The Positive Education Podcast With Ash Manuel

Episode #57 | Matt Pitman – Connection Is the Curriculum: Leading with People at the Centre

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In this episode with Matt Pitman, we dive into the transformative power of connection in schools, what it really means, how it can be intentionally built, and why it’s essential for students, staff, and families. Matt shares practical strategies and leadership insights drawn from his experience as a head of school and author of The Connection Curriculum.

6 Key Takeaways

  • Connection isn’t a buzzword, it’s a framework.
    Matt outlines connection as a journey of relationships, belonging, and meaning, and shows how schools can intentionally support all three.
  • Human-first leadership matters more than ever.
    In a world focused on tech and outcomes, Matt reminds us that the person in the middle. The student, staff, or parent, must remain the focus.
  • Face-to-face interaction is underrated.
    Emails and calls have their place, but real connection comes from shared space, especially when working with families.
  • Leaders build connection by asking, not telling.
    Rather than providing quick answers, great leaders coach staff through reflection, helping them grow their own confidence and solutions.
  • Culture is created through the small things.
    From knowing a student’s weekend plans to welcoming parents at events, genuine connection grows through consistent, human moments.
  • You can sense connection when it’s there.
    While it’s not always easy to measure, signs of connection show up everywhere, in staff morale, student engagement, alumni returning, and parent relationships.

    • More About Matt Pitman

    Matt Pitman is the Head of Senior School at Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs, a Catholic secondary school in the western suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria, and the author of The Connection Curriculum published by Amba Press. An experienced educational leader and a doctoral candidate researching connections across school communities, Matt’s experience is varied, from the leadership of curriculum teams and programs to student wellbeing, student improvement and community engagement portfolios. He has led Positive Education and student support programs and has a passion for working with students, parents, and staff to develop new understandings of the needs of young people in the 21st century.

    Website:: mattpitman.com.au
    Linkedin Matt Pitman
    Book:The Connection Curriculum

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    The Positive Education Podcast With Ash ManuelBy Ash Manuel