Our conversation with Dr. Anne Knock dives straight into the messy, exciting work of redesigning schools for the future.

Across the episode we unpack how leaders can think more like complexity strategists; reading the whole system rather than just reacting to individual problems, and how three levers; learner experience, professional culture and physical space, can work together rather than in silos. We talk about what it really looks like when teachers become designers of learning, not just deliverers of content, and how small changes to the environment or timetable can create huge shifts in student engagement.

Anne shares stories from her international study tours, including impactful moments on trains and in corridors where educators debriefed what they had seen and began to reimagine what might be possible back in their own contexts. We reflect on the importance of going beyond visually pleasing spaces, to ask how the environment changes the conversations, relationships and learning in the room.

Throughout the episode, Anne shares provocations about the future education workforce, the kinds of spaces that invite belonging, and the courage it takes to disrupt long held assumptions about how school should work. It is an invitation to look closely at the everyday spaces of classrooms, staffrooms and schools, and to consider what might be shifted or reimagined. Our discussion explores the value of experimenting with new approaches and asked how we might design environments where both students and adults genuinely want to be.

Anne’s new book School by Design: A Field Guide to Transforming Learning, Culture and Space, is out now.

Credits:

Podcast theme music composed by Julian Ferraretto

Logo Design by Meredith Baker

Photography by Carmen Roberts

Investing in people

In this episode of Stepping into [ed]Leadership, we sit down with highly experienced and inspirational Middle Leader, Tracey Matyk from Woodcroft College. Tracey shares her journey from scientist to teacher, how working with undergraduate students during her PhD drew her into education, and why she has never looked back. She reflects on stepping into her first leadership role as Head of Science, the importance of understanding the “nuts and bolts” of management, and how formal training helped her feel ready to lead.

Tracey unpacks her belief that people are the number one resource, and that to get leadership right, you have to get management right. We talk about private conversations with staff, investing in people so they are well equipped, and moving with “ferocious warmth” between head and heart. After ten years as Head of Science, Tracey took a sideways step into pastoral leadership as Head of Year 9–10, following a cohort through their transition from Middle to Senior School. We explore the similarities and differences between leading a faculty and leading a year level, including the reality that much of the work is relational: delicate conversations, emails and phone calls with parents, building culture, and supporting both staff and students.

Throughout the conversation, Tracey shares how she has slowly built confidence in handling difficult conversations, the value of coaching and great role models, and the power of reflective, collaborative line management. She describes creating a sense of community and belonging for students, especially in the post‑COVID era, and being a “relationship facilitator.” Tracey also speaks about her aspirations for senior leadership and her advice to emerging leaders: back yourself, take your time, watch and listen, lean on trusted colleagues, and never underestimate the power of observation.

We know you will gain a lot from this engaging episode.

Credits:

Podcast theme music composed by Julian Ferraretto

Logo Design by Meredith Baker

Photography by Carmen Roberts

Stepping Back into schools

In this episode, we welcome back returning guest Nicholas Brice. After several years with the SACE Board, Nick has made a sea change, joining Peninsula Grammar as Deputy Principal. He shares what it’s been like to step back into schools, reconnect with students and teachers, and rediscover the rhythm and energy of daily school life.

Nick reflects on the first few weeks of Term 1, speaking candidly about the excitement and vulnerability that come with moving to a new community. He discusses the importance of finding environments where leaders can grow, the value of asking the right questions during interviews, and the role of a great Executive Assistant in helping senior leaders stay grounded and supported.

We touch on empathy, trust, and influence; building trust banks with staff, validating students as people, and modelling professionalism for those around you. Nick’s story is a reminder that growth takes courage and that if nothing changes, then nothing changes.

Credits:

Podcast theme music composed by Julian Ferraretto

Logo Design by Meredith Baker

Photography by Carmen Roberts