In this episode of Around the School Table (xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis is joined by Kerry Williams Director Teaching and Learning at SPELD SA Inc (speldsa.org.au), to unpack one of Australia’s most pressing education challenges. Together, they explore how literacy instruction has evolved and why evidence-based practice is now gaining traction across schools.

Kerry Williams Director Teaching and Learning of SPELD SA Inc shares her journey from classroom teacher to literacy leader. As a result, she brings a unique perspective shaped by years of supporting educators and students with learning difficulties. Moreover, she explains how organisations like SPELD SA bridge the gap between research and classroom practice.

The conversation highlights the shift away from outdated “wait to fail” models. Instead, Kerry explains how tools like DIBELS enable early identification of struggling readers. Consequently, teachers can intervene sooner with targeted, effective strategies. She also outlines the five key components of reading, showing how each plays a vital role in building confident, capable learners.

In addition, the episode explores the rise of structured literacy and synthetic phonics in Australian classrooms. While progress is evident, Kerry notes that misconceptions still persist. For example, outdated practices and myths about dyslexia continue to influence teaching approaches. Therefore, ongoing professional learning remains essential.

Kerry Williams Director Teaching and Learning of SPELD SA Inc also addresses the importance of early intervention. She emphasises that support should focus on student need rather than diagnosis. As she explains, increased practice and targeted instruction often deliver the strongest outcomes. Furthermore, she highlights the equity challenges families face when accessing assessments and support.

The discussion also reinforces the importance of balancing foundational skills with a love of reading. Once decoding is mastered, students can fully engage with rich literature and expand their vocabulary. As a result, both skill and curiosity are nurtured together.

This episode offers practical insights for educators committed to improving literacy outcomes. Ultimately, it reinforces that when evidence meets action, every student has a stronger chance to succeed.

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In this episode of Around the School Table (xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis is joined by Kelly McBurnie, Director of Business Operation at Academy of Queensland Ballet (academy.queenslandballet.com.au), to explore how elite arts education can balance performance, wellbeing and operational precision.

Drawing on her background in mainstream and Steiner education, Kelly shares how those leadership lessons now guide a world-class ballet programme. At the Academy of Queensland Ballet students undertake half-day academics alongside intensive dance training. As a result, excellence is pursued without sacrificing holistic development.

Throughout the conversation, Kelly explains how research has reshaped ballet training. Rather than relying on chronological age, physical readiness is carefully assessed before students begin pointe work. Consequently, injury risk is reduced and long-term development is prioritised. Moreover, wellbeing is embedded through daily touchpoints with experienced staff, physiotherapists and strength coaches.

Importantly, operational systems have also evolved. Previously, complex panel assessments were paper-based and manually averaged. However, digital platforms such as Xuno (xuno.com.au) and Student Maps (xuno.com.au/student-maps) now allow live moderation across four judges and 25 criteria. Therefore, reporting is streamlined and transparency is strengthened. Parents can track progress over time through clear data and visual insights.

Communication has improved significantly as well. With real-time calendar updates and a parent portal, families receive timely information about rehearsals and performances. In addition, a digital kiosk sign-in system provides accurate visibility across six studios and multiple training spaces. Consequently, safety, accountability and engagement are enhanced.

Beyond systems and structure, the episode highlights the human side of high performance. Students develop resilience, grit and collaboration through daily discipline. Furthermore, many graduates move into professional companies, including Queensland Ballet, while others pursue global opportunities in the arts.

This episode offers practical insights for school leaders seeking to integrate wellbeing, data and operational excellence. Ultimately, it demonstrates that high performance and care can coexist when vision is matched with thoughtful systems.

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In this episode of Around the School Table (xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis is joined by Hans Moningka, Director, APAC from RM PLC Group (rm.com) to explore the evolving landscape of digital assessment. He brings a global perspective shaped by partnerships with major assessment authorities and education systems.

Throughout the conversation, Hans unpacks how digital exams are steadily replacing paper-based models. Rather than describing a sudden revolution, he outlines a careful and strategic shift. Moreover, he explains why accessibility is driving student preference for online assessment. Research across several countries shows most students favour digital formats, especially after direct experience.

Importantly, Hans addresses the balance between innovation and integrity. While digital platforms offer flexibility, assessment authenticity must remain central. Therefore, the discussion explores tools such as secure exam browsers, focus tracking, and AI-supported proctoring. These technologies strengthen oversight, yet they also raise ethical considerations.

In addition, the episode examines the growing influence of artificial intelligence in schools. AI-generated content is becoming more common. Consequently, educators must rethink how originality and authorship are assessed. Hans shares practical insights into responsible AI use, emphasising preparation over panic.

For teachers and school leaders, the conversation highlights two key gaps: availability and preparation. Infrastructure, device access, and professional learning all shape readiness. Furthermore, mindset plays a critical role. Small, deliberate steps towards digital integration can build long-term confidence.

Ultimately, this episode offers cautious optimism. Assessment will continue to evolve, yet humane and credible practice can remain at its core. For educators navigating change, the insights from Hans provide clarity, reassurance, and strategic direction.

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