Teach NSW Podcast

In this episode, we’re joined by Aimee, an experienced NSW public school teacher passionate about creating inclusive and future-focused learning environments through the purposeful use of technology. Aimee discusses how digital tools can amplify student voice, support engagement, create more accessible learning opportunities and the importance of connecting technology with strong pedagogy. She sha...

In this episode, we’re joined by Technology and Applied Studies (TAS) teachers Melissa and John, who share what makes TAS such a dynamic and rewarding subject area. From hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving to the broad range of subjects and career pathways it offers, they discuss the diverse opportunities, flexibility and lasting impact that make TAS teaching a fulfilling career for e...

In this episode, we’re joined by Anita, an experienced educator and High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) Adviser, to discuss all things HGPE. We learn about the Inspire program and how schools can apply the HPGE Policy when supporting students to reach their potential. We also discuss practical approaches for identifying and supporting high-potential students, including explicit teaching, di...

In this episode, Nick Magriplis, Director of Public Schools, joins us on the couch to reflect on his career journey, shaped by a passion for literature, language and the belief that every young person deserves access to a high-quality public education. Nick shares how his experiences across diverse school communities have shaped his leadership, reinforced his commitment to equity and student voice...

In this episode, we speak with Krystal, HALT Talent Pipeline Coordinator, about achieving Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher (HALT) accreditation. She shares practical advice and insights to help teachers navigate their professional learning journey, covering both the accreditation process and its benefits, while highlighting how HALT recognises and rewards classroom expertise, mentorship and pr...

In this episode, Katie and Maddie reflect on their experiences navigating the first 5 years of teaching, offering insights from both primary and secondary school settings. From establishing routines and building confidence to achieving key milestones and finding support networks, they discuss what beginning teachers can expect as they grow into the profession. They also explore the importance of d...

In this episode, we welcome Rodney, Head Teacher Programs and Pride in Education Events Stream Lead, to discuss the power of being your authentic self and the importance of creating safe, inclusive spaces where every student feels seen and valued. We also explore his work with the Pride Network, leading major initiatives such as Mardi Gras, championing inclusion across the department and why commu...

Joanne, Executive Director of the School Leadership Institute, shares her journey from classroom teacher to principal and now executive leader. We discuss the mentors who shaped her career, the importance of recognising that leadership exists at every level and how embracing feedback can strengthen your impact. We also explore the School Leadership Institute, the principles of effective leadership...

Season 3 of the Teach NSW Podcast is here, bringing fresh perspectives, new voices and meaningful conversations from across the NSW public education landscape. Returning hosts Shannon and Siobhan are joined by new co-hosts Katie and Maddie, who bring their passion for public education and strong connections to the students and communities they serve. We acknowledge that this episode of the Teach N...

In this episode, Kate, a Year 7 transition teacher with 25 years of experience across regional and remote NSW public schools, shares how her first placement in Broken Hill became the foundation of her career. She also explores her approach to design thinking, highlighting the power of authentic, real-world learning to engage students and create meaningful impact. We acknowledge that this episode o...

Are you a pre-service teacher navigating the early stages of your career? In this Season 2 finale, Shannon and Siobhan share key learnings from their own pre-service teaching days and the practical advice they wish they’d known. We dive into the questions on the mind of every pre-service teacher: how to find casual work, make the most out of your professional experience placements and even what to...

What if students could experience the joy of teaching before finishing high school?  In this episode, we sit down with Perry, founder of the Future Teachers Club (FTC) and Sheridan, FTC coordinator, to explore how this innovative co-curricular initiative at Macquarie Fields High School is shaping the next generation of teachers.  Founded by Perry in 2013, the FTC has welcomed over 300 participants...

In this episode, we shine a light on a unique and vital part of the NSW public school system – the hospital school. Our guest, Adam, a School Learning Support Officer (SLSO) at The Hospital School at Westmead, shares his journey into education after a major career change and reflects on the deeply human side of supporting students undergoing medical treatment.  Adam offers thoughtful insights into...

In honour of World Teachers’ Day, we sit down with Deb Summerhayes, Deputy Secretary, Public Schools, to celebrate the heart of our education system: teachers. With more than 35 years of experience in public education, Deb shares her journey from English teacher to system leader. She reflects on the mentors who shaped her path and a former student who reminded her how one school excursion can chan...

In this episode, we sit down with Marianne, a passionate arts teacher and chief education officer at The Arts Unit, about how the arts can ignite student engagement and inspire creative teaching.  From her beginnings as a professional musician to leading statewide arts initiatives, Marianne shares how the arts have shaped her teaching journey. Drawing on her experience in low socioeconomic communi...

Do you have students who dream of tackling some of the world’s biggest challenges? In this episode, we explore the power of STEM education with Scott Sleap, STEM Enrichment Coordinator, who has dedicated his career to advancing STEM learning and fostering equity for students in regional and rural communities. We begin by unpacking what STEM really means – not as separate subjects, but as an integr...

In this episode, we bust the myth of libraries as ‘silent spaces’ and explore their vibrant possibilities with Jade, Teacher Librarian and NSW Premier’s Programs Officer. Follow Jade’s pathway to retraining as a teacher librarian, a unique role where her passion for literacy, student wellbeing and a love for reading can truly thrive. From ‘Throw Rug Thursdays’ and ‘Murder Mystery Mondays’ to pop-u...

In this episode, we chat with Matt, Deputy Principal - Inclusion and Support, to explore inclusive education through the lens of equity, empathy and advocacy.  From psychology student to passionate teacher, Matt shares his journey into teaching and how lived experience, strong mentors and a student-first approach, ignited his passion for inclusive education. Together, we dive into what meaningful...

Have you considered how casual teaching could open doors for you?  In this episode, we sit down with Scott, History and Vocational Education and Training (VET) Teacher, as he reflects on how casual teaching shaped his career in unexpected ways. What began as a way to gain classroom experience soon became the foundation for building professional networks, exploring new subject areas and ultimately...

What happens when a great science teacher meets a curious mind? Proud Wiradjuri woman, astrophysicist and TikTok superstar, Dr Kirsten Banks, joins us on the Teach NSW Podcast, to reflect on the impact of her public school experience. It all began with a Year 10 excursion to see a Hubble Space Telescope documentary, sparking a passion for science that set the trajectory of her career in astrophysi...

Curious about the power of AI in education? This week, we’re doubling the excitement with Richard, an assistant principal and Tennille, a science teacher in NSW public schools. They join us to share their hands-on experience with NSWEduChat, a generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tool developed by the NSW Department of Education. We explore how NSWEduChat can be a trusted partner and support...

Ready to view mathematics education from a new perspective? In this episode, we are joined on the couch by Catherine Attard, Professor - Mathematics Education, Western Sydney University,  as we reimagine approaches to teaching and learning mathematics. Together, we dive into practical strategies for making it a creative, colourful and engaging subject in the classroom. As a distinguished researche...

In this episode, we chat with Ben, Chief Education Officer, System Improvement, to unpack what works best for student learning across NSW public schools through a system-level lens. Drawing on almost 20 years of experience within the NSW public education system, Ben is a self-confessed nerd who was always really interested in ‘how schools work’. We explore how he was able to harness a passion for...

In this episode, we are joined on the couch by John, Assistant Principal - Inclusive/Special Education, who has over 15 years of experience teaching across Schools for Specific Purposes (SSPs) and support units within comprehensive schools.  To dive in, we question what ‘inclusivity’ really means in a school context. For John, it’s about providing every student with access to learning and social c...

Did you know that nearly 40% of NSW public school students come from an English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D) background? In this episode, we are joined on the couch by Rosie, EAL/D Education Leader, to shine a spotlight on the critical role teachers play in supporting students from diverse language backgrounds. Curious about what day-to-day teaching in an Intensive English Centre (IEC...