Minnis Journals

For Education Leaders

Bullying in Schools: Prevention or Cure?

The evolutionary psychologists argue that aggression is innate and its expression, especially in adolescence and is in many circumstances virtually unstoppable, though it may be deterred, at least in some cases by sanctions or punishment. There are good grounds for believing that this can be so. But there are also good grounds for believing that alternative and appropriately conducted interventions can work better for most students. Read more

Uni Entrance Programs are Winning

Meeting the target of a majority holding at least a bachelor degree has meant a rethink of uni admissions.
In-school enabling programs (ISEPs) designed with universities have become common, assisting less advantaged students or those who don't thrive in high stakes exams enter university. It was time for these programs to be appraised and the first national, cross-institutional study of these programs has been released. Read more

Are We Curious - or Are We Simply Trying to Prove We Are Right?

In almost every workshop I run, I invite educators to partner up and discuss a challenge they are experiencing. The instruction is deceptively simple: do not solve the problem. Do not reassure them. Do not share your own experience. Just listen with genuine curiosity.
Almost every time, participants return with the same reflection: "That was much harder than I expected."
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One Size Doesn’t Fit All: How Independent Schools Empower Every Learner

For too long, vocational education has been viewed as the ‘poor cousin’ of the HSC academic route - a fallback option rather than a ﬁrst choice.
As a result, Australia now faces a shortage of skilled workers, particularly in construction, mechanical and industrial industries. According to Jobs and Skills Australia, 139 occupations have been in shortage every year since 2021, many of them skilled trades and construction-related roles. Read more

Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria

Perception is how something is regarded, understood, or interpreted. This definition highlights the potential inaccuracies that may unravel. My perception depends on my sensitivity to how others see me, my ability to understand without personal bias toward myself or others, and my skill at interpreting situations accurately.
These precursors can send many people into a dysphoric nightmare. Dysphoria is the opposite of euphoria. Read more

Indigenous Language Murrawarri Taught Through Song

Busking For Change is the Indigenous Literacy Foundation's national music fundraising program. Participants learn and perform a song featuring Aboriginal language and English, while raising funds to support ILF's work in remote First Nations Communities.
Each year, a new song is created in partnership with a remote Community, celebrating culture, language, storytelling and connection to Country.
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