NES Melbourne Speaker Portal

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

Thursday, August 28, 2025

	Knowledge Centre Program	Classroom of The Future	AI in the Classroom
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	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	Beyond One-Size-Fits-All: AI-Augmented Learning In an era where every day new technologies reshaping education, how do we ensure that learning is tailored to meet individual needs? This session delves deep into the intersection of AI and education, focusing on how educators can leverage free and safe artificial intelligence tools to provide a more.
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	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
10:40 AM - 10:45 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			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.
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM			Lunch
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
12:30 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 - 1:30 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.
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM			Bringing democratic teaching to an AI world How can teachers make sure that they are applying best practice teaching in the era of AI - combining ancient and modern approaches to produce a pedagogical approach that leaves students truly engaged with the world beyond their schools.
12:55 PM - 1:30 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM			The use of AI to support reading engagement and comprehension We will explore how GenAI can be harnessed as a powerful tool to enhance teaching and planning. You will have the opportunity to actively utilise GenAI to enhance reading engagement and comprehension across all curriculum areas. Moreover, we will delve into how GenAI can support curriculum planning, all the while preserving the distinctive voice of individual teachers. This session offers a comprehensive planning component suitable for all K-12 educators.
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:35 PM - 2:15 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			Afternoon Tea
2:20 PM - 2:45 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	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
2:50 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM			Beyond Algorithms: Equipping Students for a Collaborative Future with AI The Fourth Industrial Revolution is ushering children into a world defined by digital technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI). While technology provides vast resources and opportunities, it cannot instill the resilience needed to navigate an uncertain future. This session will inspire educators to discover meaningful approaches to help students find purpose and direction in an increasingly complex landscape. We will explore the importance of critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, emphasising the human skills essential for thriving alongside AI. Together, we will examine strategies to empower young generations to coexist with AI, fostering a mindset that embraces innovation while cultivating essential human qualities. Can practices like mindfulness and fostering creativity serve as vital tools for children to adapt and flourish? Join us in this engaging session as we redefine education for a new era and empower the next generation.
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.

	Wellbeing for Future Focused Schools	Diverse Learners	Research to Reality for Aspiring Leaders
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM			Research to Reality for Aspiring Leaders
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
9:55 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.
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM	Morning Tea	Morning Tea
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
10:50 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.
11:30 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.
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM	Lunch Break	Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
12:55 PM - 1:30 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM	TBC - Sponsor session or Discussion time	TBC - Sponsor session or Discussion time
1:35 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 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.	Do You See Me? Why Diverse Books are Important In this presentation she will use her personal experiences, professional background in mental health, and current work as a children’s author, to highlight the importance of ensuring diverse learners see themselves in stories, feel connected to others who understand them, and become engaged in reading and writing their own stories.
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:20 PM - 2:45 PM
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 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.	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!
2:50 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

	Sustainability in Schools
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM	Sustainability in Schools
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM	The Evolution of Sustainability in Schools The ResourceSmart Schools program has been managed by Sustainability Victoria since 2008. Throughout that time schools participating in the program have saved 110,00 tonnes of GHG emissions and millions of dollars from reducing their resource use however, the ways in which schools are undertaking the program, the actions they are taking and the understanding of what sustainability in schools can be has evolved and has become more sophisticated. Sustainability in schools is creating a dynamic learning environment leading the way in preparing students, teachers and the wider community with the skills and knowledge that will place them in the best position to thrive in a changing world.
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM	Creating a Greener Future Sharing strategies to promote sustainability in schools through resource efficiency, global perspectives, partnerships, curriculum integration, and inclusive approaches. Learn how to apply these practices in your educational setting to foster a sustainable mindset among students. We will explore resources and workshop innovative curriculum ideas that create exciting classroom and applied outcomes. We will discuss Net zero initiatives, investigating external partnership options and the implementation of student advocacy. Come armed with ideas and leave with individualised future plans to make your school an exciting Greener more sustainable environment.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM	Stretch Break
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM	Becoming a Sustainable School We will showcase how we have worked local council and Resource Smart Schools, linking with local business and networking and partnering with local churches and community groups. How we implemented our six bin recycling centres educating not only the children but the whole community that a sustainable school is just one part of a sustainable community. Embedding sustainability into the whole school curriculum to ensure everyone is onboard and showing the children what could happen if they don't look after their environment. Having been awarded the Community Leadership (Primary) School of the Year in 2024 was a huge achievement, gained by hosting events such as Clean Up Australia day for example. Finally, where to now? What are our next goals?
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM	Lunch Break
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM	TBC - Sponsor session or Discussion time
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
12:55 PM - 1:30 PM	Sustainability: A cross-curriculum priority - and why you should care We will workshop with practical activities, how to meaningfully incorporate Sustainability as a cross-curriculum priority for the already time-poor teacher with actual assessable learning outcomes. We will discuss: • Why Sustainability (Isn't that just like, recycling..?) • What Sustainability teaching and learning looks like at HEPS • Demonstrations of practical/hands on activities from a range of year levels • How to structure a scope and sequence based on VIC Curriculum within an SDG and RSS framework for real world outcomes • Developing Sustainability as a specialist area (set up, resources, curriculum, planning, assessment and reporting) • Meaningful integration of Sustainability into what you're already doing in the classroom • Whole school approach to Sustainability (Aligning learning with your AIP, school context and community)
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:35 PM - 2:15 PM	Empowering Young Leaders: A Model for Student-Led Sustainability Mount Waverley Primary School is a 5-Star Sustainable School, recognised for its integrated, student-led approaches that reflect their collective commitment to environmental stewardship. They regularly welcome visits from other schools eager to learn from their success with their Sustainability Captains leading the tours. In this session, the Sustainability Captains will guide you through their model, which ensures that all students are actively engaged in caring for one or more aspects of the school environment. They will also discuss how Sustainability is woven into the curriculum, sharing their scope and sequence with you.
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:20 PM - 2:45 PM	Afternoon Tea
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:50 PM - 3:30 PM	Making sustainable practices the norm through gamification and rewards. Discover how gamification can transform sustainability into a fun, everyday habit within your school. This session will explore how rewards, points, and challenges can drive actions like recycling and energy-saving among students and staff. We'll provide practical steps for setting up a digital rewards system and give examples of how it could work in a school setting. Learn how to track impact, engage students, and build a culture of environmental responsibility that’s both educational and rewarding.
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

	Knowledge Centre Program	Classroom of The Future
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	Beyond One-Size-Fits-All: AI-Augmented Learning In an era where every day new technologies reshaping education, how do we ensure that learning is tailored to meet individual needs? This session delves deep into the intersection of AI and education, focusing on how educators can leverage free and safe artificial intelligence tools to provide a more.
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
10:40 AM - 10:45 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
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
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
12:30 PM - 12:50 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.
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
12:55 PM - 1:30 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:35 PM - 2:15 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
2:20 PM - 2:45 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
2:50 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 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.

	AI in the Classroom	Wellbeing for Future Focused Schools
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
9:15 AM - 9:45 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
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM		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.
10:50 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.
11:30 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.
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 - 1:30 PM		Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM	Bringing democratic teaching to an AI world How can teachers make sure that they are applying best practice teaching in the era of AI - combining ancient and modern approaches to produce a pedagogical approach that leaves students truly engaged with the world beyond their schools.
12:55 PM - 1:30 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM	The use of AI to support reading engagement and comprehension We will explore how GenAI can be harnessed as a powerful tool to enhance teaching and planning. You will have the opportunity to actively utilise GenAI to enhance reading engagement and comprehension across all curriculum areas. Moreover, we will delve into how GenAI can support curriculum planning, all the while preserving the distinctive voice of individual teachers. This session offers a comprehensive planning component suitable for all K-12 educators.
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM		TBC - Sponsor session or Discussion time
1:35 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 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.
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM	Afternoon Tea
2:20 PM - 2:45 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		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.
2:50 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM	Beyond Algorithms: Equipping Students for a Collaborative Future with AI The Fourth Industrial Revolution is ushering children into a world defined by digital technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI). While technology provides vast resources and opportunities, it cannot instill the resilience needed to navigate an uncertain future. This session will inspire educators to discover meaningful approaches to help students find purpose and direction in an increasingly complex landscape. We will explore the importance of critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, emphasising the human skills essential for thriving alongside AI. Together, we will examine strategies to empower young generations to coexist with AI, fostering a mindset that embraces innovation while cultivating essential human qualities. Can practices like mindfulness and fostering creativity serve as vital tools for children to adapt and flourish? Join us in this engaging session as we redefine education for a new era and empower the next generation.
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

	Diverse Learners	Research to Reality for Aspiring Leaders
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM		Research to Reality for Aspiring Leaders
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
9:55 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.
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM	Morning Tea
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
10:50 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.
11:30 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.
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM	Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
12:55 PM - 1:30 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM	TBC - Sponsor session or Discussion time
1:35 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM	Do You See Me? Why Diverse Books are Important In this presentation she will use her personal experiences, professional background in mental health, and current work as a children’s author, to highlight the importance of ensuring diverse learners see themselves in stories, feel connected to others who understand them, and become engaged in reading and writing their own stories.
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:20 PM - 2:45 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!
2:50 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

	Sustainability in Schools
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM	Sustainability in Schools
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM	The Evolution of Sustainability in Schools The ResourceSmart Schools program has been managed by Sustainability Victoria since 2008. Throughout that time schools participating in the program have saved 110,00 tonnes of GHG emissions and millions of dollars from reducing their resource use however, the ways in which schools are undertaking the program, the actions they are taking and the understanding of what sustainability in schools can be has evolved and has become more sophisticated. Sustainability in schools is creating a dynamic learning environment leading the way in preparing students, teachers and the wider community with the skills and knowledge that will place them in the best position to thrive in a changing world.
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM	Creating a Greener Future Sharing strategies to promote sustainability in schools through resource efficiency, global perspectives, partnerships, curriculum integration, and inclusive approaches. Learn how to apply these practices in your educational setting to foster a sustainable mindset among students. We will explore resources and workshop innovative curriculum ideas that create exciting classroom and applied outcomes. We will discuss Net zero initiatives, investigating external partnership options and the implementation of student advocacy. Come armed with ideas and leave with individualised future plans to make your school an exciting Greener more sustainable environment.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM	Stretch Break
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM	Becoming a Sustainable School We will showcase how we have worked local council and Resource Smart Schools, linking with local business and networking and partnering with local churches and community groups. How we implemented our six bin recycling centres educating not only the children but the whole community that a sustainable school is just one part of a sustainable community. Embedding sustainability into the whole school curriculum to ensure everyone is onboard and showing the children what could happen if they don't look after their environment. Having been awarded the Community Leadership (Primary) School of the Year in 2024 was a huge achievement, gained by hosting events such as Clean Up Australia day for example. Finally, where to now? What are our next goals?
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM	Lunch Break
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM	TBC - Sponsor session or Discussion time
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
12:55 PM - 1:30 PM	Sustainability: A cross-curriculum priority - and why you should care We will workshop with practical activities, how to meaningfully incorporate Sustainability as a cross-curriculum priority for the already time-poor teacher with actual assessable learning outcomes. We will discuss: • Why Sustainability (Isn't that just like, recycling..?) • What Sustainability teaching and learning looks like at HEPS • Demonstrations of practical/hands on activities from a range of year levels • How to structure a scope and sequence based on VIC Curriculum within an SDG and RSS framework for real world outcomes • Developing Sustainability as a specialist area (set up, resources, curriculum, planning, assessment and reporting) • Meaningful integration of Sustainability into what you're already doing in the classroom • Whole school approach to Sustainability (Aligning learning with your AIP, school context and community)
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:35 PM - 2:15 PM	Empowering Young Leaders: A Model for Student-Led Sustainability Mount Waverley Primary School is a 5-Star Sustainable School, recognised for its integrated, student-led approaches that reflect their collective commitment to environmental stewardship. They regularly welcome visits from other schools eager to learn from their success with their Sustainability Captains leading the tours. In this session, the Sustainability Captains will guide you through their model, which ensures that all students are actively engaged in caring for one or more aspects of the school environment. They will also discuss how Sustainability is woven into the curriculum, sharing their scope and sequence with you.
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:20 PM - 2:45 PM	Afternoon Tea
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:50 PM - 3:30 PM	Making sustainable practices the norm through gamification and rewards. Discover how gamification can transform sustainability into a fun, everyday habit within your school. This session will explore how rewards, points, and challenges can drive actions like recycling and energy-saving among students and staff. We'll provide practical steps for setting up a digital rewards system and give examples of how it could work in a school setting. Learn how to track impact, engage students, and build a culture of environmental responsibility that’s both educational and rewarding.
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

	Knowledge Centre Program
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
9:55 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
10:40 AM - 10:45 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
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
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
12:30 PM - 12:50 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.
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
12:55 PM - 1:30 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:35 PM - 2:15 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
2:20 PM - 2:45 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
2:50 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 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.

	Classroom of The Future
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM	Beyond One-Size-Fits-All: AI-Augmented Learning In an era where every day new technologies reshaping education, how do we ensure that learning is tailored to meet individual needs? This session delves deep into the intersection of AI and education, focusing on how educators can leverage free and safe artificial intelligence tools to provide a more.
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
10:40 AM - 10:45 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
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
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
12:30 PM - 12:50 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.
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
12:55 PM - 1:30 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:35 PM - 2:15 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
2:20 PM - 2:45 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
2:50 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 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.

	AI in the Classroom
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
9:55 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
10:40 AM - 10:45 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.
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM	Lunch
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 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 - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM	Bringing democratic teaching to an AI world How can teachers make sure that they are applying best practice teaching in the era of AI - combining ancient and modern approaches to produce a pedagogical approach that leaves students truly engaged with the world beyond their schools.
12:55 PM - 1:30 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM	The use of AI to support reading engagement and comprehension We will explore how GenAI can be harnessed as a powerful tool to enhance teaching and planning. You will have the opportunity to actively utilise GenAI to enhance reading engagement and comprehension across all curriculum areas. Moreover, we will delve into how GenAI can support curriculum planning, all the while preserving the distinctive voice of individual teachers. This session offers a comprehensive planning component suitable for all K-12 educators.
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:35 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM	Afternoon Tea
2:20 PM - 2:45 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
2:50 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM	Beyond Algorithms: Equipping Students for a Collaborative Future with AI The Fourth Industrial Revolution is ushering children into a world defined by digital technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI). While technology provides vast resources and opportunities, it cannot instill the resilience needed to navigate an uncertain future. This session will inspire educators to discover meaningful approaches to help students find purpose and direction in an increasingly complex landscape. We will explore the importance of critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, emphasising the human skills essential for thriving alongside AI. Together, we will examine strategies to empower young generations to coexist with AI, fostering a mindset that embraces innovation while cultivating essential human qualities. Can practices like mindfulness and fostering creativity serve as vital tools for children to adapt and flourish? Join us in this engaging session as we redefine education for a new era and empower the next generation.
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

	Wellbeing for Future Focused Schools
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
9:55 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
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM	Morning Tea
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
10:50 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.
11:30 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.
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM	Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
12:55 PM - 1:30 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM	TBC - Sponsor session or Discussion time
1:35 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 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.
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:20 PM - 2:45 PM
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 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.
2:50 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

	Diverse Learners
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
9:55 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.
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM	Morning Tea
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
10:50 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.
11:30 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.
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM	Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
12:55 PM - 1:30 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM	TBC - Sponsor session or Discussion time
1:35 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM	Do You See Me? Why Diverse Books are Important In this presentation she will use her personal experiences, professional background in mental health, and current work as a children’s author, to highlight the importance of ensuring diverse learners see themselves in stories, feel connected to others who understand them, and become engaged in reading and writing their own stories.
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:20 PM - 2:45 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!
2:50 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

	Research to Reality for Aspiring Leaders
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
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
12:55 PM - 1:30 PM
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:35 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:20 PM - 2:45 PM
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:50 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

	Sustainability in Schools
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM	Sustainability in Schools
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM	The Evolution of Sustainability in Schools The ResourceSmart Schools program has been managed by Sustainability Victoria since 2008. Throughout that time schools participating in the program have saved 110,00 tonnes of GHG emissions and millions of dollars from reducing their resource use however, the ways in which schools are undertaking the program, the actions they are taking and the understanding of what sustainability in schools can be has evolved and has become more sophisticated. Sustainability in schools is creating a dynamic learning environment leading the way in preparing students, teachers and the wider community with the skills and knowledge that will place them in the best position to thrive in a changing world.
9:05 AM - 9:55 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM	Creating a Greener Future Sharing strategies to promote sustainability in schools through resource efficiency, global perspectives, partnerships, curriculum integration, and inclusive approaches. Learn how to apply these practices in your educational setting to foster a sustainable mindset among students. We will explore resources and workshop innovative curriculum ideas that create exciting classroom and applied outcomes. We will discuss Net zero initiatives, investigating external partnership options and the implementation of student advocacy. Come armed with ideas and leave with individualised future plans to make your school an exciting Greener more sustainable environment.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM	Stretch Break
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM	Becoming a Sustainable School We will showcase how we have worked local council and Resource Smart Schools, linking with local business and networking and partnering with local churches and community groups. How we implemented our six bin recycling centres educating not only the children but the whole community that a sustainable school is just one part of a sustainable community. Embedding sustainability into the whole school curriculum to ensure everyone is onboard and showing the children what could happen if they don't look after their environment. Having been awarded the Community Leadership (Primary) School of the Year in 2024 was a huge achievement, gained by hosting events such as Clean Up Australia day for example. Finally, where to now? What are our next goals?
11:10 AM - 11:40 AM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM	Lunch Break
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM	TBC - Sponsor session or Discussion time
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
12:55 PM - 1:20 PM
12:55 PM - 1:30 PM	Sustainability: A cross-curriculum priority - and why you should care We will workshop with practical activities, how to meaningfully incorporate Sustainability as a cross-curriculum priority for the already time-poor teacher with actual assessable learning outcomes. We will discuss: • Why Sustainability (Isn't that just like, recycling..?) • What Sustainability teaching and learning looks like at HEPS • Demonstrations of practical/hands on activities from a range of year levels • How to structure a scope and sequence based on VIC Curriculum within an SDG and RSS framework for real world outcomes • Developing Sustainability as a specialist area (set up, resources, curriculum, planning, assessment and reporting) • Meaningful integration of Sustainability into what you're already doing in the classroom • Whole school approach to Sustainability (Aligning learning with your AIP, school context and community)
1:25 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
1:35 PM - 2:15 PM	Empowering Young Leaders: A Model for Student-Led Sustainability Mount Waverley Primary School is a 5-Star Sustainable School, recognised for its integrated, student-led approaches that reflect their collective commitment to environmental stewardship. They regularly welcome visits from other schools eager to learn from their success with their Sustainability Captains leading the tours. In this session, the Sustainability Captains will guide you through their model, which ensures that all students are actively engaged in caring for one or more aspects of the school environment. They will also discuss how Sustainability is woven into the curriculum, sharing their scope and sequence with you.
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
1:50 PM - 2:35 PM
2:00 PM - 2:20 PM
2:20 PM - 2:45 PM	Afternoon Tea
2:20 PM - 2:55 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:40 PM - 3:25 PM
2:50 PM - 3:30 PM	Making sustainable practices the norm through gamification and rewards. Discover how gamification can transform sustainability into a fun, everyday habit within your school. This session will explore how rewards, points, and challenges can drive actions like recycling and energy-saving among students and staff. We'll provide practical steps for setting up a digital rewards system and give examples of how it could work in a school setting. Learn how to track impact, engage students, and build a culture of environmental responsibility that’s both educational and rewarding.
3:00 PM - 3:40 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

Friday, August 29, 2025

	Knowledge Centre Program	Classroom of the Future	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	Hold for Event Partner	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.
9:55 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	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 - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM			Stretch Break
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
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM			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.
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM			Lunch Break
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
12:30 PM - 1:15 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.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM	Reframing conflict in schools with PARC As dynamic, living and evolving communities made up of a mix of personalities, perspectives, cultures and lived experiences, schools are fertile ground for conflict. Whether it involves teachers, students or parents, unaddressed or ignored conflict can lead to anxiety, disrupt learning and damage relationships undermining a school’s cohesion and community. In this session, learn how the four pillars of Pause Acknowledge Reflect Connect underpin the PARC framework for shared learning, understanding, strategies and tools to approach conflict with a growth mindset, helpful communication and in a future focused way.	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.
1:20 PM - 2:00 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.
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.
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM			Afternoon Tea
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.	I never knew AI could do that! Moving beyond the hype to practical, time saving applications Since the recent birth of GenAI educators have been inundated with multiple AI tools and their promises to make teaching easier and faster. Over the past two years AI has moved quickly beyond the need to “prompt” to instead creating built for purpose tools that truly now meet the initial objectives laid out. In this session we will investigate the promise of AI and actively demonstrate practical, free, safe and genuinely time-saving ways these tools can be used to help you in your classroom to create, adapt and assess on formative education strategies
2:30 PM - 3:10 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	TBC	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.

	AI in the Classroom	Wellbeing for Future Focused Schools	Diverse Learners
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.	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
9:55 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.	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 - 11:00 AM		Morning Tea	Morning Tea
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM	Stretch break
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		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.	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.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM	Lunch Break
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 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!	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.
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM	Empowering Classrooms with AI: Harnessing Innovative Tools for Engaged Learning This session will explore the evolving role of AI in education, focusing on practical applications at MacKillop Catholic College. We will begin by outlining our current policies on AI, providing insight into how our school and the wider Diocese approach AI integration. We will then introduce a range of AI tools and resources that are currently being used by both staff and students. You’ll learn how AI is helping staff streamline their workload, allowing for more time to focus on meaningful teaching practices. Additionally, we'll showcase how AI supports students, enabling them to engage more deeply with their learning and achieve higher standards. Whether you're new to AI or looking to expand its use in your school, this session will offer valuable insights into how AI can transform both teaching and learning environments.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM		Lunch Break	Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 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 - 2:15 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.	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
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM	Afternoon Tea
2:20 PM - 3:00 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.	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	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.
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

	Leading a Digital School
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM	Best Practice in a Digital School Using A.I., incorporating virtual reality and constantly updating technology - are these our key foci as leaders in digital schools? Well they are certainly part of it and we will talk about how to harness new programmes and tools for the benefit of your staff and students. However, the overarching requirements of best practise when it comes to ‘digital schools’ will come down to two key things that are relatively simple and relatively analogue⸺relationships and critical thinking. In a digital world, more than ever before, the human connection between a student and teacher will become paramount. Our job as leaders is to ensure that our staff understand that learning is first and foremost a human interaction. In this session, we will explore not only what high-performing relationships look like in the classroom and how to create them, we will also delve into what constitutes a ‘thinking classroom’ and break down the best ways to prepare your students for whatever future they will find themselves in.
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM	Learning by expanding: A 21st century framework for a digitally inclusive classroom. Expansive learning theory is a revised version of a 100-year-old educational theory that allows for inclusion of various interactions between technologies, communities and complex settings within a school system to attain set goals. It provides a robust framework for practitioners in school settings, researchers in educational context and policy makers in learning environments by embracing newer technological advancements by incorporating internal changes within an institution or organisation. The framework accommodates the needs of diverse learners and teachers in complex classroom settings, and specifically supports digital tools and explorative/continuous real-time learning pedagogies relevant for 21st Century classrooms. In this presentation I will provide a solid framework that teachers, school management, policy makers and researchers can use to enable a digitally inclusive classroom to attain lesson or unit learning goals. I will use some concrete examples from my PhD thesis using Melbourne case studies and some of my research work conducted at Deakin University as a Research Fellow.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM	Morning Tea
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM	Strategic leadership in digital transformation — Overcoming common barriers Implementing digital transformation in schools involves more than technology adoption; it requires strategic, systemic change. This presentation will address the challenges of resistance to change, skill gaps, and limitations, and explore strategies for establishing a school culture that supports innovation among all stakeholders.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM	Leading a Safe Digital School In today's digital climate, effective leadership requires a proactive approach, particularly when it comes to cyber security and the digital wellbeing of all within a school community. The Leading a Safe Digital School Framework supports school leaders and their teams to evaluate their school's cyber maturity and charter a path for improving the safety, security and wellbeing of their whole community. Participants in this session will: • Uncover the trending habits and online challenges faced by young people • Reflect on the systems, processes and programs currently embedded within their school's eco-system • Uncover the three fundamental principles of leading a safe digital school • Use the Cyber Safety Project Leading Safe Digital Schools Maturity Matrix to uncover areas opportunities for continual improvement • Create a plan using the skills and knowledge gained to future proof the digital safety and wellbeing of their school community.
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM	Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM	TBC - Travis Smith, K-12 Industry Lead, Microsoft
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM	The Role of the Leader in Digital Schools In today's rapidly evolving educational landscape, the integration of digital technologies is transforming how students learn and how schools operate. Leaders play a pivotal role in navigating these changes, ensuring that technology is used effectively to enhance teaching and learning, promote collaboration, and support student engagement and achievement. As we dive into this topic, we'll explore how effective digital school leaders cultivate a vision for technology integration, create an inclusive digital culture, prioritise professional development, and ensure access to resources that foster innovation and digital literacy. By embracing these roles, leaders can build a dynamic, future-ready learning environment that empowers both students and teachers to thrive in the digital age.
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:10 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	Hold for Event Partner	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.
9:55 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 - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 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
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
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
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM	Reframing conflict in schools with PARC As dynamic, living and evolving communities made up of a mix of personalities, perspectives, cultures and lived experiences, schools are fertile ground for conflict. Whether it involves teachers, students or parents, unaddressed or ignored conflict can lead to anxiety, disrupt learning and damage relationships undermining a school’s cohesion and community. In this session, learn how the four pillars of Pause Acknowledge Reflect Connect underpin the PARC framework for shared learning, understanding, strategies and tools to approach conflict with a growth mindset, helpful communication and in a future focused way.	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.
1:20 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.
2:00 PM - 2:25 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.	I never knew AI could do that! Moving beyond the hype to practical, time saving applications Since the recent birth of GenAI educators have been inundated with multiple AI tools and their promises to make teaching easier and faster. Over the past two years AI has moved quickly beyond the need to “prompt” to instead creating built for purpose tools that truly now meet the initial objectives laid out. In this session we will investigate the promise of AI and actively demonstrate practical, free, safe and genuinely time-saving ways these tools can be used to help you in your classroom to create, adapt and assess on formative education strategies
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM	TBC	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
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.
9:15 AM - 9:45 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.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM	Stretch Break	Stretch break
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM	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.	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
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM	Lunch Break	Lunch Break
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:30 PM - 1:15 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.	Empowering Classrooms with AI: Harnessing Innovative Tools for Engaged Learning This session will explore the evolving role of AI in education, focusing on practical applications at MacKillop Catholic College. We will begin by outlining our current policies on AI, providing insight into how our school and the wider Diocese approach AI integration. We will then introduce a range of AI tools and resources that are currently being used by both staff and students. You’ll learn how AI is helping staff streamline their workload, allowing for more time to focus on meaningful teaching practices. Additionally, we'll showcase how AI supports students, enabling them to engage more deeply with their learning and achieve higher standards. Whether you're new to AI or looking to expand its use in your school, this session will offer valuable insights into how AI can transform both teaching and learning environments.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 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.	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 - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM	Afternoon Tea	Afternoon Tea
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:10 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?	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.
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

	Wellbeing for Future Focused Schools	Diverse Learners
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.	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
9:55 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.	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 - 11:00 AM	Morning Tea	Morning Tea
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM	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.	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.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 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!	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.
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM	Lunch Break	Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 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.	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
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 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.	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
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

	Leading a Digital School
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM	Best Practice in a Digital School Using A.I., incorporating virtual reality and constantly updating technology - are these our key foci as leaders in digital schools? Well they are certainly part of it and we will talk about how to harness new programmes and tools for the benefit of your staff and students. However, the overarching requirements of best practise when it comes to ‘digital schools’ will come down to two key things that are relatively simple and relatively analogue⸺relationships and critical thinking. In a digital world, more than ever before, the human connection between a student and teacher will become paramount. Our job as leaders is to ensure that our staff understand that learning is first and foremost a human interaction. In this session, we will explore not only what high-performing relationships look like in the classroom and how to create them, we will also delve into what constitutes a ‘thinking classroom’ and break down the best ways to prepare your students for whatever future they will find themselves in.
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM	Learning by expanding: A 21st century framework for a digitally inclusive classroom. Expansive learning theory is a revised version of a 100-year-old educational theory that allows for inclusion of various interactions between technologies, communities and complex settings within a school system to attain set goals. It provides a robust framework for practitioners in school settings, researchers in educational context and policy makers in learning environments by embracing newer technological advancements by incorporating internal changes within an institution or organisation. The framework accommodates the needs of diverse learners and teachers in complex classroom settings, and specifically supports digital tools and explorative/continuous real-time learning pedagogies relevant for 21st Century classrooms. In this presentation I will provide a solid framework that teachers, school management, policy makers and researchers can use to enable a digitally inclusive classroom to attain lesson or unit learning goals. I will use some concrete examples from my PhD thesis using Melbourne case studies and some of my research work conducted at Deakin University as a Research Fellow.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM	Morning Tea
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM	Strategic leadership in digital transformation — Overcoming common barriers Implementing digital transformation in schools involves more than technology adoption; it requires strategic, systemic change. This presentation will address the challenges of resistance to change, skill gaps, and limitations, and explore strategies for establishing a school culture that supports innovation among all stakeholders.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM	Leading a Safe Digital School In today's digital climate, effective leadership requires a proactive approach, particularly when it comes to cyber security and the digital wellbeing of all within a school community. The Leading a Safe Digital School Framework supports school leaders and their teams to evaluate their school's cyber maturity and charter a path for improving the safety, security and wellbeing of their whole community. Participants in this session will: • Uncover the trending habits and online challenges faced by young people • Reflect on the systems, processes and programs currently embedded within their school's eco-system • Uncover the three fundamental principles of leading a safe digital school • Use the Cyber Safety Project Leading Safe Digital Schools Maturity Matrix to uncover areas opportunities for continual improvement • Create a plan using the skills and knowledge gained to future proof the digital safety and wellbeing of their school community.
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM	Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM	TBC - Travis Smith, K-12 Industry Lead, Microsoft
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM	The Role of the Leader in Digital Schools In today's rapidly evolving educational landscape, the integration of digital technologies is transforming how students learn and how schools operate. Leaders play a pivotal role in navigating these changes, ensuring that technology is used effectively to enhance teaching and learning, promote collaboration, and support student engagement and achievement. As we dive into this topic, we'll explore how effective digital school leaders cultivate a vision for technology integration, create an inclusive digital culture, prioritise professional development, and ensure access to resources that foster innovation and digital literacy. By embracing these roles, leaders can build a dynamic, future-ready learning environment that empowers both students and teachers to thrive in the digital age.
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

	Knowledge Centre Program
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM	Hold for Event Partner
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 - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 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
11:30 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
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM	Reframing conflict in schools with PARC As dynamic, living and evolving communities made up of a mix of personalities, perspectives, cultures and lived experiences, schools are fertile ground for conflict. Whether it involves teachers, students or parents, unaddressed or ignored conflict can lead to anxiety, disrupt learning and damage relationships undermining a school’s cohesion and community. In this session, learn how the four pillars of Pause Acknowledge Reflect Connect underpin the PARC framework for shared learning, understanding, strategies and tools to approach conflict with a growth mindset, helpful communication and in a future focused way.
1:20 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.
2:00 PM - 2:25 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
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM	TBC

	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.
9:55 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 - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM	Supporting Teacher Wellbeing in the classroom
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
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
12:30 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.
1:20 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.
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM	I never knew AI could do that! Moving beyond the hype to practical, time saving applications Since the recent birth of GenAI educators have been inundated with multiple AI tools and their promises to make teaching easier and faster. Over the past two years AI has moved quickly beyond the need to “prompt” to instead creating built for purpose tools that truly now meet the initial objectives laid out. In this session we will investigate the promise of AI and actively demonstrate practical, free, safe and genuinely time-saving ways these tools can be used to help you in your classroom to create, adapt and assess on formative education strategies
2:30 PM - 3:10 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
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
9:55 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 - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM	Stretch Break
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM	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.
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM	Lunch Break
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:30 PM - 1:15 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.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 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.
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM	Afternoon Tea
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:10 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
9:55 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 - 11:00 AM
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM	Stretch break
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
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM	Lunch Break
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM	Empowering Classrooms with AI: Harnessing Innovative Tools for Engaged Learning This session will explore the evolving role of AI in education, focusing on practical applications at MacKillop Catholic College. We will begin by outlining our current policies on AI, providing insight into how our school and the wider Diocese approach AI integration. We will then introduce a range of AI tools and resources that are currently being used by both staff and students. You’ll learn how AI is helping staff streamline their workload, allowing for more time to focus on meaningful teaching practices. Additionally, we'll showcase how AI supports students, enabling them to engage more deeply with their learning and achieve higher standards. Whether you're new to AI or looking to expand its use in your school, this session will offer valuable insights into how AI can transform both teaching and learning environments.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:15 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 - 2:15 PM
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM	Afternoon Tea
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.
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
9:55 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 - 11:00 AM	Morning Tea
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM	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.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 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!
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM	Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 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.
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 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.
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:10 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
9:55 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 - 11:00 AM	Morning Tea
10:40 AM - 10:45 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.
11:30 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.
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM	Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
1:20 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
2:00 PM - 2:25 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
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM

	Leading a Digital School
9:05 AM - 9:50 AM	Best Practice in a Digital School Using A.I., incorporating virtual reality and constantly updating technology - are these our key foci as leaders in digital schools? Well they are certainly part of it and we will talk about how to harness new programmes and tools for the benefit of your staff and students. However, the overarching requirements of best practise when it comes to ‘digital schools’ will come down to two key things that are relatively simple and relatively analogue⸺relationships and critical thinking. In a digital world, more than ever before, the human connection between a student and teacher will become paramount. Our job as leaders is to ensure that our staff understand that learning is first and foremost a human interaction. In this session, we will explore not only what high-performing relationships look like in the classroom and how to create them, we will also delve into what constitutes a ‘thinking classroom’ and break down the best ways to prepare your students for whatever future they will find themselves in.
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
9:55 AM - 10:40 AM	Learning by expanding: A 21st century framework for a digitally inclusive classroom. Expansive learning theory is a revised version of a 100-year-old educational theory that allows for inclusion of various interactions between technologies, communities and complex settings within a school system to attain set goals. It provides a robust framework for practitioners in school settings, researchers in educational context and policy makers in learning environments by embracing newer technological advancements by incorporating internal changes within an institution or organisation. The framework accommodates the needs of diverse learners and teachers in complex classroom settings, and specifically supports digital tools and explorative/continuous real-time learning pedagogies relevant for 21st Century classrooms. In this presentation I will provide a solid framework that teachers, school management, policy makers and researchers can use to enable a digitally inclusive classroom to attain lesson or unit learning goals. I will use some concrete examples from my PhD thesis using Melbourne case studies and some of my research work conducted at Deakin University as a Research Fellow.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM	Morning Tea
10:40 AM - 10:45 AM
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM	Strategic leadership in digital transformation — Overcoming common barriers Implementing digital transformation in schools involves more than technology adoption; it requires strategic, systemic change. This presentation will address the challenges of resistance to change, skill gaps, and limitations, and explore strategies for establishing a school culture that supports innovation among all stakeholders.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM	Leading a Safe Digital School In today's digital climate, effective leadership requires a proactive approach, particularly when it comes to cyber security and the digital wellbeing of all within a school community. The Leading a Safe Digital School Framework supports school leaders and their teams to evaluate their school's cyber maturity and charter a path for improving the safety, security and wellbeing of their whole community. Participants in this session will: • Uncover the trending habits and online challenges faced by young people • Reflect on the systems, processes and programs currently embedded within their school's eco-system • Uncover the three fundamental principles of leading a safe digital school • Use the Cyber Safety Project Leading Safe Digital Schools Maturity Matrix to uncover areas opportunities for continual improvement • Create a plan using the skills and knowledge gained to future proof the digital safety and wellbeing of their school community.
12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM	Lunch Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
1:20 PM - 2:00 PM
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM	TBC - Travis Smith, K-12 Industry Lead, Microsoft
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
2:20 PM - 3:00 PM	The Role of the Leader in Digital Schools In today's rapidly evolving educational landscape, the integration of digital technologies is transforming how students learn and how schools operate. Leaders play a pivotal role in navigating these changes, ensuring that technology is used effectively to enhance teaching and learning, promote collaboration, and support student engagement and achievement. As we dive into this topic, we'll explore how effective digital school leaders cultivate a vision for technology integration, create an inclusive digital culture, prioritise professional development, and ensure access to resources that foster innovation and digital literacy. By embracing these roles, leaders can build a dynamic, future-ready learning environment that empowers both students and teachers to thrive in the digital age.
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM