We continue the yarn with Dharawal Elder from the La Perouse community, Uncle Shayne Williams.

In part 2 of this two part series, Armani, Jasmine, Kyla and Mikaela discuss the collection of spears that were taken from Botany Bay in 1770 and the importance of keeping stories and traditions alive.

Uncle Shayne has spent many years teaching about indigenous language, culture, history and Country.

We thank Uncle Shayne for his time given to share his story with our First-Nation students.

We sincerely hope you enjoy this meaningful episode of the Kirrawee Public School Podcast.

Today we have a yarn with Dharawal Elder from the La Perouse community, Uncle Shayne Williams.

Uncle Shayne has spent many years teaching about indigenous language, culture, history and Country.

In part one of this episode, we join Armani, Jasmine, Kyla and Mikaela and hear about his life growing up on a Reserve Mission and his role as an indigenous elder.

This episode continues to part 2, where the team discusses the collection of spears that were taken from Botany Bay in 1770 and the importance of keeping stories and traditions alive.

Join Ava and Sophie A for another episode of The Kirrawee Public School Podcast!

On today's episode, the team have a informative chat to celebrated picture book creator — author and illustrator, Marc Martin!

You might know Marc from some of his books, like, We Are Starlings, A River, Max, Lots, and The Curious Explorers Illustrated Guide to Exotic Animals.

Marc is known for his stunning watercolour artwork and books that capture the beauty of nature, imagination, and the world around us. So grab your art journal and those watercolours and enjoy this episode from the Kirrawee team!

***Note for educators, click ⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠ for the free classroom activity document for this episode***

In this episode of the Kirrawee Public School podcast, hosts Ava and Archie interview Helen Dallimore, an accomplished actor and debut author.

Helen shares insights into her career transition from acting to writing and discusses her debut novel, 'The Hits and Misses of Melody Moss.'

The conversation covers her experiences in theatre and television, the challenges of writing, why 'bad guy' roles are so much fun and the inspiration behind her book. Helen also reflects on resilience in the arts and offers advice for aspiring creatives.

As always, look out for more engaging and educational conversations from the students and staff of Kirrawee Public School.

***Note for educators, click ⁠HERE⁠ for the free classroom activity document for this episode***

Welcome to another student-led episode from our author series and what a remarkable name we have in store today.

Our two Sophies were honoured to chat with the classic children's author, Pamela Allen.

You'll know Pamela from her classic picture books such as Mr McGee, Alexander's Outing, Who Sank the Boat and Belinda.

At 91 years, Pamela joyfully reflects on her career, the joy of storytelling, and the legacy of her work, including the exhibition of her books at the State Library of New South Wales. The conversation highlights her unique approach to children's literature, blending visual art and sound to engage young readers.

Once again, stay tuned for more engaging and educational conversations from the students and staff of Kirrawee Public School.

***Note for educators, click HERE for the free classroom activity document for this episode***

What a laugh this podcast was to make!

Welcome to our second podcast of Term 4, 2025 and what a cracker of a conversation do we have for you!

You'll know Nat's books from titles such as 'Secrets of a Schoolyard Millionaire', 'The Power of Positive Pranking', 'The Right Way to Rock', and 'We Run Tomorrow'. 

We definitely know Nat's books aren't AI generated! Why? Because someone this funny and engaging MUST write her own books which are just as funny and engaging as she is.

Join Archie and Ava as they ask Nat about her author beginnings, her endless amount of cool jobs and, of course, the writing process.

We have no doubt you'll love this giggly conversation from one of Australia's most engaging children's authors!

Once again, stay tuned for more conversations from the students and staff of Kirrawee Public School.

***Note for educators, click ⁠HERE ⁠for the free classroom activity document for this episode***

Welcome back to Term 4!

What a way to begin the term with Kaito, Sophie A and Sophie J asking the big questions to the Secretary of the NSW Department of Education, Murat Dizdar.

Mr Dizdar was kind to take time out of his busy schedule and share a conversation with our students about his upbringing, the importance of hard work and the value of public education.

We hope you enjoy this warm conversation as much as we did putting it together.

Stay tuned for more conversations from the students and staff of Kirrawee Public School.

For educators, here is the complimentary lesson plan filled with comprehension questions and extension activities.

Welcome to a special teacher-led Father's Day episode!

Joining staff member David Mahoney and our Principal, Cameron Campbell, is fatherhood facilitator and educator, Jason Seeman.

Jason brings more than a decade of transformative experience to the world of parenting.

Jason is Head of Schools, at the Rites of Passage Institute, based in Byron Bay, Australia and also the  founder of Raising Fathers which supports men to become grounded, connected, and present for themselves and their families through transformative educational experiences.

Topics on the table include;

• the role of the father/father-figure, 
• the positive effect fathering can have on the child
• the childhood to adulthood transition stage
• what are 'Rite of Passage’
• support tools available for parents

This episode is another way Kirrawee Public School aims to foster deep, meaningful relationships and connections with our community.

We hope you enjoy the episode.

In this informative student-led episode, Kaito, Sophie J, and Josh speak to the talented Queensland-based author, Josephine Moon!

Josephine Moon has published ten books for adults and most recently launched ‘The Puppy Project’, her second book in her children’s series – Millie and Stella, Best Friends Forever.

Josephine talks about how she started as an author, never giving up, bird watching, autism, positivity and of course, her books!

Once again, we hope you enjoy this episode as much as we enjoyed creating it.

As always, stay tuned for more student-led discussions from the talented students of Kirrawee Public School!

Is my child ready for school?

In this teacher-led episode, Assistant Principal, Mel Oostdam chats with school psychologist, Donna Roberts on the popular topic of school readiness.

Towards the end of each school year, our school, like all primary schools, receives regular enquiries from parents wondering if their child is ready to begin kindergarten.

So, Kirrawee Public School thought it would be helpful to gather some information, which might be of benefit to some families who might still be deciding about whether to send their child to school in the coming year. 

We hope you find the discussion here helpful, and if you do have further queries, please contact our school.