SAVE THE DATE: 10-12th September 2025

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Technology – What have We done to the Wellbeing and Attitudes of Young People in Our Schools?

Abstract: During the 1980s some schools around the world allowed (and even condoned) senior students smoking cigarettes. The harmful effects of smoking on human health are now well understood and it would be unthinkable for a school to permit this in 2025. It is proposed in this presentation that we are about to realise that schools allowing young people to use smart devices has parallels with smoking cigarettes.  What have we done as to the wellbeing and attitudes of young people in our schools? This presentation will draw on growing research pointing to the harmful effects of technology use on young people: their wellbeing; their ability to form positive relationships, and their learning effectiveness. In response, Hale School has recently developed a new position on technology use and together with parents’ support began the 2025 academic year with younger students not having access to social media nor owning a ‘smart’ device.  The presentation will explain Hale School’s approach to a better use of technology that prepares students for a technological future without compromising their health and wellbeing.

Bio: In April 2017, Mr Dean Dell’Oro was appointed Hale School’s 20th Headmaster. Before commencing at Hale, Dean was Head of the Corio Senior School Campus at Geelong Grammar School in Victoria, Australia. Dean was raised on a farm in the Goulburn Valley, Victoria. He studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Melbourne and commenced his career as an engineer with ExxonMobil. Dean’s passion for working with people and for education were the inspiration for his career change to teaching. He gained a Diploma in Education from Monash University and then moved to the United Kingdom where he graduated with an MBA in Educational Management from the University of Leicester.  He worked for several years at Brentwood School, London, teaching Middle and Senior School students in classes comprising boys only, as well as co-educational environments. His knowledge of that curriculum and the pathways to tertiary institutions in the UK underpins his understanding that Hale boys need to be prepared for a global world of opportunities. On his return to Australia, Dean taught for many years at Geelong Grammar School as Head of the Mathematics Department and a senior boys’ boarding house. In Perth, Dean is a Board Director with St Bartholomew’s House where he enthusiastically involves himself in its mission for every person to have a home. He is an active member of the Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia, promoting the value of a strong and united independent schooling system. He is also on the Board of Trustees of the International Boys’ Schools Coalition, focused on best education practices for boys worldwide.

Leading Through Change: Anchored in Values, Driven by Action.

Abstract: How do you ensure that your leadership decisions reflect the pillars of the school and shape school culture in a meaningful, visible way? Leading through change can feel like navigating rough seas – unpredictable, challenging and at times overwhelming. In these moments, leadership is not about resisting the waves, but staying anchored to the pillars, or values, that define your school. But values alone are not enough. They must be translated into action. This collaborative keynote explores the critical connection between values and action, and prompts leaders to evaluate how their core principles are demonstrated in their school.

Bio: Professor Tanya Fitzgerald (PhD, SFHEA, FRHistS) is dean of the Graduate School of Education at The University of Western Australia. Tanya has held leadership roles in universities across Australia, New Zealand and England. Her research interests focus on contemporary and historical understandings of gender, leadership and social change in higher education. Kelly Pattison is the Director of Circular Learning. With experience in teacher education, curriculum development, and senior leadership across international settings, she specialises in supporting school leaders and educators to build capacity, refine their skills, and implement effective strategies for improving student outcomes. Sandra Houghton is Director of Circular Learning and a Digital Learning Strategist at The University of Western Australia. Sandra has held instructional design, teacher education and leadership roles in Australia and Spain. She specialises in enhancing teaching and learning practices through innovative pedagogy, digital tools, and learning resource development.

SPEAKERS

11th September 2025:

“Building Inclusive Cultures across the school”

Abstract: The building of school cultures that acknowledges and celebrates inclusion is a cornerstone of the philosophy of Shenton College approach to teaching, learning and community engagement. This breakout session will focus the College’s approach to inclusion through an examination of its business plan, core values of care, curiosity and collaboration and look at ways the student voice and community agency is part of our everyday practices.

Bio: Gary Green is the Head of Shenton’s Middle School, working with the Year 7 and 8 leaders, staff and students. Gary joined Shenton in 2015 having worked in both Government and Independent schools, and for the International Baccalaureate as one of the Lead Educators in the Asia Pacific region. At Shenton, Gary has been a Head of Community and taught HASS to mainstream, HPL and GATE students. Gary has been instrumental in leading service-based learning at the College. His focus has been on providing opportunities for students to pursue passion projects, leading them to take principled action in developing a shared humanity and guardianship for the planet.

“Well-being and Mental Health”

Abstract: At Shenton College, student well-being is at the heart of everything we do. This session will explore our proactive approach to fostering mental health and resilience within our school community. Facilitator Samantha White will discuss key strategies for supporting students’ emotional and psychological well-being, including whole-school initiatives, targeted interventions, and the role of student services. Attendees will gain insight into how Shenton College promotes a culture of care and equips students with the skills to navigate challenges with confidence and resilience. The session will conclude with a Q&A, providing an opportunity for discussion and shared learning.

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12th September 2025:

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