In this episode, we visit a school that's setting its students up to dream big, work hard and become ‘all they can be’, with the support of their teachers and the community around them.

Principal Alison Forthuber is determined to ensure every child feels seen and valued, sharing why high expectations, early intervention and holistic support matter. Meanwhile, Kate, a mother of three, opens up about how wider community support ensures her children can shine at school – and the programs that make a big difference to their education.

CREDITS 

Narrator: Sarah Macdonald  

Audio production: Mylk Media  

Series producers: Jacqui Ooi, Carla Horton, Kim Batchelor, Kristina Warne

Theme music written and performed by Faith Kayrooz

To learn how you can help young Australians realise their potential, visit thesmithfamily.com.au  

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As a nine-year-old, George was facing expulsion from primary school. Now he's a university leader, opening doors for students of all backgrounds.

Distinguished Professor George Williams AO shares his journey from "juvenile delinquent" to Vice-Chancellor, starting with one teacher who changed his life trajectory.

Plus, demographer Dr Liz Allen returns to talk about the educators and moments that transformed her path – from homeless at 16 to completing a PhD.

Together, they make the case for why Australia needs a fairer education system and better support for students, no matter their life circumstances.

CREDITS

Narrator: Sarah Macdonald

Audio production: Mylk Media

Series producers: Jacqui Ooi, Carla Horton, Kim Batchelor, Kristina Warne

Theme music written and performed by Faith Kayrooz

To learn how you can help young Australians realise their potential, visit thesmithfamily.com.au

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At 12, Josh was told he was “the man of the house”. His life began amid instability – frequent moves, a turbulent home life and adult responsibilities thrust on him far too young.

Josh reveals how grit, courage and the right support helped him escape disadvantage and create a life and career he never could have imagined. We also hear from Robyn, the Smith Family support worker who backed him for more than a decade, and from his parents and partner – underscoring the crucial need to have people in your corner. 

CREDITS 

Narrator: Sarah Macdonald  

Audio production: Mylk Media  

Series producers: Jacqui Ooi, Carla Horton, Kim Batchelor, Kristina Warne

Theme music written and performed by Faith Kayrooz

To learn how you can help young Australians realise their potential, visit thesmithfamily.com.au  

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.