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.
Marg thinks volunteering is an extraordinary experience
As a Corporate Responsibility Manager, Marg knows the importance of giving back. When she learned that she could volunteer to help disadvantaged students in Years 9 to 11 by becoming a mentor, she jumped at the chance. That was four years ago. And seeing the positive shifts in students keeps Marg coming back.
Why Anna and Kathy volunteer at Learning Club
Anna and Kathy are devoted Learning Club volunteers and VIEW Club members
Strangers cared about Paul’s future: now he’s giving that gift to others