The Art of Teaching

Dr Phil Cummins: The Character Education Series, the Game Changers podcast and finding joy.

Dr Phil Cummins is a global leader in education, character, and leadership. With over 30 years of experience, he leads a School for tomorrow. and CIRCLE Education, guiding schools to deliver purposeful learning. He’s Associate Professor at Alphacrucis University College, co-host of the Game Changers podcast, and author of 30+ books. His four-book series—based on global research and conversations—guides students on a journey from purpose to impact. Drawing on work from CIRCLE, a School for tomorrow., and Game Changers, the series offers practical insights for personal growth and meaningful contribution. Phil’s work is recognised through multiple prestigious fellowships.

Tom Sherrington: Rosenshine's Principles in Action, WALKTHRUS and evidence informed instruction.

Tom is a highly respected educational consultant, author, and former headteacher with more than 30 years of experience in schools. Renowned for championing evidence-informed teaching, he has written several influential books, including The Learning Rainforest, Rosenshine’s Principles in Action, and Teaching WalkThrus (co-authored with Oliver Caviglioli). Through his blog, teacherhead.com, and international workshops, Tom empowers teachers and school leaders to implement research-based strategies that enhance classroom practice and support professional growth.

https://walkthrus.co.uk/

 

Matt Pitman takes over the mic as The Art of Teaching Podcast turns 200 🎉

Today, it is a pleasure to release the 200th episode of The Art of Teaching. To mark this milestone, we’re doing something a little different. The incredible Matt Pitman takes over the mic to interview me. We reflect on the biggest lessons I’ve learned from two hundred conversations with educators, leaders, and changemakers from around the world.

Whether you've been here since Episode 1 or you're tuning in for the first time, thank you for being part of this journey.

Let’s dive into Episode 200 of The Art of Teaching Podcast. 

Summer Howarth: The Eventful Learning Co and how to design and deliver great learning.

Summer Howarth is an education strategist, learning designer, and founder of The Eventful Learning Co. She works with schools, organisations, and governments to create powerful learning experiences. Her career includes teaching in NSW and the USA, lecturing at Sydney University, and leading innovation at AITSL. Summer has worked with partners like Zoos Victoria, The Prince’s Trust Australia, and Google for Education. She supports student voice projects across Australia, advises education start-ups, and is on Beyond Blue’s National Education Committee. A multi-time Educator Hotlist honouree and entrepreneur finalist, Summer is passionate about shaping the future of learning with purpose and heart.

John Cleary: Beyond Voice: Students as Transformative Partners in Education

Up next is a conversation that I recently had with John Cleary. John has recently stepped away from leading School and System Improvement at the Northern Territory Department of Education. Before this, he was the Principal of a primary school in Katherine. He also created the NT Learning Commission, which promotes student-led research and uses the Impact Evaluation Cycle. In 2018, John was named one of 12 National Schools Plus Teaching Fellows and has received national recognition for his work as a principal. He is currently working towards a doctorate at the University of Melbourne.

This conversation took place during a beautiful wet season storm in Larrakia Country, so very occasionally John’s connection drops out, but he comes right back. 

Here is a resource that is referenced in our conversation: 

https://www.cse.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/CSE-Leading-Education-Series24-June2024-secure.pdf

Steven Trotter: The Art of Skimming Stones and how to drive meaningful change.

Steven Trotter, an experienced education leader, has spent over a decade as a principal, system leader, and senior leader. His book, The Art of Skimming Stones, introduces the SKIM Model—a practical approach to sustained school improvement. Unlike traditional leadership frameworks, SKIM focuses on intentional, subtle shifts that drive meaningful change. With a passion for professional learning, He equips educators and leaders with actionable strategies for lasting impact.

 

Alison Bonhomme: The power of flourishing workplaces.

Welcome to today's episode! I’m excited to have Alison Bonhomme with me. Alison is an inspiring leader with a Master's in Applied Positive Psychology, known for her dedication to community, personal growth, and making a positive impact. Alison is also the director of The Flourishing Workplace - I have placed a link to her website below. 

In this conversation, we'll explore her journey, her work and how her background in positive psychology influences her approach to leadership and well-being. I hope that you enjoy this insightful conversation with Alison Bonhomme.

Aziza Green: The realities of being married to a teacher, managing stress and parenting school aged kids.

Today, I’m especially excited to welcome our guest, Aziza Green—who also happens to be my wife. Aziza is a writer and digital marketing professional in publishing and the social impact sector. She’s also a PhD research candidate studying digital literacy, bringing a unique perspective on how communities navigate the digital world. She covers the ever-evolving relationship between technology and society. We unpacked many things including what it’s like to live with a teacher, how to support each other during stressful times and life as two working parents.

Scott O'Hara: Thinking differently, doing differently and building a strong school culture.

Today I’m joined by Scott O'Hara, a foundational principal with a unique background. Before entering education, Scott worked as a chef in Australia and the UK.

As a foundational principal, Scott is passionate about creating positive school cultures where students and staff are excited to attend school daily. He focuses on innovative, student-centred learning that engages and inspires.

Outside of work, Scott is a father, and grandfather, and enjoys photography, drones, and motorsport.

Dr William DeJean: How Schools Can Advance Teaching and Learning in the Era of Overwhelm.

Up next is a conversation with Dr William DeJean the founder of Unleash Learning™, a global organisation dedicated to helping educators and leaders ensure learning sticks. With over 25 years of experience, he has worked with thousands of teachers, schools, and organisations to embed lasting learning practices.

A former high school teacher in San Diego, Dr DeJean was recognised as Teacher of the Year among 26,000 educators. He holds a master’s and doctorate in education and has lectured at universities in the U.S. and Australia. His work combines research-driven strategies with real-world applications to create transformational learning experiences.

He travels internationally, supporting schools and organisations to implement the Unleash Learning™ system, ensuring that all learners' learning is engaging, inclusive, and retained.