At Shore, we believe that just as students are lifelong learners, so too are teachers. Our commitment to professional growth shapes much of the work we do with our staff, ensuring that thoughtful reflection on practice remains at the heart.
A recent professional learning day highlighted this commitment, bringing global expertise to our School for a day of rich discussion about the best ways to teach Mathematics. We were also privileged to host many colleagues from other schools across the country for the event.
The programme was led by Mr Ollie Lovell, an Australian teacher, researcher, and podcaster, and featured internationally recognised Mathematics educator Mr Craig Barton.
Craig’s message was both simple and powerful: Students remember what they think about. Learning Mathematics, he explained, is not about being “naturally gifted” but about consistently engaging with ideas in clear and structured ways. He described a process he calls “atomisation” – breaking big ideas into small, manageable steps so that students can practise with confidence and gradually combine skills and knowledge to solve more complex problems.
He also emphasised the importance of “deliberate practice.” This is about using carefully designed problems that help students see patterns, strengthen flexibility, and avoid common mistakes. Barton also noted the growing role of technology, including AI, in classrooms. His advice was one of balance: technology should support learning but never replace the essential process of thinking mathematically, with a teacher’s guidance.
The day was an inspiring opportunity for Shore’s teachers to learn alongside world leaders in Mathematics education.
Shore also welcomed two leading voices in education for a recent masterclass on coaching. Dr Simon Breakspear, who has worked closely with Shore through our Shore Teacher Expertise Programme (STEP), joined international author and educator Mr Tom Sherrington to share insights into how coaching can support teacher growth.
The day was grounded in what we know about learning: that meaningful progress comes from clarity, practice, and reflection. Simon and Tom worked with participants to explore practical ways teachers can collaborate with coaches and leaders to strengthen their classroom practice. Their model of coaching emphasises small but significant changes that, over time, build expertise and confidence in teaching.
It was also a pleasure to welcome colleagues from schools around Australia to join us in these conversations. Their contributions enriched the day and highlighted the value of working together on the shared challenge of improving teaching.
For Shore, hosting these events reflect an ongoing commitment to engaging with excellence in teaching and learning. Professional growth is not an optional extra but a vital part of our educational culture, and we are proud that our staff continue to take part in conversations that shape the wider educational landscape. By investing in our teachers, we ensure that our students benefit from classrooms where great teaching is always at the centre.
Mr Doug Broadbent
Head of Teaching and Learning, Acting
Professional Development Q&As
Shore invests deliberately in the growth of its educators through sustained professional learning. Teachers engage with current research, expert practitioners, and coaching models that refine practice over time. This approach recognises teaching as a profession that develops through reflection, collaboration, and continual learning.
When teachers deepen their expertise, students benefit directly. Classrooms become more engaging and learning more purposeful. By investing in staff development, Shore ensures boys experience teaching that is thoughtful, responsive, and grounded in evidence about how students learn best.
Shore actively engages with leading voices in education, including Australian and international specialists. These opportunities ensure our teachers are learning alongside the best in the field.
A key message shared with staff is that learning is not about innate ability, but about engagement, clarity, and practice. Teachers are supported to break complex ideas into manageable steps and guide students through deliberate practice. This helps boys build confidence, reduce anxiety, and experience success through effort.
Professional learning at Shore focuses on practical classroom impact. Teachers refine how they explain ideas, design practice tasks, and use feedback. Small, well-considered improvements accumulate over time, creating lessons that are more focused and more effective for students at every stage.
Shore embraces innovation thoughtfully. Teachers are encouraged to use technology, including emerging tools such as AI, where it enhances learning. At the same time, professional learning reinforces that deep thinking, guided practice, and teacher expertise remain central to effective education.