Exploring Innovative Research Partnerships between Schools & Universities
Friday 22 August 2025 - 1.00pm to 5.00pm
&
Saturday 23 August 2025 - 9.00am to 5.00pm
University of Technology Sydney
We look forward to an open dialogue amongst the educators sector’s, researchers and industry professionals to drive collaboration and explore best practices in School-University partnerships.
Examine innovative approaches to School and University research in a digital society and analyse findings and outcomes from research, to inform best practice.
Price
$150 pp Members of the Teaching Profession
$160 pp Non-Members of the Teaching Profession
$50 pp Higher Degree Research Students
Parking Information- Click here
Click on the presenters name to read their bio
Dr Ari Pinar - Education Consultant
2025 Guild Research Conference Program Day 1
Friday 22 August 2025
1:15pm | Welcome & Introductions: Dr Frederick Osman, President, Teachers' Guild of NSW
Guild Awards Presentation Session
1:30PM - 1:45PM | Michelle Cheung, University of Sydney
1:50PM - 2:05PM | Alexandra Harper, Western Sydney University
2:10PM - 2:25PM | Bronwyn Lobsey, Pacific Hills Christian School
2:30PM - 2:45PM | Ros Moore, University of Technology
2:50PM - 3:05PM | Nadine O'Neill, Trinity Grammar Preparatory School
3:10PM - 3:25PM | Karen Yager, The Hills Grammar School
3:30PM - 3:45PM | Amy Young, The Hills Grammar School
NETWORKING AFTERNOON TEA
Workshop & Keynote Sessions
4:25PM - 4:30PM | Welcome & Introductions: Dr Frederick Osman & Dr Keith Heggart
4:35PM - 5:20PM | Adobe Creative Workshop: Dr Tim Kitchen, Senior Education Specialist (APAC).
5:25PM - 6:15PM | Associate Professor Penny Van Bergen: SFHEA, Macquarie University
2025 Guild Research Conference Program Day 2
Saturday 23 August 2025
7:45AM - 8:45AM | Registrations: Tea and Coffee
8:55AM | Welcome & Introductions
Session 1 - Keynote & Plenary Sessions
9:00AM - 9:25AM | Brett Salakas: HP Education Ambassador
9:30AM - 9:55AM | Professor Michele Simons: University of Western Sydney
10:00AM - 10:25AM | Dr Nicole Archard: Loreto Kirribilli
10:30AM - 10:55AM | Laureate Professor Jenny Gore: University of Newcastle
NETWORKING MORNING TEA
Session 2 - Workshops & Oral Presentations
11:40AM - 12:25PM | Workshop 1: Dr Lynn Sheridan, University of Wollongong
11:40AM - 12:25PM | Workshop 2: Dr Bronwen Wade-Leeuwen, Macquarie University and Auriel Farcash, University of Aukland New Zealand
11:40AM - 12:25PM | Workshop 3: Dr Ari Pinar, Epoch Consultancy
11:40AM - 12.25PM | Workshop 4: Karen Yager and Dr Christine Furner, The Hills Grammar School
12:30PM- 1:00PM | Debbie Lowe: Growth Coaching International
12:30PM- 1:00PM | Amira Ghebranious: Independent Catholic
12:30PM- 1:00PM | Dr Damian Maher and Dr Keith Heggart: University of Technology Sydney & Dr Kimberley Pressick-Kilborn, Rachel Hughes: Trinity Grammar School
12:30PM- 1:00PM | Douglas Broadbent, Shore School & Dr Tanya Kwee: University of New South Wales
NETWORKING LUNCH
Session 3 - Workshops & Oral Presentations
2:00PM - 2:45PM | Workshop 5: Kate Corcoran, Santa Sabina College
2:00PM - 2:45PM | Workshop 6: Dr Kim Wilson, Dr Janet Dutton, Macquarie University, Kate Anderson Monte Sant’ Angelo Mercy College
2:00PM - 2:45PM | Workshop 7: Dr Merinda Kelly and Dr Fiona Phillips, Deakin University
2:00PM - 2:45PM | Workshop 8: Associate Professor Anne-Louise Semple and Dr Kathryn McLachlan, Macquarie University
2:50PM - 3:20PM | Dr Mahendra Samarawickrama: Boston University Sydney
2:50PM - 3:20PM | Rebecca Birch: Queenwood
2:50PM - 3:20PM | Dr Suzana Sukovic, Lisa Tabuteau & Dr Bhuva Narayan: PLC Sydney & UTS
2:50PM - 3:20PM | Dr Kirsten Macaulay: St Andrew’s Cathedral School
2:50PM - 3:20PM | Dr Parisa Ziaesaeidi: Western Sydney University
Session 3 - Oral Presentations Continue
3:25PM - 3:55PM | Dr Kimberley Pressick-Kilborn: Trinity Grammar School, Dr Britta Jensen: Newington College, Associate Professor Simon Knight: UTS, Dr Suzana Sukovic: PLC Sydney & Dr Sarah Loch: Presbyterian Ladies’ College Sydney
3:25PM - 3:55PM | Jason Stanley: University of Technology Sydney
3:25PM - 3:55PM | Ehab Gerges: James Cook Boys’ Technology High School
3:25PM - 3:55PM | Dr Jonathon Mascorella & Dr Annie Agnew: Loreto Kirribilli & University of Technology Sydney
3:25PM - 3:55PM | Dr Kathryn McLachlan: Macquarie University
Session 4 - Closing Plenary Session
4:00PM - 4:30PM | Associate Professor Tony Loughland: University of New South Wales
NETWORKING AFTERNOON TEA & CLOSE
OFFICIAL EVENT PARTNERS
Amira Ghebranious - Amira Ghebranious is a passionate educator with over 20 years’ experience as an English teacher. She has held several middle management roles during this time, yet she is most invigorated by the dynamics of the classroom environment. Her interest in education includes innovative pedagogies to enhance student engagement, differentiation for inclusive learning and considering broader challenges to student learning. Like many educators, she is deeply concerned about the rate of teacher attrition and has enjoyed mentoring new scheme teachers to help develop their sense of teacher efficacy. Amira is also interested to investigate possible connections between the deficit in literacy and rise in student wellbeing issues that are experienced in many schools across NSW. Her current study as a Master of Education - Research candidate through UNSW is driven by her interest in seeking to understand the interaction of teacher and student wellbeing and how this ultimately impacts effective teaching and learning. Back to top
Dr Annie Agnew - Dr Annie Agnew has an extensive career in education, spanning K–12 and higher education, and now specialises in initial teacher education and postgraduate learning. Her research focuses on the intersection of technology, pedagogy, and learning design, with particular emphasis on digital agency, transdisciplinary learning, and the evolving digital ecology in education. She investigates how technological advancements shape teaching and learning, enabling new modes of connection and deeper engagement. Her work also considers the implications of digital agency for educators and students, addressing how technology fosters autonomy, critical engagement, and innovative pedagogical practices. Back to top
Dr Ari Pinar - Dr Ari Pinar is an awarding-winning education consultant and academic with close to 15 years of experience in the education sector. An education leader and academic within the Biomedicine and Medicine courses at Monash University, Ari has received numerous teaching excellence awards for designing and delivering innovative, high-impact teaching practices to large cohorts of students. An AFR Higher Education Award finalist and Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, Ari has a proven track record of fostering student engagement and wellbeing through innovative curriculum design and blended learning strategies. With a strong background in educational research and as a widely published author, Ari specialises in equipping leaders with practical strategies to strengthen instruction and improve student outcomes. Ari now collaborates closely with educational leaders, principals, and directors, empowering them with evidence-based strategies to drive meaningful, transformative change. Back to top
Aurel Farcash - Aurel Farcash is a technology strategist, entrepreneur, and industry advisor with over 20 years of experience across digital infrastructure, enterprise architecture, software development, consulting, and investment. He has led innovation and transformation projects in sectors including health, government, insurance, fintech, media, telco, and education, driven by a passion for integrating creativity, systems thinking, emerging technologies and AI into real-world outcomes.
Aurel is actively engaged in interdisciplinary research exploring the ethics and philosophy of AI, with a focus on the disembodiment of cognition and the risks of cognitive uniformity in algorithmic systems. He collaborates closely with Dr. Bronwen Wade-Leeuwen (Education & Creativity) from Macquarie University to investigate how ethical AI governance and educational innovation can bridge critical gaps between academic theory and enterprise application. His work seeks to translate philosophical insights into scalable models that support inclusive, adaptive, and ethically aligned AI adoption across industries. Back to top
Dr Bhuva Narayan - Dr Bhuva Narayan is Associate Professor of Communication, and Director of Graduate Research at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). Her research interests include Human Learning, Health Information Behaviours, Information Avoidance, Digital Literacies, Personal Information Management, Scholarly Communication and Open Access. She is associate editor of the Journal of the Australian Library and Information Association (JALIA). Back to top
Brett Salakas - Brett Salakas, the HP Education Ambassador, is an international keynote speaker, the best selling author of ‘A MAMMOTH Lesson’, the founder of #aussieED (formerly the largest online network of teachers in Australia) and the co-founder of the ED Poets Society. He was identified by Linkedin as a TOP VOICE (top 1% worldwide) in K-12 Education. Brett was awarded with the NSWICTE and ISTE ‘Making ‘IT’ Happen award in 2024, was recently identified by the District Administration Leadership Institute as one of the top 100 most influential leaders in education globally (the only Australian named on the list) and was named the Most Influential Educator in Australia for 2024 by The Educator magazine. Brett is a teacher and experienced school leader who, over the past 26 years, has taught in South East Asia and Australia. He is passionately committed to turning educational theory into real classroom practice. Brett is all about CONNECTION, COLLABORATION and INSPIRATION. Back to top
Dr Britta Jensen - Dr Britta Jensen is the Director of the Centre for Critical Thinking and Ethics at Newington College and President of the Philosophy in Schools Association of NSW. A passionate and leading educator, she is dedicated to supporting teachers in building expertise in using critical thinking pedagogy across all learning areas and developing high quality learning experiences for students. She has decades of experience teaching philosophy and languages to primary, secondary, and tertiary learners, developing curricula, and building staff capacity through mentorship and professional learning. Her doctorate is from the University of Oxford, and her post-doctoral research in the UK and Australia focused on cross-linguistic theoretical and empirical aspects of language acquisition and knowledge of language. Currently she teaches as part of the IBDP (Theory of Knowledge) as well as secondary Philosophy (7-10) and develops / leads inter-school enrichment and extension events for students which provide opportunities for critical, creative, and collaborative dialogue and inquiry. Back to top
Dr Bronwen Wade-Leeuwen - Dr Bronwen Wade-Leeuwen is a Creative Artist and STEAM lecturer working at Macquarie University’s Department of Natural Sciences. She is a practicing exhibiting artist, researcher, teacher (Art-ographer), applying STEAM frameworks using ‘Arts-based inquiry’ in tertiary education. Bronwen’s research work includes working with Indigenous artists in Australia and with children and teachers in the Asian Pacific Region and she has played an active role in developing 21-century critical and creative skills in pre-service primary teachers during their tertiary education. Bronwen has extensive experience working with international Artists and academics developing creative partnerships in Australia, China, Germany, Korea, Singapore, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. Back to top
Dr Christine Furner - Dr Christine Furner is a member of Karen Yager’s Executive Team at Hills Grammar, in the position of Director of Professional Learning. She has held a number of teaching and leadership positions across State and Independent schools. A career highlight has been the completion of a PhD on how to boost teacher and leadership learning across all career stages as a means to improve practice, support staff wellbeing and resilience and accelerate student learning outcomes. Last year Chris was the recipient of The Teachers’ Guild Award for her Contribution to Education. With Karen Yager, she has recently established The Learning Centre at Hills Grammar which is the engine room of professional learning at the school, offering innovative sessions and collaborative professional services for staff, educators, and professionals locally and nationally. Back to top
Dr Damian Maher - Dr Damian Maher is a senior lecturer in Education within the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). Damian teaches a range of subjects in the Initial Teacher Educational program including behaviour management as well as technology focused learning. Damian’s research is focused on the use of educational technologies from kindergarten through to the tertiary level. His current research focuses on how artificial intelligence (AI) is being used by teachers and students in schools as well as by pre-service teachers in universities. He has written a number of chapters on the topic, looking at AI and literacy. Back to top
Debbie Lowe - Debbie Lowe is Director, Senior Consultant Engagement at Growth Coaching International and is accredited as a Senior Practitioner Coach with the European Mentoring and Coaching Council. Her educational leadership experience includes over 25 years leading in NSW public education settings in roles including senior executive, director of principal networks and two substantive school principalships. She has a reputation as a people-centric leader and building teams who achieve results above expectations and experience joy in their work. Significant career achievements have included leading the establishment of a new school, setting up a Learning & Engagement Centre for Aboriginal students and establishing a STEM Academy across several secondary schools aligned to regional employment opportunities. Her leadership of GCI’s Senior Consultant team across East Coast Australia East Coast brings together her passions for coaching, mentoring and developing the capacity of school leaders at all levels on a global basis. Back to top
Douglas Broadbent - Douglas Broadbent currently serves as the Head of Teaching and Learning at Shore, an independent boys school in North Sydney. He has previously worked in leadership roles at Trinity Grammar, Thomas Hassall Anglican College, and Meriden. His current role has a focus on professional learning, and he has been able to work with a range of educators to develop teaching and learning at Shore. His partnership with scholars from UNSW has been particularly important in thinking through the nature of effective professional learning. Doug is currently working on a doctorate at UNSW, which seeks to understand concepts of collaboration. He hopes that his research will assist educators in having greater clarity about what it means to collaborate effectively.Back to top
Dr Kimberley Pressick-Kilborn - Dr Kimberley Pressick-Kilborn started her career as a primary teacher. After working as a casual academic and research assistant, in 2004 she took up a tenured academic position in Teacher Education at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). Highlights in Kimberley’s time at UTS included accompanying preservice teachers on international professional experiences in Samoa and Bhutan, as well as collaborating in leading externally funded research evaluations of science education initiatives. She held leadership roles in external engagement and school partnerships in the School of International Studies and Education during her tenure. In 2021, Kimberley returned to the independent school sector, working as a primary teacher and Deputy Head of Junior School at Newington College before being appointed Director of Research (P-12) at Trinity Grammar School in 2023, and then as Head of Research and Professional Growth (P-12) in 2025. Kimberley holds a PhD from the University of Sydney and is an Honorary Industry Fellow at UTS. Back to top
Ehab Gerges - Ehab Gerges is a dedicated and highly accomplished educator with qualifications in Business Management and Electrical Engineering, complemented by extensive teaching certifications. Accredited by the Department of Education to teach Science, Chemistry, and Physics, he is a recognized leader in STEM education. His expertise has been acknowledged through an Honorary Fellowship from the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales for his contributions to education and staff development. A recipient of the Toyota Community Trust & Public Education Foundation STEM Teachers Scholarship (2023), Ehab also holds a Graduate Certificate in STEM Education from the University of Canberra (2024) and accreditation as a STEM Educational Instructor by STEM.Org USA. With 10 years of Management experience and over 25 years of experience as a teacher of which 15 years in selective schooling, he has spearheaded transformative STEM initiatives, integrating sustainability, automation, and digital literacy. A sought-after speaker at statewide STEM conferences, Ehab continues to drive educational innovation, equipping students with future-focused skills. Back to top
Dr Elisabeth Duursma - Dr Elisabeth Duursma is a Research Theme Fellow in Work and Education at Western Sydney University. She holds a PhD in Education from Harvard University and has held academic positions in the U.S. and the Netherlands. Her research focuses on parenting, particularly father involvement and its impact on early child development. Elisabeth’s interdisciplinary work includes studies on parents in prison, parental leave for fathers, and teachers’ emotional labour. She collaborates with community organizations and is an active member of the Australian Fatherhood Research Consortium. Her work is dedicated to improving educational outcomes and fostering effective early learning environments. Back to top
Dr Fiona Phillips - Dr Fiona Phillips is a researcher in Innovative arts based narrative inquiry methods. Her PhD titled Becoming Musical: Stories from the Staff brings to attention the voices of 4 staff – 1 principal and 3 teachers from a public primary school in Victoria Australia where an increase in musical learning experiences unfolds through an injection of philanthropic funds. The staff members’ narratives provide unique insights into the experience of performativity, pressures and possibilities. Fiona’s on-going research includes inquiries across early years settings, primary schools, community spaces, developing nations and museums and galleries. Fiona teaches across 2 undergraduate and 2 post graduate degrees and across all 3 of Deakin’s campuses. Burwood, Warrnambool, Waurn Ponds and online. Fiona continues her artistic practice in creative sound and song compositions. Back to top
Dr Hoa Nguyen- Dr Hoa Nguyen is an Associate Professor in the School of Education, specialising in teacher education/development, mentoring, TESOL education and sociocultural theory. Much of her research focuses on culturally and linguistically diverse teachers and teaching. Hoa Nguyen holds a PhD from the University of Queensland and has co-led the Teacher Education and Development Research Group at UNSW. Previously, she worked at the University of Sydney from 2012-2015. Dr. Nguyen's research excellence has been recognised with awards such as the Dean’s Award for Higher Research Degree Excellence and the Endeavor Fellowship Award. She has published over 50 peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters, and co authored and co-edited six books. She was the Post Graduate Higher Degree Research Director at the School of Education from 2020-2022 and is currently the Director of the Doctor of Education Degree Program. Back to top
Jason Stanley - Jason Stanley is a transition expert researching how curriculum knowledge impacts both HSC performance and then first-year university success in the mathematical and statistical sciences. His work focuses on curriculum engagement, leveraging technology, AI, and ITS to support student learning. To focus engagement on high value curricula he developed the "6 things" paradigm, to help students consolidate knowledge and expand their mathematical and statistical skills. With ever increasing numbers of students entering the tertiary sector with no calculus training, the heavy lifting is being passed on to universities. Jason’s programs stand necessary to convert candidates, to not only surviving, but thriving students of tertiary mathematics. With a background in electronic systems engineering and Mathematics Extension 1/2 education, Jason has held leadership roles in both fields, including Chief Engineer in plant and manufacturing, capital projects, and Principal in a K-12 setting. His expertise bridges industry and education, keeping tertiary education relevant and driving student success through curriculum innovation. Back to top
Laureate Professor Jennifer Gore - Laureate Professor Jennifer Gore is a leader in education in Australia and internationally, Jenny has significant experience and expertise in educational research and leadership. Jenny was Dean of Education and Head of School at the University of Newcastle from 2008 to 2013 and is currently leading several major research projects as Director of the University’s Teachers and Teaching Research Centre. With more than $38 million in funding since 1992, Jenny’s research is driven by the notion that all children should experience high quality teaching. Her ongoing work on Quality Teaching and Quality Teaching Rounds, conducted with colleagues over the last decade, has shown how this framework can effectively support teacher professional development, increase teacher satisfaction, enhance teaching quality in schools, and improve student achievement while also narrowing equity gaps. Jenny’s research on improving teaching and learning saw the Quality Teaching Academy established in 2020. She has received awards and recognition from the ACDE, ACEL, AARE, AERA, ASSA, Royal Society of NSW, and the Paul Brock Memorial Medal and was most recently awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the 2024 Australia Day Honours for significant service to tertiary education. Back to top
Dr Jonathon Mascorella - Dr Jonathon Mascorella is a visionary educator and technologist, serving as Director of Innovation at Loreto Kirribilli. With a PhD exploring the nexus of power-knowledge and vocational education policy, he integrates cutting-edge technology into education. His initiatives include pioneering AI applications, fostering transdisciplinary learning with industry partnerships, and promoting STEM education among young women. His commitment to professional development and curriculum innovation continues to enrich the educational landscape in Australia. Back to top
Karen Yager - Karen Yager is the Principal of Hills Grammar School, President of the Australian Professional Teaching Association, Past President of the Australian Association for the Teaching of English Director and Director and life member of NSW English Teachers Association. She has been awarded the NSW Premier’s Scholarship, a National Reading Australia Fellowship, a leadership fellowship to China, a Singapore Ministry International Fellowship, the State Library of NSW Fellowship, and numerous professional teaching awards. Karen lectured at the University of NSW for twelve years and published three books. She is currently working on her PhD researching the impact of professional learning on student academic excellence. Back to top
Kate Corcoran - Kate Corcoran is an experienced educator and leader of learning. As a former Head of Faculty, she has vast experience mentoring and coaching teachers in the application and measurement of pedagogical practices designed to enhance student engagement and learning. With a background in the Social Sciences, Kate is a strong advocate for transdisciplinary problem solving and has led teachers in the development of a range of holistic learning experiences that encourage students to appreciate the complexity of real world challenges and the need for collaborative and creative responses to these challenges. Kate is currently leading the implementation of a whole school Action Research Professional Learning Program at Santa Sabina College. In this role, Kate provides instruction, guidance and support to teachers as they work in teams to gather and apply internal and external research to respond to their vexing puzzles of practice. Back to top
Dr Kathryn McLachlan - Dr Kathryn McLachlan is an experienced academic and community practitioner with a strong commitment to advancing education and research in Higher Education. Her extensive background encompasses a passion for outdoor learning environments and fostering nature connection. Kath’s multifaceted portfolio includes teaching, research, and engagement activities, all rooted in relational approaches with a central emphasis on reflective and contemplative practices. Her pedagogical approach emphasises not only the experiential nature of learning, but also the cultivation of critical thinking skills and the ability to approach challenges with a creative mindset. Her commitment to reflective practice is evident in her encouraging students and colleagues alike to engage in thoughtful self-examination, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement. Back to top
Dr Keith Heggart - Dr Keith Heggart is a Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and Director of the Centre for Research on Education in a Digital Society (CREDS). My passion lies in civics, citizenship, and digital learning, and my work spans research, teaching, and leadership in these fields. I completed my PhD at UTS in 2018 and have since coordinated and developed a range of programs, including the Master of Teaching (Secondary) and several Graduate Certificates in Learning Design and Education. As a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA), I am committed to fostering excellence in tertiary teaching and learning, particularly through student-centered approaches and innovative curriculum design. In recognition of my dedication to research-informed practice, I have received multiple accolades, including the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) Learner Engagement Division Innovation Award (2022), the Culture, Language and Technology Outstanding Publication Award (2022), the Teachers Guild of NSW Remote Teaching Award (2022), and the Emerging Scholar Award from the Australasian Society for Computers in Learning in Tertiary Education (ASCILITE) in 2021. Beyond UTS, I contribute to educational policy and practice through my membership in the Education Advisory Group for the Parliament of New South Wales, and I hold leadership roles within professional organizations such as ASCILITE and AECT. Back to top
Dr Kim Wilson - Dr Kim Wilson is a Senior Lecturer in Education and Director of Programs for the Teachers’ Learning Hub at Macquarie University. Kim works actively in partnered educational research and teacher professional learning, with expertise in the areas of practitioner inquiry, school wide research, critical thinking in educational contexts, mid-career transition to teaching and mentoring. Kim has led research partnerships with Secondary, Primary and K-12 schools across sectors as well as Early Childhood Centres. Kim has thirty years’ experience in education in both the Tertiary and Secondary sectors with fifteen years of that experience in leadership positions. She is the 2024 winner (team) of the Vice Chancellor’s Educational Leader Award for Excellence and the 2023 winner (team) of the Faculty of Arts Educational Leader award. Kim is an expert practitioner with a strong track record of academic and professional publications that support and extend her research agenda and professional practice. Back to top
Dr Kirsten Macaulay - Dr Kirsten Macaulay is a highly respected educator with nearly 30 years of experience. Holding a PhD in education, she has extensively researched questioning techniques in primary and secondary classrooms. As Deputy Head of Quality Teaching (K–12) at St. Andrew’s Cathedral School, she is dedicated to fostering excellence in teaching and learning. Her career spans leadership roles such as Head of Music and Head of Performing Arts, where she has driven innovation and growth. Beyond the classroom, she has served as NESA Chief Examiner for Music, contributed to curriculum development, and played an active role in the Australian Society for Music Education (NSW). Recognised for her impact, she was awarded the esteemed Dr Paul Brock Medal and was listed on The Educator’s Hot List for 2024. Committed to professional development, Dr. Macaulay regularly presents at conferences, mentors early career teachers, and engages in educational research. Back to top
Lisa Tabuteau - Lisa Tabuteau is the Director of Academic (Boarding) at Presbyterian Ladies' College Sydney. Her interests include developing academic and emotional resilience in the secondary education system. She was part of developing the pathway for international students to join the Australian Education system, hence her interest in building a bridge to becoming a part of the local culture through journaling. She is a senior English teacher, HSC marker, and part of the team that introduced the Cambridge Courses to our shores. Back to top
Dr Lynn Sheridan - Dr Lynn Sheridan, a teaching academic at the University of Wollongong, holds a PhD in Education from the University of Canberra. Her research primarily focuses on teachers' development, retention, and non-academic attributes. Currently she us exploring how teachers manage job-related emotions while working with culturally and linguistically diverse students, aiming to equip professionals with strategies for retention and wellbeing. Additionally, Dr. Sheridan also focuses on Higher Education teaching and learning, particularly pedagogy and curriculum renewal. As a Chief Investigator for a Global Challenges project on Generative AI Teaching in Higher Education, she is currently exploring artificial intelligence in teaching. This transnational project aims to shape future university policies and educational practices. In summary, Dr. Sheridan’s research supports the development of future-ready professionals in both local and global contexts. Back to top
Dr Mahendra Samarawickrama - Dr Mahendra Samarawickrama is a senior leader in Safe and Responsible AI, strengthening AI ethics and governance frameworks. His contributions to AI ethics and governance were recognised when he received the prestigious Australian ICT Professional of the Year 2022 national award from the Australian Computer Society (ACS). As a member of the IEEE AI Standards Committee, he plays a pivotal role in shaping governance frameworks for Safe and Responsible AI. Mahendra assists peak technology bodies, enterprises, and governments in adopting and orchestrating AI strategies, policies, and best practices. He serves as an Advisory Council Member of the Harvard Business Review (HBR), an AI ethics expert at the Global AI Ethics Institute, a Senior Member of IEEE (SMIEEE), a member of the EU AI Alliance, an industry mentor at the UNSW Business School and the University of Melbourne, and a graduate member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD). Back to top
Associate Professor Anne-Louise Semple - Associate Professor Anne-Louise has a sustained record in the education sector involving strategic leadership and management, teaching and learning, and research. As a geographer, her approach to this work has been centred on understanding place and engaging with place-based context. She has received learning and teaching awards and been member to collectives that are nationally and internationally recognised for contributions to work-integrated-learning (WIL) leadership and practices. Back to top
Merinda Kelly- Merinda Kelly works in the arts, culture, heritage and imaginative hands-on and digital learning in schools, universities, museums, and galleries. Her research focuses on designing and activating participatory projects that bring the arts, culture, and nature into closer relationship with the everyday lives of children, youth and broader communities in urban, remote, and regional contexts. These intersecting fields of practice inform and fuel her activism and advocacy for inclusive and sustainable access to the arts and culture for all. Merinda’s teaching and research areas at Deakin University converge to include visual arts, design and media education, creative arts practices and processes and visual, sensorial, and media literacies. Her current practices remain informed by K-12 teaching roles spanning low SES through to private schools and former roles as Director of Teaching and Learning K-12. She was also the Head of a dedicated senior secondary Arts, Technology and Design Campus where she hosted student exhibitions and Victorian Curriculum Authority regional teacher meetings and professional learning workshops as a curriculum writer, state examination setter and assessor. Back to top
Professor Michele Simons - Professor Michele Simons is the Dean and Head of the School of Education at Western Sydney University. Michele has been an active researcher for more than three decades. The common thread across her work is an interest in workforce planning, learning in the workplace and initial and ongoing professional learning for teachers, leaders and other professional staff employed across all sectors of education. Michele is the current President of the Australian Council of Deans of Education which is a peak organisation for all Higher Education Providers conducting teaching and research in the discipline of Education. Back to top
Dr Nicole Archard - Dr Nicole Archard (BA DipEd, MA, MEdLead, MTheolSt, PhD) is the Principal of Loreto Kirribilli. Nicole’s PhD thesis was on the topic of girls’ education and women and leadership. In particular, this research focussed on how girls’ school experiences could help address gender inequity issues by helping girls to build their self-efficacy and leadership identity, thus helping them to develop the knowledge and skills required for leadership in their post-school lives. Nicole is an advocate for single-sex education and in October 2018 was interviewed on 60 Minutes Australia as a spokesperson for girls’ education. Nicole has written several opinion pieces for print and digital media on girls’ education and social issues concerning girls and women. She has presented at national and international conferences on the topics of women and leadership and girls’ education and has published numerous peer reviewed academic journal articles and book chapters in these areas. In 2011, Nicole received the Excellence in Research Award for the Faculty of Human Sciences at Macquarie University, Sydney. Back to top
Dr Parisa Ziaesaeidi - Dr Parisa Ziaesaeidi is a passionate educator and architectural writer, dedicated to exploring architecture from various perspectives. With experience in both academia and industry, she holds a PhD from Queensland University of Technology, Australia. She is also an Associate Fellow of the UK Higher Education Academy and a member of STEM Women. She believes in the role of democratic urban design in advocating for children and youth. She facilitates workshops with children and youth to empower their voices in the urban design process. Her research focuses on social sustainability within the built environment. Her expertise in these areas is reflected in her publications in international journals, conferences, and architectural magazines, such as WAC, where she is recognised as an architectural journalist for the Australian page. Back to top
Penny Van Bergen - Penny Van Bergen is an Associate Professor in Educational Psychology at Macquarie University. Her research focuses on the science of learning, the development of memory and emotion, and the development of close teacher-student relationships. She is currently funded by the Australian Research Council’s Discovery and Linkage schemes, Google, and the New Zealand Royal Society. She has a passion for fostering connections between research and practice in teaching, and to this end has created a number of initiatives to support pre-service teachers to engage with research including summer scholarships, internships, and online resources. She has held roles as Head of School in the School of Education at the University of Wollongong, Director of Research at Macquarie University, Director of the Centre for Children’s Learning in a Social World, and Associate Dean Teaching and Learning in the Faculty of Human Sciences at Macquarie. Back to top
Rebecca Birch - Rebecca Birch is a teacher of English and Academic in Residence at a top 40 independent school in Sydney, Australia. After a successful career in advertising and fashion, she transitioned into education, working as a learning support officer in diverse settings while completing her teacher training. She is a founding member of the Centre for Research in Schools at UNSW and a recipient of The Educators Magazine’s Most Influential Educator Award 2024. Rebecca has consulted for Ochre Education and presented on literacy nation wide. She has presented at researchED and represented the profession at the Gonski Institute for Education. Her research explores the link between explicit instruction and student wellbeing. She publishes widely, including a newsletter read by 4,000 subscribers across 83 countries. Back to top
Dr Sarah Loch - Dr Sarah Loch over her teaching career has been a social educator for adults with disability, a secondary school teacher, wellbeing leader, school executive leader, and a casual academic in Education at a number of universities. She is the founding Director of the Pymble Institute at Pymble Ladies’ College, which is the school’s hub of research-related activities. In this capacity, she works with students, staff and alumni, along with academics and partners from external organisations, to create opportunities for research. Her research and current work spans creative ways of writing and researching in the field of Education. At Pymble, she teaches Religion and Ethics, and Big History, where she loves helping her students develop a passion for scholarship. She co-leads the College’s Social Intelligence strategic pillar and, in addition to research, is responsible for the College Libraries, Archives, Social Impact and Careers programs. Back to top
Associate Professor Simon Knight - Associate Professor Simon Knight is an Australian Research Council (ARC) Discovery Early Career Research Award (DECRA) Fellow at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), based in the Transdisciplinary School. His research focuses on how people learn, teach, and make decisions in complex, data-rich environments, particularly within educational and professional settings. Back to top
Dr Suzana Sukovic - Dr Suzana Sukovic is the Director of PLC Sydney Research Portfolio, and an Industry Fellow at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at UTS. She has spent her career in education, working across secondary, tertiary, and workplace learning. She has held roles in research, library, and teaching, with significant experience in leadership positions. With a doctoral degree in information studies and over twenty years of research experience, she is a strong advocate for practice-based research. Her professional work and publications frequently focus on innovation and the impact of technology on education and knowledge work, and recently, on epistemic well-being. Back to top
Dr Tanya Kwee - Dr Tanya Kwee is an education researcher and award-winning educator based at the University of New South Wales, Sydney. Her scholarly work focuses on teacher professional learning, leadership development, and the vocational motivations that inform sustained engagement in the teaching profession. She is particularly interested in how partnerships across universities, schools, and communities can strengthen teacher agency and support context-responsive professional growth. Tanya’s research encompasses mentoring, collaborative inquiry, online and remote learning, STEM education, and education for sustainable development. Her work has been published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences. She has also led and contributed to several funded research projects, particularly in the area of teacher professional development and mentoring. She is committed to advancing systems and structures that support meaningful, sustained teacher learning and transformative educational practice. Back to top
Dr Tim Kitchen - Dr Tim Kitchen has 23 years teaching Primary, Secondary and Higher Education and has been Adobe’s Senior Education Specialist for Asia Pacific since 2013. He regularly liaises with schools & universities focusing on enhancing creativity in education. A passionate advocate for creativity in education, and a well-recognised education thought leader in Australia, Tim is a best-selling author and regular presenter for a wide range of national and international education events. Back to top
Tony Loughland - Tony Loughland is an Associate Professor and Head of School in the School of Education at the University of New South Wales. Tony is an experienced educator who likes to think that theory should be the plaything of practice. Tony is currently leading projects on mentoring conversations on professional experience, school-based teacher education, and professional growth cultures in schools. Back to top
To find out more about the sponsorship & exhibition opportunities that we have available for this event, please contact:
Dr Frederick Osman
President, Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales
T: +61 418 318 418
E: president@teachersguild.nsw.edu.au
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