The Power of Teachers in this Age of Agency

For too long, public conversations about school reform have been dominated by Reading and Maths scores, which have become the shorthand for school success. But the reality is far more complex and more human.

While literacy and numeracy are undeniably important, it’s pertinent to focus on the vital role our teachers play in sparking curiosity and nurturing young minds. These educators, while building strong relationships with their students, do more than just deliver content; they create classroom environments where students feel safe to express themselves- where curiosity is encouraged, and where connections and relationships are valued as much as academic results.

Renowned educationalist and University of Melbourne Professor, Pasi Sahlberg, describes this shift as a move from the “Age of Achievement” to the “Age of Agency.” The former placed heavy emphasis on rankings, data, and standardised testing to determine success. The latter is built on trust, autonomy, and collaboration - qualities that empower both teachers and learners.

In recognising that teachers are creative designers of learning, Sahlberg says “we need to trust them with the work they’re best placed to do - teaching first-class humans, not preparing second-class robots.”

It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply within our Primary School environment. Here, our teachers use their insight, experience, and empathy, along with well-backed research, to design programs that honour how boys learn best.