The Voice of Education Free Agency Podcast

Episode 4: This Is My Story
Featuring Tim Arnold

"From the paddocks to the boardrooms... from hard lessons to lasting leadership... this is the podcast where every conversation is earned, not given."

Welcome to The Voice of Education, the leadership podcast that explores the people, stories and moments that shape great leaders.

I'm Tim Arnold, and in this episode, Matt Borg turned the microphone around and interviewed me!

This is my story.

The journey from growing up in the Australian bush to leading businesses, building communities, and discovering that the greatest lessons in leadership aren't found in textbook, they're found through experience.

We'll talk about the wins, the setbacks, the people who shaped me, and the values that continue to guide everything I do.

Because leadership isn't about titles.

It's about influence.

It's about character.

And above all...

It's earned, not given.

Welcome. Let's get started.

On this episode we are joined by one of Australia's rising BMX talents - Bella May
Take a listen as Bella takes us on a journey of education background as a promising athlete.
A great insight into the different educational settings and how they play a part in forming / supporting our young future world champions.

🎙️ Free Agency Education – The Voice of Education | New Episode

In this special episode, we shine a spotlight on our growing partnership with Padraig Pearses GAC and celebrate the strength, culture, and contribution of the Irish community within education and the broader community.

We explore the shared values between schools and community sporting clubs — connection, belonging, wellbeing, and opportunity — and how partnerships like this help create positive pathways for young people both in and out of the classroom.

This episode is also a warm invitation to come along and be part of the action at the Pearses 7s Tournament on Sunday, 22nd February — a fantastic day of Gaelic football, community connection, and celebration.

🎙️ Real voices. Real stories. Real impact.
 Tune in now to The Voice of Education.

Welcome back to 2026. Update from directors and a bushfire update from Tim. Also hear from GM Robyn! A big podcasting season ahead!

Welcome to Wirrigirri Primary School  — the official voice of a truly remarkable learning community in the heart of Wollert, in Melbourne’s northern suburbs.

Today, we’re joined by two visionary leaders who are helping reshape what modern education can look like: Principal Bec Spink and Assistant Principal Toby Russo. 
Together, they’re leading Wirrigirri with a bold commitment to innovation, well being, and a deep sense of community.

At Wirrigirri, the school day feels different — and intentionally so. There are no school lunchboxes. Instead, children enjoy nutritious, chef-prepared meals every day, coming together in a shared dining experience that builds connection, strengthens relationships, and ensures every student is nourished and ready to learn.

There are no wet weather timetables, no “rain rules,” and no traditional school bells dictating movement. Instead, learning flows with purpose and calm, guided by trust, professional judgement, and thoughtful routines that support students’ independence.

Beck and Toby have also led a complete transformation in staff recruitment, attracting educators who are aligned with Wirrigirri’s values and deeply committed to meaningful teaching practice. Their approach has become a model for how schools can recruit not simply for roles — but for culture, purpose, and passion.

Across the campus, wonderful things are happening every single day. From empowered learners and connected families to innovative curriculum design and a whole-child philosophy that puts wellbeing at the centre — Wirrigirri is proving what is possible when leadership, community, and creativity come together.

So settle in, and get ready for an inspiring conversation with Beck Spin and Toby Russo, as we explore the incredible things taking place at Wirrigirri Primary School — where learning is shared, community is strong, and education is being reimagined for the future.

Michael McLean, Principal of Kerrimuir Primary School in Box Hill North, was named Outstanding Primary Principal of the Year 2025 in recognition of his exceptional leadership and deep commitment to student success. Leading a richly diverse community where more than 70% of students come from non-English-speaking backgrounds, Michael has united families, staff, and learners around shared school values and high expectations for learning and wellbeing. His focus on inclusive pathways and lifting outcomes for every child—especially those at risk of being left behind—has helped shape a school culture that is both ambitious and deeply caring. 

We were genuinely honoured to be part of this podcast, sharing in his story and giving space to the thoughtful, people-first approach he brings to education. His award is a well-deserved celebration of a leader who continues to inspire meaningful change for students, staff, and the wider community

Talking education with some people who love it most! Our HQ Team. Some insights into whats to come for remainder of 2025 ad starting 2026! Also they put Director Tim on the spot for a laugh and some questions about him!

Parkville College, inside Victoria's Youth Justice facility. Were you aware of the work going on to support young people? We delve into the relationships and work going on to support youth who make mistakes and find themselves on the wrong side of the law. Education continues and is supported by a dedicated team at Parkville College. A great listen and insight.

INCREDIBLE chat with Bev May and Kim Ancrum, walked away from this so proud to share their story and hear their leadership and heart on show at Brighton Beach Primary School. Inspiring leaders in and great to shine a light on the great things happening in education at Bright Beach Primary School!

David Tapp has worked at a range of schools, from inner suburbs to the fringe of Melbourne and down the Peninsula. Now finding his home at Beaumaris Primary. A school he is wanting to push to be number 1 in the state! Grand plans ahead at Beaumaris and some huge improvements happening around the school site! Listen in to David's journey.