Episode 34: Kelly McBurnie - Balancing Ballet, Wellbeing and Operational Excellence - Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

Episode 37: Dr. Gina Biancarosa - Measuring Reading Growth with DIBELS - Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

In this episode of Around the School Table [https://xuno.com.au/podcasts/], produced by Xuno [https://xuno.com.au/podcasts/], host Steve Davis is joined by Dr. Gina Biancarosa, Ann Swindells Chair in Education, Professor in the Department of Special Education and Clinical Sciences, and Director of the Center on Teaching and Learning at the University of Oregon [https://www.uoregon.edu/] (uoregon.edu), to explore the origins, purpose, and growing impact of DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) in schools across Australia and beyond. Throughout the conversation, Gina explains how DIBELS was developed to help educators identify students who may need additional support with reading. Rather than relying solely on lengthy assessments, DIBELS uses brief, targeted measures that provide valuable insights into a student's literacy development. As a result, teachers can monitor progress more frequently and make informed instructional decisions. The discussion explores the science behind key DIBELS assessments, including letter naming fluency, phonemic awareness, nonsense word fluency, oral reading fluency, and comprehension measures. Furthermore, Gina explains how each assessment aligns with the research on how children learn to read and develop reading comprehension over time. Steve and Gina also examine the importance of reading for meaning. While decoding words is essential, comprehension remains the ultimate goal. Consequently, the episode highlights why effective literacy instruction must support both accurate word recognition and deep understanding of text. In addition, listeners will learn how Australian educators have embraced DIBELS through professional learning communities, including the highly active DIBELS in Oz network. Gina reflects on the collaborative efforts that led to the development of an Australasian version of DIBELS, ensuring greater relevance for Australian and New Zealand students. The conversation also explores how literacy data can be used responsibly within broader school improvement strategies. While assessment data can guide intervention and goal-setting, Gina emphasises the importance of using DIBELS for its intended purpose rather than as a blunt accountability tool. The discussion also touches on how DIBELS data can be analysed and interpreted within broader school improvement processes using tools such as Student Maps. Beyond assessment, Gina shares her personal reflections on reading as a lifelong gift. From childhood favourites to supporting readers with vision impairment, she highlights the profound opportunities that literacy creates throughout life. This episode offers valuable insights for teachers, school leaders, literacy specialists, and education professionals seeking practical ways to support reading growth while maintaining a strong focus on student understanding and success. Powered by: xuno.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Episode 36: David Loader OAM - Rethinking Student Engagement in Australian Schools - Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

In this episode of Around the School Table [https://xuno.com.au/podcasts/] (xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis is joined by David Loader OAM, Chair of the Institute of Education Reform (IER) [https://educationalreform.org.au/] (educationalreform.org.au), to explore one of the most urgent challenges facing Australian education: Student Disengagement. With research suggesting that between 30% and 50% of students are disengaged at school, David argues that attendance alone does not equal learning. Many students are physically present in classrooms, yet emotionally disconnected from their education. Others are refusing school altogether. As a result, he believes the current system must rethink how success is measured. Drawing on his decades of experience as former principal of Methodist Ladies’ College and Wesley College, David reflects on introducing one-to-one laptops in schools in 1989 — long before digital learning became mainstream. However, he explains that technology alone was never the solution. Instead, the real goal was creating more agency, creativity and independence for students. Throughout the conversation, David challenges traditional models of teaching that position students as passive learners. Instead, he advocates for schools that encourage curiosity, exploration and student voice. He also examines the growing gap between what students are taught and what they genuinely want to learn, particularly during the critical middle years of schooling. Furthermore, he discusses why teachers need greater freedom, why rigid curriculum structures may be limiting innovation, and how education systems must better respond to individual student needs. The episode also explores the role of educational technology, alternative schooling models, residential learning programs, and why future-ready schools must become more flexible and personalised. This thought-provoking conversation challenges long-held assumptions about education and offers a compelling vision for schools that prioritise engagement, agency and meaningful learning for every student. Powered by: xuno.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Episode 35: Kerry Williams - Closing the Literacy Gap - Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

In this episode of Around the School Table [https://xuno.com.au/podcasts/] (xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis is joined by Kerry Williams Director Teaching and Learning at SPELD SA Inc [https://speldsa.org.au/](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 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, linked to Student Maps [https://xuno.com.au/student-maps/] (xuno.com.au/student-maps), 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. Kerryalso 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. Powered by: xuno.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Episode 34: Kelly McBurnie - Balancing Ballet, Wellbeing and Operational Excellence - Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

In this episode of Around the School Table  [https://xuno.com.au/podcasts/](xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis is joined by Kelly McBurnie, Director of Business Operation at Academy of Queensland Ballet [https://academy.queenslandballet.com.au/] (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 [https://xuno.com.au/] (xuno.com.au) and Student Maps [https://xuno.com.au/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. Powered by xuno.com.au. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Episode 33: Hans Moningka – Digital Assessment, Integrity and AI – Around the School Table by Xuno Suite

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. Powered by: xuno.com.au. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.