Glen Education Professional Development

By Margaret Durston – Glen Education Caulfield Primary Kindergarten

After receiving an email from Semann and Slattery about their upcoming conference, I felt compelled to attend. Encouraged by Mel MacMaster and supported by Glen Education, I registered immediately and booked my flights to Sydney.

Day 1 – March 21, 2025

Opening Keynote – Jane Vadiveloo

CEO of Children’s Ground, Jane has worked for over 30 years alongside First Nations communities in the NT. Her address was powerful, focusing on justice-based, culturally rooted approaches to systemic change in education and wellbeing. An inspiring start to the conference.

Workshop 1 – Heather Barnes & Louise Dorrat

Engaging with Assessment and Rating: Resisting, Advocating, and Challenging

Both presenters shared valuable insights into the National Quality Framework. Their professionalism and advocacy for quality improvement confirmed how well our Glen CPK team aligns with these practices.

Workshop 2 – David Gilkes

Pedagogy: The Ultimate Superpower

David emphasized the importance of intentional teaching and reflective pedagogy. I particularly appreciated his message about educators thoughtfully shaping children’s learning. I had the chance to speak with him personally during the conference.

Keynote – Dr Ben Mardell (USA)

Playing with Spiders: The Uprising Must Include More than People 

Ben’s address focused on the power of play, creativity, and imagination. His work, including research at Harvard Project Zero and MIT Media Lab, highlights the importance of nurturing curiosity and joy in learning.

Day 2 – March 22, 2025

Keynote – Dr Angela Molloy Murphy (USA) What World is Knocking?

Angela’s thought-provoking presentation encouraged educators to respond to global challenges with care and courageous resistance. Her commitment to ecological and social justice was deeply moving.

Virtual Reality Session – Children’s Ground, NT

This immersive experience transported us to Alice Springs to see firsthand the culturally rich, community-led early education approach at Children’s Ground. Truly moving and unforgettable.

Workshop – Rachel Flottman

Neuro-Affirming Education for All: A Call to Action

Rachel spoke about ethical, inclusive approaches to early childhood education. Her deep respect for children’s rights and agency, and her experience shaping national frameworks, made this session especially relevant and empowering.

Closing Keynote – Kelly Goodsir

Kelly shared a personal, emotional reflection on her professional and personal journey. Her insights into pedagogical leadership and educational change were heartfelt and inspiring.

The conference was thought-provoking, professionally affirming, and personally uplifting. It was a joy to reconnect with colleagues and engage in meaningful dialogue about the future of early childhood education.

Until next time, Margaret Durston