Episode 25: End-of-Year Reflection

Evelyn Carter

Welcome back to Leading for Impact in Anangu Lands Schools. It’s Evelyn here—can you believe we’ve made it to the end of the school year already? I feel like it was only yesterday we were talking about the first episode! Today’s a bit special. We’re going to wrap things up, look back at some of the incredible work happening across the Lands, and hopefully leave everyone feeling proud and ready for a well-deserved rest.

Liam Warragul

Absolutely, Evelyn. G’day everyone, it’s Liam. I’ve honestly been reflecting a lot this week. There’s this real sense of community and growth that stood out the whole year, you know? From what we’ve seen, so much of that strength comes from how leadership out here is grounded in Anangu knowledge—putting language, culture, and relationships first. That’s something we’ve talked about a lot, but I reckon it’s been a real anchor for the whole series.

Dan Harrison

Yeah, definitely. And it’s Dan here. For me, one of the things that really stuck this year was that sense of shared leadership. Like, when Anangu and Piranpa educators come together along with families, what happens in classrooms—it just feels different, you know? Students engage more, they see themselves reflected in what they’re learning. That partnership sets a whole tone for the school.

Evelyn Carter

And we can’t talk about the year without a massive shoutout to everyone across Anangu schools—all the principals, Anangu Coordinators, site leaders, teachers, Aboriginal educators, support staff… Honestly, you’ve all played such vital roles in building places where students feel like they belong. None of it’s easy, especially with the sort of challenges that pop up out there. I hope people know just how much we see and appreciate the effort.

Liam Warragul

Too right, Evelyn. I reckon one of the big things that’s come through—maybe more than ever before—is that investing in the people doing the work makes all the difference. Supporting teachers and especially Aboriginal educators is what keeps the momentum going. When you’re focusing on workforce development, it’s not just about having more staff, but about building their skills, sharing knowledge, keeping it sustainable.

Dan Harrison

And that’s so connected to what we see with student-centred practice. I mean, even in really busy, tricky weeks, schools are putting student voice front and centre. Whether it’s letting students help decide what they learn about, or finding new ways to keep everyone’s wellbeing in sight. I think, as we’ve said in earlier episodes, if the learning’s not meaningful for kids, then what’s the point?

Evelyn Carter

Exactly. And I love seeing how much reflection has just become part of everyone’s practice—like leaders, teams, even us on the pod! It’s all about checking in, asking those tough questions, and celebrating what’s gone well. I might be rambling, but this whole idea of resilience… taking time to recover from setbacks, being okay with not having every answer, and still showing up for students—that’s something to celebrate.

Liam Warragul

Yeah, and just quietly, that reflective bit is something we probably didn’t talk about enough at the start of the year, but it’s so key. When leaders set aside time to look at what matters, use data or even stories from the community, things just keep moving forward. We’ve learned a lot about, you know, making space to actually see those achievements, big or small.

Dan Harrison

We have, mate. And thinking back to all those episodes—about wellbeing, about family engagement, about keeping culture central—it honestly feels like what ties it all together is that collective spirit. I always say the wins aren’t individual. It’s the site teams, the families, and even the students themselves. I actually had a student the other day say they wanted to grow up and “lead for kids like me”—that’s the impact, right?

Evelyn Carter

Oh, I love that. It makes it all worthwhile. And you know, as the year draws to a close, it’s a good time for anyone listening—maybe you’re in leadership, maybe you’re in the classroom or in a support role—to just pause and celebrate all those wins, even the tiny ones. And if you’re celebrating as a team, remember to say thank you to each other. You’ve earned it.

Liam Warragul

If I could, I’d hand out certificates to every single person listening. Maybe one day, hey? But really, thanks to all staff—your dedication, your resilience, your commitment, especially when it’s tough, is what makes these schools such special places for kids and families. There’s been real progress: stronger cultural leadership, improvements in teaching, and some awesome moments for student wellbeing.

Dan Harrison

And while we’re reflecting—maybe take some time at break-up to talk about what went well. How will you celebrate with your team or with students? What’s something you want to build on next year? That’s the best way to keep the conversation, and the growth, going.

Evelyn Carter

Which I guess brings us to looking ahead. The podcast will keep going next year—we’ll have new topics, hopefully more voices from across the Lands. We’d love to hear ideas from listeners, too. This series works best when it sparks real reflection—whether that’s in leadership meetings, team catch-ups, or just on your drive home.

Liam Warragul

Yeah, absolutely. And before we sign off, just want to wish everyone a really safe, restful, and joyful school holiday. Recharge, celebrate—you all deserve it. We’re grateful for each and every one of you tuning in and being part of this bigger journey.

Dan Harrison

Thanks so much for joining us this year. Look after yourselves, thank your mates, and we hope to see you back next year, ready for another yarn about leading for impact on Anangu Lands. Evelyn, Liam, it’s been a ripper having these chats with you both!

Evelyn Carter

Likewise, Dan—couldn’t ask for better co-hosts, honestly. Thanks everyone for listening and for all you do. Bye for now!

Liam Warragul

Catch you next year, everyone—take care and enjoy the break.

Dan Harrison

See you soon, mob. Have a good one.