Hero Blog

Learning through Kindness, Connection and Leadership: Highlights from Season 3 of the Education Heroes Podcast

Written by Paul Sibson | Dec 14, 2023 11:32:00 PM

That’s a wrap on Season 3 of the Education Heroes Podcast, where host Paul Sibson (Hero Co-founder and CEO) shared inspiring conversations with everyday heroes who are helping unleash the potential of learners across New Zealand, Australia and the UK.

In case you missed any episodes, here’s a recap of Season 3’s captivating conversations!

1. Doug Bailey - Choose to be Kind

To kick off Season 3, Paul was joined by Doug Bailey, a student-centred educator, with a passion for cultural change and championing kindness and restorative practices. Doug shared his inspiring journey through education, to becoming an AFL footballer and School Leader - all while living by the maxim, “in a world where you can choose to be anything, choose to be kind.”

Listen on the Hero Website | Spotify | Apple Podcasts

 

 

2. Dr Phil Cummins - Game Changing Leadership for Schools of Tomorrow

In this episode, Paul sat down with Dr Phil Cummins, Managing Partner at a School for Tomorrow, co-host of the Game Changers Podcast, Associate Professor of Education & Enterprise, and author of over 30 books - among other educational pursuits! This episode delved into Phil's personal journey through education, and extensive expertise in character & purpose, educational strategy, leadership, future-fit curriculum, and indigenous education.

Listen on the Hero Website | Spotify | Apple Podcasts

 

 

3. Kerry McConaghy and Jenny Washington - Two Sisters, Two Principals, Two Countries

It was a double dose of leadership inspiration in Episode 3, featuring sister duo and school principals, Kerry McConaghy (Cammeray Public School, NSW) and Jenny Washington (Te Ara Maurea Roydvale School, Christchurch). Kerry and Jenny shared their fascinating experiences as sisters who have pursued parallel paths into education, now leading primary schools in two countries.

Listen on the Hero Website | Spotify | Apple Podcasts

 

 

4. Joe Mitchell - The Power of Connection for Learning

In Episode 4, Paul chatted with Joe Mitchell, a School Improvement Lead Headteacher in West Yorkshire, UK. Joe shared his journey through education, including a sliding doors moment that led him towards a teaching career, and the importance of strong relationships to help children feel safe and cared for within a school, setting the foundation for all learning.

Listen on the Hero Website | Spotify | Apple Podcasts

 

 

5. Lessons in Leadership from 2023's Education Heroes

We capped off the year on a high with a special remix episode – our 2023 Heroes Highlights! This episode revisited some of the incredible journeys and helpful insights from this year’s Education Heroes from across New Zealand, Australia and the UK. Overflowing with inspiration and practical tools, this is a must listen for educators gearing up for 2024!

Listen on the Hero Website | Spotify | Apple Podcasts

 

 

That’s a wrap!

As we wrap up Season 3 of the Education Heroes Podcast, we extend a big thank you to our listeners for joining us and to our heroic guests for sharing their valuable insights and experiences.

Do you know an educational hero that you think has an interesting story to tell? Recommend a hero here, and they could feature on the next season, in 2024.

Subscribe on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories of educators who are making a difference!