Understanding School Attendance: Challenges and Solutions
School attendance in Australia is a complex issue affecting many students and families. Dr Kirsten Hancock, The Smith Family’s National Manager, Research and Evaluation, breaks down the latest trends and challenges, emphasising the need for supportive, non-punitive measures.
Teachers transforming lives
Meet two remarkable primary school principals from the Illawarra region of New South Wales, who see firsthand the challenges and hopes for young people experiencing disadvantage. Alison Forthuber is the Principal of Bellambi Public School and Rachel Armer is the Assistant Principal of Warilla North Public School, both partner schools of The Smith Family.
Digital Poverty: The New Frontier of Disadvantage
Ahead of Anti-Poverty Week, this conversation examines poverty in modern Australia and how digital poverty is hindering disadvantaged youth in education and employment.
What I want for my children's education: Kelly's story
In our final conversation for 2024, we meet Kelly, a parent with two children on our Learning for Life program. Kelly reflects on the year that’s been, as cost-of-living pressures continue to take a heavy toll on families, and her aspirations for her children’s education.
Meet our Board Chairman Nicholas Moore
Nicholas Moore joined The Smith Family as Chairman of the Board in 2019 and has helped to guide the development of our new Five-Year Strategy. Read More
David Gonski: Funding and fairness in Australian education
In this episode, we speak with business leader, philanthropist and education advocate David Gonski AC about the recent developments in Australian education reform and what’s needed to ensure every child – no matter their background – has the opportunity to succeed.
Georgie Dent: fighting for every child to access early learning
Georgie Dent, CEO of The Parenthood, shares why universal access to quality, affordable early learning is essential to break cycles of disadvantage and support children, parents, and carers across Australia.
The gift that keeps on giving
Mark’s story is the perfect example of the powerful impact of leaving a Bequest in your Will to The Smith Family – and shows just how educational support can break the cycle of poverty.
Jon’s gift to keep helping
Jon knew leaving a gift in his Will to The Smith Family would create more possibilities for disadvantaged students and help them break the poverty cycle.
Support helped Susana find answers to big life questions
Experience real life results, meet children on our programs & discover more Smith Family stories - Support helped Susana find answers