Round Table Discussions

9.15 – 9.45am

Dr Ari Pinar

Student Wellbeing, Connection and Belonging in the Age of AI + Tech

In this interactive discussion, we’ll explore how the rapid rise of AI and other disruptive technologies is reshaping the classroom experience, from challenging traditional assessment practices to influencing how students connect, create, and find meaning in their learning. Together, we’ll unpack how schools can harness AI not as a threat, but as an opportunity to deepen critical thinking, enhance creativity, and foster authentic student engagement. We’ll also discuss practical strategies to protect and promote student wellbeing, identity, and belonging in this tech-driven age, ensuring human connection stays at the heart of education.

10.00 – 10.30am

Uplift Community

In-the-Moment Tools for Student Wellbeing

High school students are under more pressure than ever, yet with academic, extracurricular, and social demands filling their days, most don’t have time for traditional wellbeing practices. With short attention spans and few moments to pause, they need tools that work in the moment. This discussion explores practical, science-backed strategies, such as breathwork, that can be used in under a minute to reduce stress, improve focus, and help students feel more in control. We’ll also share a few of these tools so you can experience their immediate impact.

10.45 – 11.15am

Code Club

AI and Machine Learning - a gentle introduction

AI is everywhere at the moment, and as exciting (or scary) as it is, it can be daunting to know where to start.  Let's explore coding projects for 8-13 years olds that provide a gentle introduction to AI and machine learning where our young people are the ones creating the tech, to understand better what it can do.  Take away some free resources and share the ones that you like to use.

11.45 – 12.15pm

Scanning Pens

Assistive Technology in the Classroom

We will discuss what works and what doesn’t – with a focus on students with reading difficulties. Come along and share ideas and learn new strategies.

12.45 – 1.15pm

SSTOP2020, The Feds

Keeping it Positive -An Innovative Approach to Aligning with the ACARA Sustainability Cross Curricular Priority

Meet the makers of the Stay Tuned to Our Planet (STTOP) team and learn about their new educational program along with key learnings on teaching about environmental issues and sustainability. Adapted from the YouTuber hosted STTOP online series, the 64+ educational resources support teaching about sustainability and deliver innovative and dynamic activities students can do at school and at home. Mapped to the Sciences and Humanities Australian Curriculum the resources are aimed at years 5-6, and 7-9 and come with a Teacher Support Resource co-authored by the Orygen Institute, headspace and Psychology for a Safe Climate, Climate Emotions in the Classroom: Practical Tips for Teachers.

3.15 – 3.45pm

Blurred Minds

Decoding Big Tobacco: A collaborative dive into the influence of vaping and nicotine pouches on youth

Join us for a hands-on roundtable discussion where we dig into how vaping and nicotine pouches are being cleverly marketed to young people. These products are designed to confuse, mislead, and hook a new generation—and schools are on the front line. Together, we will explore how to go beyond health facts and spark meaningful conversations that help students see through the smoke and mirrors. You will leave with fresh insights, classroom-ready strategies, and resources to strengthen your wellbeing programs. Bring your curiosity and your voice—this is a space to share, challenge, and collaborate.

9.15 – 9.45am

Cool.org

Responsible AI in Education

Cool.org, in collaboration with Melbourne University's Centre for AI and Digital Ethics, has developed a series of professional learning courses designed to support teachers in navigating AI in education. This round table discussion is an opportunity to hear directly from educators about their ethical concerns around the use of AI in schools. Whether you're new to AI or have already undertaken some professional development, we're keen to hear your thoughts and questions. The insights shared will help shape and tailor the courses to ensure they meet the real needs and priorities of educators. 

10.00 – 10.30am

Code Club

Digital Skills - how libraries and classrooms are making a difference

Hear case studies of running Code Clubs in libraries, schools, neighbourhood centres, and after-school care programs, to see the positive impact they are having with young people developing digital and computational thinking skills.  Let's talk about the wealth of free resources available to anyone to run a Code Club, where an inclusive and safe environment creates a space to learn coding.  Learn about the coding projects that provide differentiation, share dream time stories, and encourage endless creativity and innovation.  Take away some free resources and share the ones that you like to use.

10.45 – 11.15am

Telling Your Stories Australia, brought to you by Educulture LTD

Local Voices, Lasting Learning: Telling, Creating and Teaching Through Stories

Where the human superpower of storytelling meets the possibilities of cutting-edge technology. Telling Your Stories is a collaborative, place-based initiative that brings together schools, Indigenous communities, teachers, students, and families to embed cultural and linguistic heritage into literacy learning. Through the co-creation of authentic local narratives, this project weaves storytelling into teaching practice in powerful and practical ways. Please join us for an inspiring conversation and idea sharing.

12.45 – 1.15pm

Writing Boost

From Hype to High-Impact: Leading Safe, Smart AI Adoption

Lighten workloads, turbo-charge feedback—without sending data offshore. In this 30-minute round-table, school leaders and educators unpack the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), trade quick wins already working in Aussie classrooms, and leave with a privacy-first AI checklist to keep kids’ data safe.

1.45 – 2.15pm

Chess Mates

Learning Chess through storytelling

This program is aimed to help educators learn how Chess Mates run classes in schools. Our aim is to help you teach students how to play chess, ideally for prep - Year 2. Come along and challenge us to a game!

2.30 – 3.00pm

Blurred Minds

Decoding Big Tobacco: A collaborative dive into the influence of vaping and nicotine pouches on youth

Join us for a hands-on roundtable discussion where we dig into how vaping and nicotine pouches are being cleverly marketed to young people. These products are designed to confuse, mislead, and hook a new generation—and schools are on the front line. Together, we will explore how to go beyond health facts and spark meaningful conversations that help students see through the smoke and mirrors. You will leave with fresh insights, classroom-ready strategies, and resources to strengthen your wellbeing programs. Bring your curiosity and your voice—this is a space to share, challenge, and collaborate.