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What does it take to build a truly inclusive educational environment? In this episode, Associate Principal Brooke McFarlane shares her inspiring journey from drama and English teacher to passionate advocate for vulnerable students. Drawing from her experiences in challenging school settings, Brooke highlights the power of community cohesion in supporting special needs students within mainstream education.

She candidly reflects on her leadership evolution, shaped by programs like Jenny's Rising Leaders program and Dare to Lead, as well as the importance of psychological safety and compassionate guidance. Brooke discusses confronting her own blind spots, embracing discomfort, and overcoming common pitfalls like overperforming and ego-driven leadership.

With thoughtful insights on authenticity, trust, and setting boundaries, she likens effective leaders to "marigolds"—nurturing growth and enthusiasm in their teams. Tune in to discover how Brooke’s leadership philosophy can inspire educators and students alike to reach their full potential.

Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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Join us as we chat with Robyn Hutchins, a primary school principal on the Gold Coast with an unconventional path into education. From high school teaching to leading in primary, Robyn’s story is all about adaptability, growth, and the power of great mentors and colleagues.

We dive into her leadership style—grounded in steadiness and support—and how it shapes her approach to guiding teams and driving change. Robyn shares why having a strong support network (think of it like your own "personal board of directors") is key to staying balanced and avoiding burnout, especially for women in leadership roles.

You’ll hear real talk on setting work-life boundaries, handling the loneliness that can come with leadership, and practical strategies to keep leaders resilient. Plus, Robyn opens up about the highs and lows of her journey—empowering teachers, building a strong school culture, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

If you're an aspiring leader looking for honest insights, this episode is packed with wisdom, relatable stories, and tips to help you lead with clarity, balance, and purpose.

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Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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This week on Positively Leading, I chat with Melanie Moore, a level three program coordinator at a public secondary school. Mel shares her experiences leading professional learning communities, balancing academic growth with well-being, and the complexities of middle leadership.

With a career spanning over 30 years in both the UK and Australia, Mel has navigated roles in student services, instructional coaching, and curriculum leadership.

From implementing multi-tiered support systems to nurturing professional growth among her team, Mel offers valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of being a "middle leader."

We explore:

• The differences between UK and Australian educational systems, from curriculum demands to leadership pathways.
• The importance of relationships and rapport in student behaviour management and instructional success.
• How Mel integrates strategic planning with the reactive nature of her role, including her approach to creating policies and systems that work.
• The challenge of moving from middle to senior leadership roles and the barriers that can hinder progression.
• Practical advice for aspiring leaders, including the value of empathy, networking, and self-awareness in leadership.

Mel’s warmth and wisdom shine through as she reflects on her passion for mentoring others, balancing people and processes, and prioritising wellbeing in a demanding role.

This episode is a must listen for middle leaders and aspiring school leaders, offering actionable advice and a reminder that leadership is about relationships, resilience, and continuous growth.

Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.