School is for more than just curriculum
How do you re-engage young people who have disengaged from school? We will share key insights from the first year of our Propel program which saw an increase in attendance outcomes. Student survey results indicated the desire for applied hands-on and practical learning and we listened! We reached out to local community members, built connections by sharing the context of our young people and encouraged a wide array of bespoke experiences with a focus on helping our learners take the next steps on their positive pathway. Leave this session with key learnings from the pilot year of our Propel program and some things you can try with your next incursion and excursion.
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 10 – Virtual Humanities: Bridging Past & Present
Connect with the past and understand our world's diverse environments in a groundbreaking virtual reality exploration. This session offers engaging journeys through historical sites and geographical wonders, providing rich context for civics, culture, and human interaction.
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM David Kolpak, Principal, Trinity College North School SA
Author of Thriving Together
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM Educators and occupational therapists: A collaborative approach to supporting diverse learners
The increasing presence of school-based occupational therapy demonstrates a growing commitment to inclusive education and student well-being. This joint presentation, featuring a teacher and an occupational therapist, highlights the benefits of interprofessional working in addressing the diverse needs of learners and fostering inclusive learning environments. The presentation will include opportunities for discussion, worked case studies and practical take away tips that educators will be able to implement within their own classroom. Attendees will gain insights into collaborative approaches, develop their analysis skills and feel empowered to create inclusive and supportive learning environments for all students.
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 11 – Language Learning in VR
Immerse yourself in authentic language learning environments where you can practice speaking, listening, and pronunciation with virtual native speakers. This experience offers a judgment-free space to build confidence and fluency in over a dozen languages at your own pace with personalized analysis and feedback.
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM Dale Sidebottom and Paul Campbell, Directors, The School of Play
Author's of 365 Days of Play
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
1:20 PM - 1:35 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 12 – Build your own lesson plan using VR
Discover how to revolutionize your teaching by integrating cutting-edge virtual reality into the curriculum to deliver the key learning outcomes. This interactive session will showcase how versatile VR applications can be used to create engaging and immersive learning experiences across various subjects, from languages to creative arts.
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM Steven Trotter, Principal, Ashby Primary School
Author of The Art of Skimming Stones: Leading Sustained Improvement in Schools
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM Developing fluency, vocabulary and comprehension skills in Grade 7 and beyond
Learn about the impact of fluency, vocabulary and comprehension on engagement, participation and success across a range of high school subjects, and take away some resources and activities that can be applied in your classroom. Background research will be explored to provide a context for ways to build fluency, vocabulary and comprehension for all learners. This session would be helpful for teachers who are finding that students are struggling to understand and remember content in their subject, it would also be beneficial for learning support staff who are providing small group and individual support to high school students.
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 13 – Student-Led VR Production: Road Safety & Beyond
Explore an inspiring project where students designed, filmed, and produced compelling 360-degree VR experiences focused on driver distraction and road safety. Learn how hands-on VR content creation fosters critical thinking, collaboration, and impactful messaging for important societal challenges.
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM Practical Strategies for Supporting the Behaviour and Socio-Emotional Wellbeing of Students with ASD
This session will provide teachers with practical strategies to support the behaviour and Socio-Emotional wellbeing of students with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder). We will discuss the barriers that these students face in both mainstream and support class settings and outline specific methods to manage challenging behaviour, support wellbeing and provide an individualised approach to learning. The session will be supported by case studies of students with ASD and strategies that have significantly improved their school experience.
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM Evelyn Field OAM, Psychologist and Author
Author of: • Harry the Bully Blocker • The Bully Blocker • Bully Blocking
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
2:35 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 14 - VR Anatomy Lab: Dive into Immersive Dissections
Unleash the power of virtual reality in the classroom with Mindflight7's VR Anatomy Lab. Dive into hands-on frog dissections, mastering complex biological systems and laboratory safety without the need for real specimens.
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM
Knowledge Centre Program
Classroom of the Future
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM Classrooms with less disruption
Student disruption continues to have a major impact on classrooms. What drives teacher decision-making in today’s classrooms — and which decisions boost productivity and wellbeing? In this session we will present the research exploring reflective practice and a simple framework, reshapes teacher decision-making to result in less classroom disruptions. Based on qualitative and quantitative data from interviews, classroom observations, and surveys, the study highlights how this professional learning program will lead to productive, inclusive learning environments. Central to this work is the Four Dimensions Framework supporting teachers in managing classroom behaviour, while reducing cognitive load, through intentional, high-impact decisions. The framework is backed by an extensive database of over 35 000 teacher experiences and classroom data, offering powerful insights into the realities of modern teaching. With teacher attrition rising globally, links to stress and continued behaviour management challenges, this session offers a timely, evidence-based approach to reducing classroom disruption and supporting teacher wellbeing. School leaders change schools. Join us to see the impact of reflective decision-making and this targeted professional learning that transforms teaching practice and learning culture in any school. 		Robotics across the curriculum
In this hands-on workshop we will show how quickly robotics can be used across music, design, maths, and science to save time and improve engagement in the classroom. You can choose to work along with the examples in the presentation, write your own programs for a Micromelon Rover, or watch and see how the robots are used.
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM What is positive digital citizenship and how can we build it in our classrooms?
After developing an understanding of what digital citizenship looks like for schools, the eSmart team will share insights from their co-design processes of speaking to children and young people about their experiences online. Hear about how understanding how students are engaging in online spaces, their worries and their comforts and how they prefer to learn about online safety has informed eSmart resources for the whole school, including educators and families. 		Playful Learning: Unlocking Engagement and Well-Being in Future Classrooms
Join Paul Campbell, Director of The School of Play, for a transformative experience on the future of education! In this energising talk, Paul invites educators and school leaders to imagine what classrooms could and should look like, where play, fun, and human connection shape the foundation of learning. The future of student engagement and well-being starts here! Why Play is the Future of Learning: In tomorrow's classrooms, play will be more than just a break from academics – it will be an integral part of how students learn, grow, and connect. Play fosters resilience, boosts creativity, and enhances social bonds. This talk will highlight how fun and connection can unlock a new era in education, promoting well-being and engagement that lasts.
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM Turning Waste into Wonder: Sustainability and the Food Waste Hierarchy
This session empowers K-12 educators to integrate sustainability into their teaching by focusing on the food waste hierarchy. Drawing on resources from Sustainability Victoria and ResourceSmart Schools, the session equips educators with practical strategies and research-based approaches to help students reduce food waste. Attendees will leave with actionable steps to apply the food waste hierarchy in their schools, fostering a culture of sustainability and environmental responsibility. 		Supporting Teacher Wellbeing in the classroom
At Furnware we know that teacher wellbeing is essential. When talking about teacher wellbeing we talk about physical, emotional, mental and professional wellness. When teachers feel supported, they're better equipped to engage with students and foster positive learning experiences.
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM Australian Teaching Assistant Professional Standards – A performance and professional growth framework
This session will introduce you to the Australian Teaching Assistant Professional Standards (ATAPS), an evidence-based framework that supports the performance and professional growth of teaching assistants in all Australian schools. ATAPS aspires to recognise and value the work of teaching assistants as integral members of teaching teams, and their significant contribution to education and the school community. The ATAPS framework defines the professional knowledge, practice, and engagement teaching assistants require to effectively support learning and teaching. The framework embeds inclusive practices, and is underpinned by research on the effective deployment, preparedness, and practice of teaching assistants to maximise student outcomes. 		Now I can Write! How AI, Neuroscience, and the Science of Writing can Transform Student Performance
What happens when you connect Educational AI, Neuroscience, and the Science of Writing? Using the world’s largest case study on writing intervention using Educational AI, former university professor and AI patent holder Dr Ian Hunter explores the profound impact on student performance, joy, confidence, and self-belief that is possible. For any school or school leader concerned about school underperformance in writing, or low student engagement or self-belief around writing, this session is a must see. For those wanting to understand the evidence-backed impact of Educational AI in the classroom and what an effective digital journey in education might look like, this session provides compelling insights and practical applications.
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM Connected Classrooms, Safer Campuses: Leveraging AI and IoT to Solve Education’s Toughest Challenges
Discover through Campusondeck how AI, machine learning, smart detection cameras, and sensors are transforming education by addressing key challenges, such as student's health, security, and inefficient learning environments. Learn how smart cameras enhance security, automate attendance, and help prevent cheating, and how sensors monitor classroom conditions, track occupancy, and support student well-being. Together, these technologies create smarter, safer, and more adaptive learning environments that improve both teaching effectiveness and student outcomes. 		Teaching the Teachers
By promoting empathy, critical thinking, and diverse perspectives, this presentation will encourage fellow educators to explore disability not as a topic confined to specific individuals but as a shared human experience that everyone can contribute to understanding. It calls for the dismantling of the stigma that often isolates students with disabilities and instead envisions a classroom community where all students, regardless of ability, feel valued and included. Ultimately seeking to inspire action among students and educators to create a more inclusive environment, ensuring that disability awareness, accessibility and inclusion becomes a collective responsibility, not just one that falls on the shoulders of those with lived experience.
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
1:20 PM - 1:35 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM Bully Blocking- a new look at an old problem
According to UNESCO, one in three children are still being bullied at school. It is time for new ways of dealing with this stressful, painful, traumatic experience that injures everyone connected. Bullying can cause a brain injury and must be taken more seriously. Evelyn will offer some new ways to manage bullying for schools, parents and targets. 		Mental Health First Aid Training for the Whole School Community: A Holistic Approach
The classroom plays an important part in a child’s learning and development, but schools are also workplaces, where fostering a safe, inclusive, and mentally healthy environment is vital. Educators and education leaders have a professional commitment and a responsibility to support students’ wellbeing. It is equally important that adults who work in schools support one another professionally and mentally. This presentation introduces a comprehensive suite of Mental Health First Aid training courses designed for the entire school community, emphasising the importance of collegial support as an early intervention, aiming to create a culture of well-being that supports adults in their pivotal role. Innovative pedagogical approaches will be presented, showcasing technological advancements for mental health training in educational settings.
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM Australia’s Financial Literacy Epidemic: How Financial Education Can Enhance Student Wellness
In this session, James Adcock will explore the impact of financial literacy on student well-being. With insights from his work at Future Finances, James will discuss how financial education not only empowers students to make informed financial choices but also builds their confidence, reduces stress, and sets them up for a healthier financial future. 		Nudel Kart
Discover the story behind the Nüdel Kart, a globally recognised, modular play-based learning tool designed to spark creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving in children. The presentation explores the power of loose parts play, the research behind the design, and how the Nüdel Kart is transforming education around the world.
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
2:35 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM The Art of Skimming Stones: Leading Sustained Improvement in Schools
In this hybrid workshop we will cover 3 key concepts in leading improvement in schools. I will encourage discussion and reflection about your own influence, with particular focus on: 1. Self-reflection on - why do I lead the way I do? 2. Others - why do others respond in particular ways that supports or challenges my leadership 3. Context - what are the contextual factors that influence our leadership and what are the contextual factors that we do not need to invest excess energy into.

Round Table Discussion
Capacity Building School Libraries
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM Learning with Information Fluency: strategies for educators
Student learning is more complex with the uptake of AI, the need to instill lifelong learning for all, together with the increasing demands on teachers. Information Fluency is one pathway that has the capacity to bring these together for the benefit of students and teachers. Information Fluency incorporates research skills, the General Capabilities, digital literacies and because it is a living framework, it also enables an approach to how educators can work with AI. This session will provide some ideas and strategies in how to use Information Fluency for teaching and learning.
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM Responsible AI in Education
Cool.org, in collaboration with Melbourne University's Centre for AI and Digital Ethics, has developed a series of professional learning courses designed to support teachers in navigating AI in education. This round table discussion is an opportunity to hear directly from educators about their ethical concerns around the use of AI in schools. Whether you're new to AI or have already undertaken some professional development, we're keen to hear your thoughts and questions. The insights shared will help shape and tailor the courses to ensure they meet the real needs and priorities of educators.
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM Inspiring Interventions
Library interventions can be powerful tools to connect with students of all ages and spark interest in genres, titles, authors and library programs. This presentation will showcase research-backed engagement strategies alongside innovative events and promotion techniques to inspire you to host memorable interventions that will become the talk of your school.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM Digital Skills - how libraries and classrooms are making a difference
Hear case studies of running Code Clubs in libraries, schools, neighbourhood centres, and after-school care programs, to see the positive impact they are having with young people developing digital and computational thinking skills. Let's talk about the wealth of free resources available to anyone to run a Code Club, where an inclusive and safe environment creates a space to learn coding. Learn about the coding projects that provide differentiation, share dream time stories, and encourage endless creativity and innovation. Take away some free resources and share the ones that you like to use.
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM Morning Tea
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM Local Voices, Lasting Learning: Telling, Creating and Teaching Through Stories
Where the human superpower of storytelling meets the possibilities of cutting-edge technology. Telling Your Stories is a collaborative, place-based initiative that brings together schools, Indigenous communities, teachers, students, and families to embed cultural and linguistic heritage into literacy learning. Through the co-creation of authentic local narratives, this project weaves storytelling into teaching practice in powerful and practical ways. Please join us for an inspiring conversation and idea sharing.
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM Your Voice Library Program
'Your Voice' is a Literary Program that runs out of our Senior and Junior Campus Libraries. Each year, the students decide the theme which is unpacked by the Library Team and students in Year 5-Year 12. Students can express the theme through the written word, pieces of art, drama script, musical composition or spoken word. It runs over 3 terms and Library Team members, and staff become mentors to those involved. A book is published with creative content, then a live presentation runs on an evening during Book Week for families and staff to be part of. In 2025 we will take it a little further by introducing Generative Artificial Intelligence in their creative pieces and the ethical use of these. Combining creativity and academic integrity in a fun way is a wonderful opportunity for the students involved.
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Lunch Break
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM From Hype to High-Impact: Leading Safe, Smart AI Adoption
Lighten workloads, turbo-charge feedback—without sending data offshore. In this 30-minute round-table, school leaders and educators unpack the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), trade quick wins already working in Aussie classrooms, and leave with a privacy-first AI checklist to keep kids’ data safe.
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM Empowering Educators and Students: Resourcing Curriculum and Critical Thinking through Informit Explore
As students encounter an ever-widening range of information sources, including AI-generated content, developing the ability to recognise credible, citable evidence has become increasingly important. In this session, Laki Sideris will explore the pivotal role of school libraries in fostering research literacy and equipping students with the tools to identify original sources, engage with evidence, and think critically. He will highlight the value of curated, context-rich resources that support inquiry and reinforce what trustworthy information looks like. Jess Darnell will then introduce Informit Explore - a research platform tailored for Australian schools, demonstrating how it connects students and teachers with curriculum-aligned, authentic Australian content. Through practical examples, she will illustrate how Explore supports lesson planning, builds research confidence, and enhances student engagement with real-world issues. This presentation will offer a compelling case for embedding library expertise and discovery tools into everyday teaching and learning.
1:20 PM - 1:35 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM Empowering Lifelong Learners: A Comprehensive Approach to Research and Study Skills
At Kennedy Baptist College, the Research and Study Centre (RASC) plays a pivotal role in equipping students with essential research and study skills through a structured, evidence-based programme that begins in Year 7. Our SMARTS programme introduces students to fundamental study strategies, setting a strong foundation for academic success. This is further supported by workshops integrated into the pastoral care schedule, ensuring that skills are consistently reinforced. The programme evolves as students progress through high school offering personalised, one-on-one study assistance for students requiring additional support. Our commitment to evidence-based practice ensures that we continuously refine our approach, utilising pre-and post-surveys, along with focus groups, to assess and enhance program effectiveness.
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM Learning Chess through storytelling
This program is aimed to help educators learn how Chess Mates run classes in schools. Our aim is to help you teach students how to play chess, ideally for prep - Year 2. Come along and challenge us to a game!
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM Empowering Education: Deep Learning Framework and AI Integration for Future-Ready Classrooms
This session explores the key elements of the Deep Learning Framework and the integration of AI tools with pedagogical approaches to enhance teaching and learning. Participants will dive into innovative teaching methods designed to promote deep understanding, critical thinking, and creativity, aligned with 21st-century skills. The session will highlight the importance of leveraging digital technologies, not only as content delivery platforms but as tools for collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving in real-world contexts. Educators will be equipped with strategies to integrate AI into their teaching to personalize learning experiences and create dynamic, adaptive learning environments. By the end of the session, educators will have practical strategies to use digital resources and AI to create meaningful learning experiences that align with the future needs of students.
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM Decoding Big Tobacco: A collaborative dive into the influence of vaping and nicotine pouches on youth
Join us for a hands-on roundtable discussion where we dig into how vaping and nicotine pouches are being cleverly marketed to young people. These products are designed to confuse, mislead, and hook a new generation—and schools are on the front line. Together, we will explore how to go beyond health facts and spark meaningful conversations that help students see through the smoke and mirrors. You will leave with fresh insights, classroom-ready strategies, and resources to strengthen your wellbeing programs. Bring your curiosity and your voice—this is a space to share, challenge, and collaborate.
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
2:35 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM Embedding digital and global citizenship skills in a library program.
How can teacher librarians embed digital and global citizenship skills within a school library program? Where do digital and global citizenship skills fit within a school library program? Where do tools such as AI fit in a school library program?
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

AI in the Classroom
Wellbeing for Future Focused Schools
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM Using AI to Monitor and Support Student Mental Health: Practical Applications for Schools
This session will focus on specific AI-driven tools designed for monitoring student mental health in school settings. Dr. Raul will showcase how AI algorithms can detect early signs of stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues, enabling timely interventions by educators and counselors. Concrete examples of AI applications in daily school operations will be shared, with a focus on actionable strategies schools can adopt immediately. 		Thriving to Cultivate a Flourishing School Environment
With the ever-increasing demands placed upon people working in schools, self-care and well-being approaches have never been more important. Through this session you will discover practical strategies to prioritise self-care and promote a positive work environment. We will look at practices to help reduce burnout, improve focus, Foster collaboration, improve communication and build a supportive network. Investing in the well-being of school staff is essential for the success and happiness of our students. Working together we can create a culture that promotes growth, resilience and happiness for all community members.
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM Delivering effective classroom by Harnessing the power of AI - Innovative Ideas for Projects across all subjects
We will delve into the cutting-edge advancements in artificial intelligence with a focus on object recognition technologies. By leveraging AIs ability to analyze and interpret visual and audio data, industries ranging from education to autonomous systems are being transformed. We will explore practical use cases, including how AI-powered object recognition enhances classroom learning environments and improves efficiency in various real-world scenarios that are practical and can be employed in the classroom across a range of subjects. Attendees will gain insights into the latest innovations, tools, and techniques that are making AI object recognition and speech recognition more accessible, accurate, and impactful. 		Cultivating mental health literacy through data informed approaches
In today's educational landscape, fostering a culture of respect and wellbeing is paramount for the holistic development of students and educators alike. Our session aims to explore how the integration of social and emotional literacy, a wellbeing framework and data-informed strategies can cultivate environments where respect for the environment, oneself, and the community thrives. We will delve into two key themes: Cultivating Respect Through Social and Emotional Literacy; and Data-Informed Strategies for Developing Flourishing Learners. The session is designed for educators, administrators, and policymakers eager to implement evidence-based practices that promote respect, positive mental health, and flourishing among students and staff alike. Join us as we explore transformative strategies that empower individuals to become their best selves while nurturing thriving educational communities.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM Stretch break
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM Morning Tea
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM AI in the Classroom
This presentation explores how artificial intelligence is revolutionising education by addressing the diverse learning needs of students through customised content and pacing. It explains the role of intelligent tutoring systems that offer immediate feedback, enhancing student engagement and comprehension. The session highlights how AI-driven data analysis helps educators identify student strengths and weaknesses, informing instructional adjustments for improved learning outcomes. Additionally, it discusses how AI can streamline administrative tasks, allowing educators to focus more on teaching and student interaction. The presentation emphasises equipping educators with the skills to effectively integrate AI tools into their teaching practices. It also explores how AI supports continuous learning beyond the classroom, adapting to changing skill demands. By considering AI's potential to foster creativity, critical thinking, and collaborative skills, the session underscores its transformative impact on education and prepares students for the future.
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM Building Resilience and Confidence Through the Power of Play
Join us for an unmissable session where fun leads the way to well-being! Play is essential for everyone: In our fast-paced world, it's easy to forget the importance of play. Play helps you be present, reduces stress, and enhances mindfulness. This talk is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with the joy of play and learn how it can improve your mental well-being. Learn about the daily PEGG framework - Play, Exercise, Gratitude, and Giving - a simple yet powerful framework to enhance your life. Whether used as an individual goal, a family challenge, or a team-building exercise, PEGG will ground your mindset and promote lasting happiness. Improve mental health, reduce stress and boost emotional well-being.
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM Lunch Break
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM Wellbeing for Teaching AND Learning
This session describes our journey and what we did to come out on top to support all our learners and our teachers. Wellbeing for your staff ensures optimal teaching which leads to optimal wellbeing and learning for our young people. We have worked hard to build our wellbeing culture. We will talk about what has supported us and what has been challenging. We are still on our journey, but we have made amazing gains to support everyone at our High School. Find out what we do that could work for your school too. Strategies, proformas, activities and ideas!
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM Using GenAI to support creativity and assessment practices in the classroom
Unlock the potential of Generative AI to inspire creativity, and transform assessment in your classroom. This workshop will support educators with practical strategies to design innovative and creative learning experiences, while ensuring responsible and transparent AI use. Explore how GenAI can spark student imagination, adapt to diverse learning needs, and amplify every learner’s voice in assessment. By exploring structured examples and guided discussions, attendees will gain the skills and confidence to integrate AI thoughtfully and effectively into your classroom assessment practice.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM Lunch Break
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
1:20 PM - 1:35 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM AI: Effect on education and our future workforce. Message from the chalk face
Dr Ken Silburn is a science educator, communicator, certified Google Trainer, and Microsoft expert who is passionate about teaching 21st-century Skills and increasing students' educational opportunities globally. Ken will help us explore the AI landscape and its implications for teaching, learning, and students' employment prospects.
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM Empowering Mental Wellbeing: Mindset and Organisational Strategies for Teachers and Students"
We will explore practical mindset, time management and performance strategies that support both teachers and students in pursuing their goals. Participants will discover three essential techniques to boost motivation and gain clarity of mind whilst prioritising personal well-being. These strategies can be integrated into daily routines to cultivate self-awareness, reduce stress and promote overall wellness. Additionally, the session will explore ways to foster resilience and emotional intelligence in students, creating a balanced, supportive classroom that nurtures physical, emotional and mental well-being both in and out of the school environment.
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM Afternoon Tea
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM Artificial intelligence for natural minds: Educators’ perspectives on AI in schools
Education is often seen as one of the most promising areas for transformation through generative AI. While much of the attention focuses on cutting-edge AI adoption in schools and higher education, combined with some practical advice, the picture of what is happening in everyday classrooms remains less explored. This presentation draws on insights from a year-long investigation into educators’ perspectives on AI, and a range of school practices. Through interviews with leading education experts and focus groups with teachers directly involved in AI adoption, educators discussed the opportunities, challenges, and practical realities of bringing AI into the classroom. I will highlight the different ways in which schools approach AI adoption and will discuss how this research informed PLC Sydney’s AI strategy, providing a case study in how schools are navigating this complex educational and technological landscape.
2:35 PM - 3:15 PM Engagement Over Enforcement: A New Era in Behaviour Management
Join student behaviour management expert Phil Kamay, as he offers strategic advice for managing challenging school behaviours.
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

Diverse Learners
Mindflight7 Demonstration
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM Navigating Education with Adverse Childhood Experiences: A Dual Lens of Parent and Educator
Children with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), particularly those who have been in out of home care, face unique challenges in educational settings. This session, led by an educator and carer with lived experience of parenting neurodivergent children impacted by trauma, will explore the profound impact of ACEs on learning, behavior, and emotional regulation. Attendees will gain insights into the dual perspective of a parent and educator, with practical strategies to create trauma-informed, supportive environments at school that foster growth, safety, and resilience for all students. Participants will walk away with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by students who have experiences trauma or who are neurodivergent and ways to support and nurture their inclusion in the school environment.
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 8 – VR Wellbeing Escape: A 15-Minute Reset
Find your calm and recharge in a focused 15-minute virtual reality experience designed to enhance student wellbeing. Explore immersive activities that offer a refreshing mental reset, providing actionable techniques for self-regulation transferable to real-life situations.
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM The Importance of Inclusive Educations
Sharon leads efforts to provide children with autism and intellectual disabilities the tools they need to succeed in school. She is dedicated to empowering families and advocating for accessible learning environments. Sharon will discuss the role of technology in inclusive education, collaborating with families, inclusive curriculum design and teacher training and development.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 9 – Futuclass Chemistry: Unlocking Molecular Mysteries
Dive into the world of chemistry with a VR experience that makes complex concepts easy to understand. This session lets learners directly engage with chemical bond formation, clearly showing how molecules are built and classified.
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM Morning Tea
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM School is for more than just curriculum
How do you re-engage young people who have disengaged from school? We will share key insights from the first year of our Propel program which saw an increase in attendance outcomes. Student survey results indicated the desire for applied hands-on and practical learning and we listened! We reached out to local community members, built connections by sharing the context of our young people and encouraged a wide array of bespoke experiences with a focus on helping our learners take the next steps on their positive pathway. Leave this session with key learnings from the pilot year of our Propel program and some things you can try with your next incursion and excursion.
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 10 – Virtual Humanities: Bridging Past & Present
Connect with the past and understand our world's diverse environments in a groundbreaking virtual reality exploration. This session offers engaging journeys through historical sites and geographical wonders, providing rich context for civics, culture, and human interaction.
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM Educators and occupational therapists: A collaborative approach to supporting diverse learners
The increasing presence of school-based occupational therapy demonstrates a growing commitment to inclusive education and student well-being. This joint presentation, featuring a teacher and an occupational therapist, highlights the benefits of interprofessional working in addressing the diverse needs of learners and fostering inclusive learning environments. The presentation will include opportunities for discussion, worked case studies and practical take away tips that educators will be able to implement within their own classroom. Attendees will gain insights into collaborative approaches, develop their analysis skills and feel empowered to create inclusive and supportive learning environments for all students.
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 11 – Language Learning in VR
Immerse yourself in authentic language learning environments where you can practice speaking, listening, and pronunciation with virtual native speakers. This experience offers a judgment-free space to build confidence and fluency in over a dozen languages at your own pace with personalized analysis and feedback.
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
1:20 PM - 1:35 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 12 – Build your own lesson plan using VR
Discover how to revolutionize your teaching by integrating cutting-edge virtual reality into the curriculum to deliver the key learning outcomes. This interactive session will showcase how versatile VR applications can be used to create engaging and immersive learning experiences across various subjects, from languages to creative arts.
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM Developing fluency, vocabulary and comprehension skills in Grade 7 and beyond
Learn about the impact of fluency, vocabulary and comprehension on engagement, participation and success across a range of high school subjects, and take away some resources and activities that can be applied in your classroom. Background research will be explored to provide a context for ways to build fluency, vocabulary and comprehension for all learners. This session would be helpful for teachers who are finding that students are struggling to understand and remember content in their subject, it would also be beneficial for learning support staff who are providing small group and individual support to high school students.
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 13 – Student-Led VR Production: Road Safety & Beyond
Explore an inspiring project where students designed, filmed, and produced compelling 360-degree VR experiences focused on driver distraction and road safety. Learn how hands-on VR content creation fosters critical thinking, collaboration, and impactful messaging for important societal challenges.
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM Practical Strategies for Supporting the Behaviour and Socio-Emotional Wellbeing of Students with ASD
This session will provide teachers with practical strategies to support the behaviour and Socio-Emotional wellbeing of students with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder). We will discuss the barriers that these students face in both mainstream and support class settings and outline specific methods to manage challenging behaviour, support wellbeing and provide an individualised approach to learning. The session will be supported by case studies of students with ASD and strategies that have significantly improved their school experience.
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
2:35 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 14 - VR Anatomy Lab: Dive into Immersive Dissections
Unleash the power of virtual reality in the classroom with Mindflight7's VR Anatomy Lab. Dive into hands-on frog dissections, mastering complex biological systems and laboratory safety without the need for real specimens.
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

Book Signing Nook
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM Lauren Munday, Think Set Go
Author of Mastering Your Mind for Success
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM Amanda Lecaude, Organising Students
Author of Conquering Time Management and Organisation
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM David Kolpak, Principal, Trinity College North School SA
Author of Thriving Together
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM Dale Sidebottom and Paul Campbell, Directors, The School of Play
Author's of 365 Days of Play
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
1:20 PM - 1:35 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM Steven Trotter, Principal, Ashby Primary School
Author of The Art of Skimming Stones: Leading Sustained Improvement in Schools
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM Evelyn Field OAM, Psychologist and Author
Author of: • Harry the Bully Blocker • The Bully Blocker • Bully Blocking
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
2:35 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

Knowledge Centre Program
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM Classrooms with less disruption
Student disruption continues to have a major impact on classrooms. What drives teacher decision-making in today’s classrooms — and which decisions boost productivity and wellbeing? In this session we will present the research exploring reflective practice and a simple framework, reshapes teacher decision-making to result in less classroom disruptions. Based on qualitative and quantitative data from interviews, classroom observations, and surveys, the study highlights how this professional learning program will lead to productive, inclusive learning environments. Central to this work is the Four Dimensions Framework supporting teachers in managing classroom behaviour, while reducing cognitive load, through intentional, high-impact decisions. The framework is backed by an extensive database of over 35 000 teacher experiences and classroom data, offering powerful insights into the realities of modern teaching. With teacher attrition rising globally, links to stress and continued behaviour management challenges, this session offers a timely, evidence-based approach to reducing classroom disruption and supporting teacher wellbeing. School leaders change schools. Join us to see the impact of reflective decision-making and this targeted professional learning that transforms teaching practice and learning culture in any school.
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM What is positive digital citizenship and how can we build it in our classrooms?
After developing an understanding of what digital citizenship looks like for schools, the eSmart team will share insights from their co-design processes of speaking to children and young people about their experiences online. Hear about how understanding how students are engaging in online spaces, their worries and their comforts and how they prefer to learn about online safety has informed eSmart resources for the whole school, including educators and families.
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM Turning Waste into Wonder: Sustainability and the Food Waste Hierarchy
This session empowers K-12 educators to integrate sustainability into their teaching by focusing on the food waste hierarchy. Drawing on resources from Sustainability Victoria and ResourceSmart Schools, the session equips educators with practical strategies and research-based approaches to help students reduce food waste. Attendees will leave with actionable steps to apply the food waste hierarchy in their schools, fostering a culture of sustainability and environmental responsibility.
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM Australian Teaching Assistant Professional Standards – A performance and professional growth framework
This session will introduce you to the Australian Teaching Assistant Professional Standards (ATAPS), an evidence-based framework that supports the performance and professional growth of teaching assistants in all Australian schools. ATAPS aspires to recognise and value the work of teaching assistants as integral members of teaching teams, and their significant contribution to education and the school community. The ATAPS framework defines the professional knowledge, practice, and engagement teaching assistants require to effectively support learning and teaching. The framework embeds inclusive practices, and is underpinned by research on the effective deployment, preparedness, and practice of teaching assistants to maximise student outcomes.
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM Connected Classrooms, Safer Campuses: Leveraging AI and IoT to Solve Education’s Toughest Challenges
Discover through Campusondeck how AI, machine learning, smart detection cameras, and sensors are transforming education by addressing key challenges, such as student's health, security, and inefficient learning environments. Learn how smart cameras enhance security, automate attendance, and help prevent cheating, and how sensors monitor classroom conditions, track occupancy, and support student well-being. Together, these technologies create smarter, safer, and more adaptive learning environments that improve both teaching effectiveness and student outcomes.
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
1:20 PM - 1:35 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM Bully Blocking- a new look at an old problem
According to UNESCO, one in three children are still being bullied at school. It is time for new ways of dealing with this stressful, painful, traumatic experience that injures everyone connected. Bullying can cause a brain injury and must be taken more seriously. Evelyn will offer some new ways to manage bullying for schools, parents and targets.
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM Australia’s Financial Literacy Epidemic: How Financial Education Can Enhance Student Wellness
In this session, James Adcock will explore the impact of financial literacy on student well-being. With insights from his work at Future Finances, James will discuss how financial education not only empowers students to make informed financial choices but also builds their confidence, reduces stress, and sets them up for a healthier financial future.
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
2:35 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

Classroom of the Future
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM Robotics across the curriculum
In this hands-on workshop we will show how quickly robotics can be used across music, design, maths, and science to save time and improve engagement in the classroom. You can choose to work along with the examples in the presentation, write your own programs for a Micromelon Rover, or watch and see how the robots are used.
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM Playful Learning: Unlocking Engagement and Well-Being in Future Classrooms
Join Paul Campbell, Director of The School of Play, for a transformative experience on the future of education! In this energising talk, Paul invites educators and school leaders to imagine what classrooms could and should look like, where play, fun, and human connection shape the foundation of learning. The future of student engagement and well-being starts here! Why Play is the Future of Learning: In tomorrow's classrooms, play will be more than just a break from academics – it will be an integral part of how students learn, grow, and connect. Play fosters resilience, boosts creativity, and enhances social bonds. This talk will highlight how fun and connection can unlock a new era in education, promoting well-being and engagement that lasts.
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM Supporting Teacher Wellbeing in the classroom
At Furnware we know that teacher wellbeing is essential. When talking about teacher wellbeing we talk about physical, emotional, mental and professional wellness. When teachers feel supported, they're better equipped to engage with students and foster positive learning experiences.
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM Now I can Write! How AI, Neuroscience, and the Science of Writing can Transform Student Performance
What happens when you connect Educational AI, Neuroscience, and the Science of Writing? Using the world’s largest case study on writing intervention using Educational AI, former university professor and AI patent holder Dr Ian Hunter explores the profound impact on student performance, joy, confidence, and self-belief that is possible. For any school or school leader concerned about school underperformance in writing, or low student engagement or self-belief around writing, this session is a must see. For those wanting to understand the evidence-backed impact of Educational AI in the classroom and what an effective digital journey in education might look like, this session provides compelling insights and practical applications.
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM Teaching the Teachers
By promoting empathy, critical thinking, and diverse perspectives, this presentation will encourage fellow educators to explore disability not as a topic confined to specific individuals but as a shared human experience that everyone can contribute to understanding. It calls for the dismantling of the stigma that often isolates students with disabilities and instead envisions a classroom community where all students, regardless of ability, feel valued and included. Ultimately seeking to inspire action among students and educators to create a more inclusive environment, ensuring that disability awareness, accessibility and inclusion becomes a collective responsibility, not just one that falls on the shoulders of those with lived experience.
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
1:20 PM - 1:35 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM Mental Health First Aid Training for the Whole School Community: A Holistic Approach
The classroom plays an important part in a child’s learning and development, but schools are also workplaces, where fostering a safe, inclusive, and mentally healthy environment is vital. Educators and education leaders have a professional commitment and a responsibility to support students’ wellbeing. It is equally important that adults who work in schools support one another professionally and mentally. This presentation introduces a comprehensive suite of Mental Health First Aid training courses designed for the entire school community, emphasising the importance of collegial support as an early intervention, aiming to create a culture of well-being that supports adults in their pivotal role. Innovative pedagogical approaches will be presented, showcasing technological advancements for mental health training in educational settings.
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM Nudel Kart
Discover the story behind the Nüdel Kart, a globally recognised, modular play-based learning tool designed to spark creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving in children. The presentation explores the power of loose parts play, the research behind the design, and how the Nüdel Kart is transforming education around the world.
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
2:35 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM The Art of Skimming Stones: Leading Sustained Improvement in Schools
In this hybrid workshop we will cover 3 key concepts in leading improvement in schools. I will encourage discussion and reflection about your own influence, with particular focus on: 1. Self-reflection on - why do I lead the way I do? 2. Others - why do others respond in particular ways that supports or challenges my leadership 3. Context - what are the contextual factors that influence our leadership and what are the contextual factors that we do not need to invest excess energy into.

Round Table Discussion
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM Responsible AI in Education
Cool.org, in collaboration with Melbourne University's Centre for AI and Digital Ethics, has developed a series of professional learning courses designed to support teachers in navigating AI in education. This round table discussion is an opportunity to hear directly from educators about their ethical concerns around the use of AI in schools. Whether you're new to AI or have already undertaken some professional development, we're keen to hear your thoughts and questions. The insights shared will help shape and tailor the courses to ensure they meet the real needs and priorities of educators.
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM Digital Skills - how libraries and classrooms are making a difference
Hear case studies of running Code Clubs in libraries, schools, neighbourhood centres, and after-school care programs, to see the positive impact they are having with young people developing digital and computational thinking skills. Let's talk about the wealth of free resources available to anyone to run a Code Club, where an inclusive and safe environment creates a space to learn coding. Learn about the coding projects that provide differentiation, share dream time stories, and encourage endless creativity and innovation. Take away some free resources and share the ones that you like to use.
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM Local Voices, Lasting Learning: Telling, Creating and Teaching Through Stories
Where the human superpower of storytelling meets the possibilities of cutting-edge technology. Telling Your Stories is a collaborative, place-based initiative that brings together schools, Indigenous communities, teachers, students, and families to embed cultural and linguistic heritage into literacy learning. Through the co-creation of authentic local narratives, this project weaves storytelling into teaching practice in powerful and practical ways. Please join us for an inspiring conversation and idea sharing.
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM From Hype to High-Impact: Leading Safe, Smart AI Adoption
Lighten workloads, turbo-charge feedback—without sending data offshore. In this 30-minute round-table, school leaders and educators unpack the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), trade quick wins already working in Aussie classrooms, and leave with a privacy-first AI checklist to keep kids’ data safe.
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
1:20 PM - 1:35 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM Learning Chess through storytelling
This program is aimed to help educators learn how Chess Mates run classes in schools. Our aim is to help you teach students how to play chess, ideally for prep - Year 2. Come along and challenge us to a game!
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM Decoding Big Tobacco: A collaborative dive into the influence of vaping and nicotine pouches on youth
Join us for a hands-on roundtable discussion where we dig into how vaping and nicotine pouches are being cleverly marketed to young people. These products are designed to confuse, mislead, and hook a new generation—and schools are on the front line. Together, we will explore how to go beyond health facts and spark meaningful conversations that help students see through the smoke and mirrors. You will leave with fresh insights, classroom-ready strategies, and resources to strengthen your wellbeing programs. Bring your curiosity and your voice—this is a space to share, challenge, and collaborate.
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
2:35 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

Capacity Building School Libraries
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM Learning with Information Fluency: strategies for educators
Student learning is more complex with the uptake of AI, the need to instill lifelong learning for all, together with the increasing demands on teachers. Information Fluency is one pathway that has the capacity to bring these together for the benefit of students and teachers. Information Fluency incorporates research skills, the General Capabilities, digital literacies and because it is a living framework, it also enables an approach to how educators can work with AI. This session will provide some ideas and strategies in how to use Information Fluency for teaching and learning.
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM Inspiring Interventions
Library interventions can be powerful tools to connect with students of all ages and spark interest in genres, titles, authors and library programs. This presentation will showcase research-backed engagement strategies alongside innovative events and promotion techniques to inspire you to host memorable interventions that will become the talk of your school.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM Morning Tea
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM Your Voice Library Program
'Your Voice' is a Literary Program that runs out of our Senior and Junior Campus Libraries. Each year, the students decide the theme which is unpacked by the Library Team and students in Year 5-Year 12. Students can express the theme through the written word, pieces of art, drama script, musical composition or spoken word. It runs over 3 terms and Library Team members, and staff become mentors to those involved. A book is published with creative content, then a live presentation runs on an evening during Book Week for families and staff to be part of. In 2025 we will take it a little further by introducing Generative Artificial Intelligence in their creative pieces and the ethical use of these. Combining creativity and academic integrity in a fun way is a wonderful opportunity for the students involved.
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Lunch Break
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM Empowering Educators and Students: Resourcing Curriculum and Critical Thinking through Informit Explore
As students encounter an ever-widening range of information sources, including AI-generated content, developing the ability to recognise credible, citable evidence has become increasingly important. In this session, Laki Sideris will explore the pivotal role of school libraries in fostering research literacy and equipping students with the tools to identify original sources, engage with evidence, and think critically. He will highlight the value of curated, context-rich resources that support inquiry and reinforce what trustworthy information looks like. Jess Darnell will then introduce Informit Explore - a research platform tailored for Australian schools, demonstrating how it connects students and teachers with curriculum-aligned, authentic Australian content. Through practical examples, she will illustrate how Explore supports lesson planning, builds research confidence, and enhances student engagement with real-world issues. This presentation will offer a compelling case for embedding library expertise and discovery tools into everyday teaching and learning.
1:20 PM - 1:35 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM Empowering Lifelong Learners: A Comprehensive Approach to Research and Study Skills
At Kennedy Baptist College, the Research and Study Centre (RASC) plays a pivotal role in equipping students with essential research and study skills through a structured, evidence-based programme that begins in Year 7. Our SMARTS programme introduces students to fundamental study strategies, setting a strong foundation for academic success. This is further supported by workshops integrated into the pastoral care schedule, ensuring that skills are consistently reinforced. The programme evolves as students progress through high school offering personalised, one-on-one study assistance for students requiring additional support. Our commitment to evidence-based practice ensures that we continuously refine our approach, utilising pre-and post-surveys, along with focus groups, to assess and enhance program effectiveness.
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM Empowering Education: Deep Learning Framework and AI Integration for Future-Ready Classrooms
This session explores the key elements of the Deep Learning Framework and the integration of AI tools with pedagogical approaches to enhance teaching and learning. Participants will dive into innovative teaching methods designed to promote deep understanding, critical thinking, and creativity, aligned with 21st-century skills. The session will highlight the importance of leveraging digital technologies, not only as content delivery platforms but as tools for collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving in real-world contexts. Educators will be equipped with strategies to integrate AI into their teaching to personalize learning experiences and create dynamic, adaptive learning environments. By the end of the session, educators will have practical strategies to use digital resources and AI to create meaningful learning experiences that align with the future needs of students.
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
2:35 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM Embedding digital and global citizenship skills in a library program.
How can teacher librarians embed digital and global citizenship skills within a school library program? Where do digital and global citizenship skills fit within a school library program? Where do tools such as AI fit in a school library program?
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

AI in the Classroom
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM Using AI to Monitor and Support Student Mental Health: Practical Applications for Schools
This session will focus on specific AI-driven tools designed for monitoring student mental health in school settings. Dr. Raul will showcase how AI algorithms can detect early signs of stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues, enabling timely interventions by educators and counselors. Concrete examples of AI applications in daily school operations will be shared, with a focus on actionable strategies schools can adopt immediately.
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM Delivering effective classroom by Harnessing the power of AI - Innovative Ideas for Projects across all subjects
We will delve into the cutting-edge advancements in artificial intelligence with a focus on object recognition technologies. By leveraging AIs ability to analyze and interpret visual and audio data, industries ranging from education to autonomous systems are being transformed. We will explore practical use cases, including how AI-powered object recognition enhances classroom learning environments and improves efficiency in various real-world scenarios that are practical and can be employed in the classroom across a range of subjects. Attendees will gain insights into the latest innovations, tools, and techniques that are making AI object recognition and speech recognition more accessible, accurate, and impactful.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM Stretch break
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM AI in the Classroom
This presentation explores how artificial intelligence is revolutionising education by addressing the diverse learning needs of students through customised content and pacing. It explains the role of intelligent tutoring systems that offer immediate feedback, enhancing student engagement and comprehension. The session highlights how AI-driven data analysis helps educators identify student strengths and weaknesses, informing instructional adjustments for improved learning outcomes. Additionally, it discusses how AI can streamline administrative tasks, allowing educators to focus more on teaching and student interaction. The presentation emphasises equipping educators with the skills to effectively integrate AI tools into their teaching practices. It also explores how AI supports continuous learning beyond the classroom, adapting to changing skill demands. By considering AI's potential to foster creativity, critical thinking, and collaborative skills, the session underscores its transformative impact on education and prepares students for the future.
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM Lunch Break
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM Using GenAI to support creativity and assessment practices in the classroom
Unlock the potential of Generative AI to inspire creativity, and transform assessment in your classroom. This workshop will support educators with practical strategies to design innovative and creative learning experiences, while ensuring responsible and transparent AI use. Explore how GenAI can spark student imagination, adapt to diverse learning needs, and amplify every learner’s voice in assessment. By exploring structured examples and guided discussions, attendees will gain the skills and confidence to integrate AI thoughtfully and effectively into your classroom assessment practice.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
1:20 PM - 1:35 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM AI: Effect on education and our future workforce. Message from the chalk face
Dr Ken Silburn is a science educator, communicator, certified Google Trainer, and Microsoft expert who is passionate about teaching 21st-century Skills and increasing students' educational opportunities globally. Ken will help us explore the AI landscape and its implications for teaching, learning, and students' employment prospects.
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM Afternoon Tea
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM Artificial intelligence for natural minds: Educators’ perspectives on AI in schools
Education is often seen as one of the most promising areas for transformation through generative AI. While much of the attention focuses on cutting-edge AI adoption in schools and higher education, combined with some practical advice, the picture of what is happening in everyday classrooms remains less explored. This presentation draws on insights from a year-long investigation into educators’ perspectives on AI, and a range of school practices. Through interviews with leading education experts and focus groups with teachers directly involved in AI adoption, educators discussed the opportunities, challenges, and practical realities of bringing AI into the classroom. I will highlight the different ways in which schools approach AI adoption and will discuss how this research informed PLC Sydney’s AI strategy, providing a case study in how schools are navigating this complex educational and technological landscape.
2:35 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

Wellbeing for Future Focused Schools
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM Thriving to Cultivate a Flourishing School Environment
With the ever-increasing demands placed upon people working in schools, self-care and well-being approaches have never been more important. Through this session you will discover practical strategies to prioritise self-care and promote a positive work environment. We will look at practices to help reduce burnout, improve focus, Foster collaboration, improve communication and build a supportive network. Investing in the well-being of school staff is essential for the success and happiness of our students. Working together we can create a culture that promotes growth, resilience and happiness for all community members.
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM Cultivating mental health literacy through data informed approaches
In today's educational landscape, fostering a culture of respect and wellbeing is paramount for the holistic development of students and educators alike. Our session aims to explore how the integration of social and emotional literacy, a wellbeing framework and data-informed strategies can cultivate environments where respect for the environment, oneself, and the community thrives. We will delve into two key themes: Cultivating Respect Through Social and Emotional Literacy; and Data-Informed Strategies for Developing Flourishing Learners. The session is designed for educators, administrators, and policymakers eager to implement evidence-based practices that promote respect, positive mental health, and flourishing among students and staff alike. Join us as we explore transformative strategies that empower individuals to become their best selves while nurturing thriving educational communities.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM Morning Tea
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM Building Resilience and Confidence Through the Power of Play
Join us for an unmissable session where fun leads the way to well-being! Play is essential for everyone: In our fast-paced world, it's easy to forget the importance of play. Play helps you be present, reduces stress, and enhances mindfulness. This talk is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with the joy of play and learn how it can improve your mental well-being. Learn about the daily PEGG framework - Play, Exercise, Gratitude, and Giving - a simple yet powerful framework to enhance your life. Whether used as an individual goal, a family challenge, or a team-building exercise, PEGG will ground your mindset and promote lasting happiness. Improve mental health, reduce stress and boost emotional well-being.
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM Wellbeing for Teaching AND Learning
This session describes our journey and what we did to come out on top to support all our learners and our teachers. Wellbeing for your staff ensures optimal teaching which leads to optimal wellbeing and learning for our young people. We have worked hard to build our wellbeing culture. We will talk about what has supported us and what has been challenging. We are still on our journey, but we have made amazing gains to support everyone at our High School. Find out what we do that could work for your school too. Strategies, proformas, activities and ideas!
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM Lunch Break
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
1:20 PM - 1:35 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM Empowering Mental Wellbeing: Mindset and Organisational Strategies for Teachers and Students"
We will explore practical mindset, time management and performance strategies that support both teachers and students in pursuing their goals. Participants will discover three essential techniques to boost motivation and gain clarity of mind whilst prioritising personal well-being. These strategies can be integrated into daily routines to cultivate self-awareness, reduce stress and promote overall wellness. Additionally, the session will explore ways to foster resilience and emotional intelligence in students, creating a balanced, supportive classroom that nurtures physical, emotional and mental well-being both in and out of the school environment.
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
2:35 PM - 3:15 PM Engagement Over Enforcement: A New Era in Behaviour Management
Join student behaviour management expert Phil Kamay, as he offers strategic advice for managing challenging school behaviours.
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

Diverse Learners
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM Navigating Education with Adverse Childhood Experiences: A Dual Lens of Parent and Educator
Children with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), particularly those who have been in out of home care, face unique challenges in educational settings. This session, led by an educator and carer with lived experience of parenting neurodivergent children impacted by trauma, will explore the profound impact of ACEs on learning, behavior, and emotional regulation. Attendees will gain insights into the dual perspective of a parent and educator, with practical strategies to create trauma-informed, supportive environments at school that foster growth, safety, and resilience for all students. Participants will walk away with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by students who have experiences trauma or who are neurodivergent and ways to support and nurture their inclusion in the school environment.
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM The Importance of Inclusive Educations
Sharon leads efforts to provide children with autism and intellectual disabilities the tools they need to succeed in school. She is dedicated to empowering families and advocating for accessible learning environments. Sharon will discuss the role of technology in inclusive education, collaborating with families, inclusive curriculum design and teacher training and development.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM Morning Tea
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM School is for more than just curriculum
How do you re-engage young people who have disengaged from school? We will share key insights from the first year of our Propel program which saw an increase in attendance outcomes. Student survey results indicated the desire for applied hands-on and practical learning and we listened! We reached out to local community members, built connections by sharing the context of our young people and encouraged a wide array of bespoke experiences with a focus on helping our learners take the next steps on their positive pathway. Leave this session with key learnings from the pilot year of our Propel program and some things you can try with your next incursion and excursion.
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM Educators and occupational therapists: A collaborative approach to supporting diverse learners
The increasing presence of school-based occupational therapy demonstrates a growing commitment to inclusive education and student well-being. This joint presentation, featuring a teacher and an occupational therapist, highlights the benefits of interprofessional working in addressing the diverse needs of learners and fostering inclusive learning environments. The presentation will include opportunities for discussion, worked case studies and practical take away tips that educators will be able to implement within their own classroom. Attendees will gain insights into collaborative approaches, develop their analysis skills and feel empowered to create inclusive and supportive learning environments for all students.
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
1:20 PM - 1:35 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM Developing fluency, vocabulary and comprehension skills in Grade 7 and beyond
Learn about the impact of fluency, vocabulary and comprehension on engagement, participation and success across a range of high school subjects, and take away some resources and activities that can be applied in your classroom. Background research will be explored to provide a context for ways to build fluency, vocabulary and comprehension for all learners. This session would be helpful for teachers who are finding that students are struggling to understand and remember content in their subject, it would also be beneficial for learning support staff who are providing small group and individual support to high school students.
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM Practical Strategies for Supporting the Behaviour and Socio-Emotional Wellbeing of Students with ASD
This session will provide teachers with practical strategies to support the behaviour and Socio-Emotional wellbeing of students with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder). We will discuss the barriers that these students face in both mainstream and support class settings and outline specific methods to manage challenging behaviour, support wellbeing and provide an individualised approach to learning. The session will be supported by case studies of students with ASD and strategies that have significantly improved their school experience.
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
2:35 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

Mindflight7 Demonstration
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 8 – VR Wellbeing Escape: A 15-Minute Reset
Find your calm and recharge in a focused 15-minute virtual reality experience designed to enhance student wellbeing. Explore immersive activities that offer a refreshing mental reset, providing actionable techniques for self-regulation transferable to real-life situations.
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 9 – Futuclass Chemistry: Unlocking Molecular Mysteries
Dive into the world of chemistry with a VR experience that makes complex concepts easy to understand. This session lets learners directly engage with chemical bond formation, clearly showing how molecules are built and classified.
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 10 – Virtual Humanities: Bridging Past & Present
Connect with the past and understand our world's diverse environments in a groundbreaking virtual reality exploration. This session offers engaging journeys through historical sites and geographical wonders, providing rich context for civics, culture, and human interaction.
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 11 – Language Learning in VR
Immerse yourself in authentic language learning environments where you can practice speaking, listening, and pronunciation with virtual native speakers. This experience offers a judgment-free space to build confidence and fluency in over a dozen languages at your own pace with personalized analysis and feedback.
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
1:20 PM - 1:35 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 12 – Build your own lesson plan using VR
Discover how to revolutionize your teaching by integrating cutting-edge virtual reality into the curriculum to deliver the key learning outcomes. This interactive session will showcase how versatile VR applications can be used to create engaging and immersive learning experiences across various subjects, from languages to creative arts.
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 13 – Student-Led VR Production: Road Safety & Beyond
Explore an inspiring project where students designed, filmed, and produced compelling 360-degree VR experiences focused on driver distraction and road safety. Learn how hands-on VR content creation fosters critical thinking, collaboration, and impactful messaging for important societal challenges.
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
2:35 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM Mindflight7 VR Flight # 14 - VR Anatomy Lab: Dive into Immersive Dissections
Unleash the power of virtual reality in the classroom with Mindflight7's VR Anatomy Lab. Dive into hands-on frog dissections, mastering complex biological systems and laboratory safety without the need for real specimens.
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

Book Signing Nook
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM Lauren Munday, Think Set Go
Author of Mastering Your Mind for Success
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM Amanda Lecaude, Organising Students
Author of Conquering Time Management and Organisation
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
11:10 AM - 12:00 PM
11:20 AM - 11:35 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM David Kolpak, Principal, Trinity College North School SA
Author of Thriving Together
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
12:20 PM - 12:35 PM
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM Dale Sidebottom and Paul Campbell, Directors, The School of Play
Author's of 365 Days of Play
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
1:20 PM - 1:35 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM Steven Trotter, Principal, Ashby Primary School
Author of The Art of Skimming Stones: Leading Sustained Improvement in Schools
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM Evelyn Field OAM, Psychologist and Author
Author of: • Harry the Bully Blocker • The Bully Blocker • Bully Blocking
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
2:35 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

Footer image
loading