Is tutoring a good fit for your child? Are you wasting money, or are you building essential skills?

On this week's episode, Rob and Chris are joined by Kate for a complete A-to-Z guide on all things tutoring. With Chris acting as the voice of the parent, the team breaks down the biggest questions, myths, and strategies parents need to know when considering external support for their child.

Here’s the truth: Tutoring is not a one-size-fits-all solution. We discuss the critical difference between routine academic help and specialised intervention for learning difficulties. Plus, we explore how to measure real success: it's about so much more than just a higher mark.

This episode is essential listening for any parent considering a tutor, anyone who currently has one, and educators looking for a clear framework on integrating external support into a student's learning journey.

In this episode, we discuss:

• When to Start: Find out why the academic jump around Year 3 often makes it the ideal time to begin tutoring.
• Fixing the Gaps: Support isn't just for struggling students. We discuss the different reasons a child needs support, from boosting confidence and engagement to filling the "Swiss cheese" skill gaps left by remote or missed learning.
• Tutor vs. Specialist: This is crucial. Learn why a regular tutor is not the answer for diagnosed learning difficulties (like dyslexia or dyspraxia). Specialist intervention must come first to address the root problem.
• The Power of Diagnosis: Why a formal diagnosis is an absolute game-changer for accessing necessary accommodations and provisions, especially for students approaching final exams (HSC/Year 12) and university.
• Accelerate Wisely: Can tutoring help high-achievers? Yes, but learn the risks of "overtraining." We discuss how to use tutoring to challenge and engage gifted students without compromising their current school curriculum.

The Real Success Story: The best measure of a tutor's impact? It's the student's improved performance and engagement in the school classroom. Ultimately, the goal is instilling hard work and effort—a lifelong skill—not just chasing a fleeting mark.

#EducationalCurrencyPodcast #EducationalCurrency #TutoringTips #ParentingAdvice #EducationPodcast #StudentSuccess #TutorTipsForParents #SpecialEducationSupport #LearningGaps #AcademicConfidence #Year3Transition #HighSchoolHSC #HSC #MeasuringSuccess

Robert Naumoski and Christopher Kalodikis have over 20 years of teaching experience. Chris teaches Computing and is the founder of Maximum Education. Rob teaches Mathematics and is the founder of The Coaching College and owner of Ultimate Defence Academy. Kate Pentecost is the producer of the Educational Currency Podcast and is a tutor at The Coaching College.

You can find us on the socials and web at

Web https://educationalcurrencypodcast.com/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560065728384

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/educationalcurrencypodcast

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0eHbg72109gSBB7mapUowX?si=bqB-w3h7T6y1fOPvRuCFlw

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@EducationalCurrencyPodcast

How can we unlock the full potential of every student? In this episode, Rob and Chris dive into the fundamental theories that form the backbone of modern teaching. They explore how understanding concepts like multiple intelligences and cognitive skill can transform your classroom and empower students to succeed in ways that go beyond traditional pen-and-paper exams.

This episode is a must-listen for both new and experienced educators, offering practical insights and a fresh perspective on the "why" behind what we do. Discover how embracing diverse learning styles and fostering creativity can not only improve academic outcomes but also help students find their purpose. We believe that a great teacher is one who understands that every student has a unique path to greatness.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences and how it acknowledges that intelligence is not just one thing.
• How applying this theory can help teachers cater to a more diverse student body with varying strengths and weaknesses.
• The contrast between a student's ability to recall information for an exam versus their ability to express what they know verbally.
• Benjamin Bloom's Taxonomy, detailing its levels from remembering to creating, which represents the highest level of cognitive ability.
• The importance of group projects and collaboration, even in subjects like mathematics, to help students develop a deeper understanding and learn real-world skills.
• Why creativity is deemed the highest level of understanding and how it can help students find their purpose.

#EducationalCurrencyPodcast #TeachingStrategies #BloomsTaxonomy #MultipleIntelligences #TeacherTips #ClassroomManagement #StudentWellbeing #EducationTips #TeacherLife #EducationalLeadership #TeachingTheories #StudentEngagement

Robert Naumoski and Christopher Kalodikis have over 20 years of teaching experience. Chris teaches Computing and is the founder of Maximum Education. Rob teaches Mathematics and is the founder of The Coaching College and owner of Ultimate Defence Academy.

You can find us on the socials and web at

• Web https://educationalcurrencypodcast.com/
• Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560065728384
• Instagram https://www.instagram.com/educationalcurrencypodcast
• Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0eHbg72109gSBB7mapUowX?si=bqB-w3h7T6y1fOPvRuCFlw
• Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@EducationalCurrencyPodcast

In this special episode, we welcome Nathan and Alishja, a couple who embarked on an incredible journey of a lifetime with their children, travelling around Australia for the past two and a half years.

In this authentic and inspiring conversation, Chris sits down with Nathan and Alishja to discuss the decision to leave city life behind and what it's truly like to raise and educate children on the road. From having a new baby while travelling to the unconventional ways of finding work and community, this episode is a testament to the power of hands-on, experience-based learning and the strength of the human spirit.

Tune in to discover: ~ How a two-week holiday inspired a two-and-a-half-year adventure across Australia. ~ The surprising way they find work on the road, from remote sonography to caretaker positions. ~ How their kids are learning about geography, science, and history through osmosis and real-life experiences. ~ What it's like to study for a Master's degree while living on the road.

#EducationalCurrencyPodcast #EducationalCurrency #TravelAustralia #FamilyTravel #Roadschooling #Homeschooling #LifeOnTheRoad #CaravanLife #Australia #TravelTips #AuthenticEducation #ExperientialLearning #Parenting #FamilyAdventure #TeacherLife

Christopher Kalodikis and Robert Naumoski have over 20 years of teaching experience. Chris teaches Computing and is the founder of Maximum Education. Rob teaches Mathematics and is the founder of The Coaching College and owner of Ultimate Defence Academy.

You can find us on the socials and web at Web https://educationalcurrencypodcast.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560065728384 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/educationalcurrencypodcast Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0eHbg72109gSBB7mapUowX?si=bqB-w3h7T6y1fOPvRuCFlw

In Season 4, Episode 5, we are honoured to be joined by Paul Humble, the Principal of St Mary and St Mina's Coptic Orthodox College in Sydney. Rob and Chris sit down with Paul to discuss his remarkable journey into education, and the invaluable lessons he has learned along the way. Paul shares how a chance encounter with a book at a bus stop led him to a career he is deeply passionate about. From his first teaching role in a difficult but rewarding Western Sydney school to his experiences in rural education, Paul's story is a testament to the power of consistent leadership and genuine relationships, and how varied a career in education can be.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone in education - teachers, parents or even students - with Paul's great insights on:

• The Unconventional Path to Leadership: Paul shares his journey from a variety of jobs to discovering his passion for teaching and how his diverse experiences shaped his approach to leadership.
• The Power of Consistency: Discover why being "the adult in the room" and maintaining a consistent, supportive presence is the key to building trust with both students and staff and your school community.
• Nurturing Your Young Teachers: Paul reveals the tell-tale signs of teacher burnout and offers advice on how school leaders can proactively support their junior staff to ensure they thrive, not just survive.
• The Best Advice for Teachers: Learn the single most important piece of advice Paul ever received from his mentor about being a teacher.
• A Parent's Guide to Choosing a School: Gain valuable insights from a principal's perspective on what parents should consider when choosing the right educational environment for their child.

#EducationalCurrencyPodcast #MeetThePrincipal #PaulHumble #StMaryAndStMinas #TeacherLeadership #TeacherBurnout #EducationTips #SchoolWellbeing #SydneyEducation #AustralianEducation #TeacherLife #ParentingInEducation

Robert Naumoski and Christopher Kalodikis have over 20 years of teaching experience. Rob teaches Mathematics and is the founder of The Coaching College and owner of Ultimate Defence Academy. Chris teaches Computing and is the founder of Maximum Education.

You can find us on the socials and web at

• Web https://educationalcurrencypodcast.com/
• Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@EducationalCurrencyPodcast
• Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560065728384
• Instagram https://www.instagram.com/educationalcurrencypodcast
• Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0eHbg72109gSBB7mapUowX?si=bqB-w3h7T6y1fOPvRuCFlw

How do we truly connect in the classroom and beyond? In this episode, Rob and Chris explore the essential art of building rapport with teachers, students, and parents. School is not just about grades or rules: it's about relationships.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in the education journey, offering practical strategies and heartfelt insights on creating a supportive and thriving community. Discover how fostering strong relationships can not only enhance well-being but also lead to profound academic and personal growth. We believe genuine connection is the ultimate currency in education, for teachers, parents, and even students alike.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The foundational role of rapport in promoting mental health and creating safe learning spaces.
• How teachers can build meaningful connections with students, colleagues, and even the broader school community.
• Practical approaches to connecting with students, from leveraging shared interests like gaming to the power of active listening and empathy.
• Understanding and navigating social media influences, positioning teachers as crucial real-world role models.
• The delicate balance between building rapport and establishing clear boundaries and consistent expectations in the classroom.
• The importance of parents actively building rapport with their child's teachers for a collaborative educational experience.

#EducationalCurrencyPodcast #TeacherRapport #SchoolWellbeing #EducationTips #StudentSupport #ParentingInEducation #ClassroomManagement #TeacherLife #StudentWellbeing #EducationalLeadership #BuildingConnections #SchoolCommunity

Robert Naumoski and Christopher Kalodikis have over 20 years of teaching experience. Chris teaches Computing and is the founder of Maximum Education. Rob teaches Mathematics and is the founder of The Coaching College and owner of Ultimate Defence Academy.

In this episode of the Educational Currency Podcast, hosts Chris and Rob sit down with Clinical Nutritionist Marko Papuckovski to discuss the foundational role nutrition plays in health and academic success.

This conversation offers vital information for parents, teachers, and students alike, exploring why proactive nutritional choices are crucial for both short term energy and long-term wellbeing. Marko shares insights into his own journey in nutrition, highlighting the importance of passion and perseverance, even when faced with academic challenges.

The episode explores the impact of everyday eating habits, particularly the consumption of sugar, and provides guidance on how small decisions today can significantly impact health in the future. Marko stresses the need for essential nutrients like protein and healthy fats, and the compounding effect of diet on focus and performance. Parents and teachers will gain perspective on how their own choices influence students and the broader school community.

What You Will Learn:

• Prevention vs Reaction: Health should be viewed as a proactive measure rather than a reactive approach to illness.
• The Compounding Effect of Choices: Small daily dietary decisions have a significant compounding effect on long-term health outcomes.
• Dangers of Excess Sugar: Understand why excessive sugar intake is a serious health concern contributing to inflammation and insulin resistance.
• The Importance of Essential Nutrients: Why adequate intake of protein and essential fats is critical for overall health and cognitive function.
• Prioritising Health: How to plan meals and prioritise nutrition despite busy schedules.

#EducationalCurrencyPodcast #NutritionBasics #HealthyEating #StudentHealth #ParentingTips #MarkoPapuckovski #ClinicalNutritionist #AustralianPodcast

Robert Naumoski and Christopher Kalodikis have over 20 years of teaching experience. Chris teaches Computing and is the founder of Maximum Education. Rob teaches Mathematics and is the founder of The Coaching College and owner of Ultimate Defence Academy.

You can find us on the socials and web at

• Web https://educationalcurrencypodcast.com/
• Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560065728384
• Instagram https://www.instagram.com/educationalcurrencypodcast
• Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0eHbg72109gSBB7mapUowX?si=bqB-w3h7T6y1fOPvRuCFlw
• Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@EducationalCurrencyPodcast

Starting Kindergarten is a huge milestone for families! In this emotional and insightful episode of The Educational Currency Podcast, join Rob and Chris, both parents with children heading into 'Big School' shortly, as they share their personal journeys and practical advice.

Whether you are a first-time parent navigating the Kindy countdown or an experienced one preparing another (or final) child, this episode is packed with value. We discuss:

• When to Start: Understanding your child's readiness – mentally, physically, and emotionally – and the crucial role of preschool in bridging the gap to big school.
• Choosing the Right School: What to look for beyond academics, considering school culture, facilities, and ensuring it's the perfect fit for your child.
• Practical Preparations: From mastering lining up to packing the ever-evolving lunchbox (hello, bento boxes!), get tips to prepare your child for school routines.
• Navigating Logistics: Essential advice for working parents on managing school drop-offs and pick-ups, including exploring after-school care and 'kiss and ride' options.
• Building School Connections: Learn the importance of getting to know your school's staff, from teachers and assistant principals to the invaluable office ladies who truly run the show!

We also share some classic (and hilarious!) stories from our own past, as well as acknowledge the incredible dedication of Kindergarten teachers, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.

This episode offers insights for parents preparing their little ones and teachers looking to understand the parent's perspective. Join us for a candid discussion on making the Kindergarten journey a positive one for everyone involved!

#Kindergarten #Kindy #StartingSchool #FirstDayOfSchool #SchoolReadiness #ParentingTips #BackToSchool #EarlyLearning #EducationalCurrencyPodcast #ParentsOfKindergarten #TeacherLife #SchoolTips

Robert Naumoski and Christopher Kalodikis have over 20 years of teaching experience. Chris teaches Computing and is the founder of Maximum Education. Rob teaches Mathematics and is the founder of The Coaching College and owner of Ultimate Defence Academy.

You can find us on the socials and web at

• Web https://educationalcurrencypodcast.com/
• Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560065728384
• Instagram https://www.instagram.com/educationalcurrencypodcast
• Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0eHbg72109gSBB7mapUowX?si=bqB-w3h7T6y1fOPvRuCFlw

A Teacher's Guide to Health | Season 4 Episode 1

Welcome back to the Educational Currency Podcast for Season 4! In this exciting new season, we're delving deeply into the theme of health, examining various aspects that affect both educators and students.

In this episode, hosts Rob and Chris kick off the season by discussing:

~ Mental Health as a Foundation: We explore mindfulness practices, even for young students, to clear headspace and create serene environments. Chris shares insights from mental health first aid training, including the "ALGEE" acronym (Approach, Listen, Give advice, Encourage professional supports, Encourage other supports) for effective peer support and referral.

~ The Power of Social Connection: Discover how simple interactions, like those around a coffee machine or a shared table in the staff room, can significantly reduce stress and foster a sense of belonging, preventing isolation among colleagues.

~ Unleashing Creativity for Well-being: We delve into the often-unrecognised role of creativity in mental health and teaching. From crafting engaging lessons to personal outlets, creativity is highlighted as a vital component that keeps educators fresh and connected to their personality.

~ Prioritising Physical Health: The discussion shifts to the critical link between physical and mental health. Rob emphasises the profound benefits of staying active, even through simple routines like daily purposeful walks, and shares personal success stories, including improved physical performance linked to better sleep. We also discuss the dangers of a sedentary lifestyle and the misleading realities often presented by social media influencers.

Join us as we explore how these crucial elements contribute to overall well-being in and out of the classroom!

#EducationalCurrencyPodcast #Season4 #Health #MentalHealth #PhysicalHealth #Wellbeing #Mindfulness #EducatorWellness #StudentSupport #SocialConnection #CreativityInTeaching #HealthyLifestyle #PodcastForEducators #TeacherLife #SchoolWellbeing #MentalHealthFirstAid #Podcast

Robert Naumoski and Christopher Kalodikis have over 20 years of teaching experience. Chris teaches Computing and is the founder of Maximum Education. Rob teaches Mathematics and is the founder of The Coaching College and owner of Ultimate Defence Academy.

You can find us on the socials and web at

• Web https://educationalcurrencypodcast.com/
• Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560065728384
• Instagram https://www.instagram.com/educationalcurrencypodcast
• Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0eHbg72109gSBB7mapUowX?si=bqB-w3h7T6y1fOPvRuCFlw