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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.

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What if you could revolutionize education while staying true to your core values? Join us as we chat with Cara Fugill, the inspirational Principal of Scotch Global, who has transformed from a young mathematics teacher into a pioneering leader in educational innovation. Cara's journey is a testament to the power of embracing leadership early and taking calculated risks to challenge traditional norms. Her experiences across various educational systems, including a pivotal period in London, have shaped her unique approach to leadership, one that is deeply rooted in innovation and equity.

Discover the dynamics of effective leadership and collaboration through Cara's experiences with colleagues like Dr. Alec O'Connell. We explore how fostering trust, autonomy, and innovation can create a powerful team dynamic that transcends the sum of its parts. Cara shares insights on balancing busy schedules with thoughtful listening, seeing mistakes as valuable learning opportunities, and maintaining a vision that prioritizes growth and adaptation. Learn how embracing diverse perspectives and allowing a team to thrive independently can lead to significant progress in educational settings.

The future of education is reimagined as we discuss the need for schools to adapt to changing societal and technological landscapes. Cara introduces Scotch Global, an innovative offshoot that challenges traditional constraints, focusing on creativity, critical thinking, and high-quality student outcomes. Explore the excitement and challenges of creating a fresh educational paradigm, the importance of engaging parents and the community, and the role of collaboration in transforming education. Join us for this thought-provoking conversation that invites you to rethink educational approaches for the benefit of future generations.

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