Real Schools of Thought with Adam Voigt

In this solo episode Adam opens up the real story behind RP2.0 and the deep influence Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have had on his teaching, leadership and restorative approach. He traces the three knowledge bases that shape the model affect theory, social and organisational psychology and the wisdom gifted to him through First Nations educators, elders and families.

Adam shares personal stories from his early teaching in Alikarung and from his time learning alongside leaders like Yalmay and Mandawuy Yunupingu including the powerful metaphor of “tilting the earth” and the reminder that some kids will still walk uphill. He explores why language is the first domain of school culture how shame works as a reintegrating force in Aboriginal communities and why these ideas align so strongly with restorative practice in modern schools.

This is a grounded generous conversation about culture, belonging and the responsibility educators hold in shaping the environments young people grow within. Adam offers a rare look behind the curtain at where RP2.0 really comes from why it works and what it asks of us as teachers and leaders today.

Interested in our work?
Learn more about Real Schools here.
Attend one of our upcoming workshops in-person or online. Register here.
Check out our Student Behaviour PhD.
Enquire about Adam Voigt's speaking engagements here.
Get your copy of Adam's book Restoring Teaching here (It's FREE for all teachers in Australia)

In this episode, Tina King shares her journey from a classroom teacher to a leader in education, discussing the challenges and opportunities within the education system. She emphasises the importance of leadership, collegiality, and the need for systemic support to meet complex student needs.

Rita Pearson TED Talk that Tina referred to - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFnMTHhKdkw

Interested in our work?
1. Learn more about Real Schools here.
2. Attend one of our upcoming workshops in-person or online? Register here.
3. Check out our Student Behaviour PhD.
4. Enquire about Adam Voigt's speaking engagements here.
5. Get your copy of Adam's book Restoring Teaching here (It's FREE for all teachers in Australia)

Adam Voigt is joined by Matt Kenny, Principal of Dodges Ferry Primary School, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, culture, and what helps schools thrive. Together, they explore the power of relationships, the importance of staff wellbeing, and why consistency and unity in leadership matter more than ever. The episode reflects on how educators grow over time, how behaviour can be better understood, and how schools can stay focused on what truly matters despite growing pressures. It’s a grounded, hopeful discussion about leading with clarity, care, and purpose.

Interested in our work?
Learn more about Real Schools here.
Attend one of our upcoming workshops in-person or online? Register here.
Check out our Student Behaviour PhD.
Enquire about Adam Voigt's speaking engagements here.
Get your copy of Adam's book Restoring Teaching here (It's FREE for all teachers in Australia)

In this solo episode of Real Schools of Thought, Adam Voigt shares the deeply personal story behind the creation of Real Schools. For the first time, Adam traces the formative experiences, pivotal moments, and hard leadership lessons that shaped his philosophy on education, culture, and 'RP2.0'.

Interested in our work?
Learn more about Real Schools here.
Attend one of our upcoming workshops in-person or online. Register here.
Check out our Student Behaviour PhD.
Enquire about Adam Voigt's speaking engagements here.
Get your copy of Adam's book Restoring Teaching here (It's FREE for all teachers in Australia).

In this episode of Real Schools of Thought, we sit down with Nick Dodd, the principal of Clarence High School, to explore his impactful leadership journey. Under Nick's guidance, the school has seen remarkable improvements in student engagement, attendance, and performance. Notably, suspension rates have dropped by 50% in just the first year, and the school achieved its best NAPLAN results ever. Nick shares his insights on the importance of community involvement and innovative teaching methods. He also discusses the role of technology in modern education and the impact of personalised learning on student success. Looking ahead, Nick outlines his future goals for further academic excellence at Clarence High.

Interested in our work?
Learn more about Real Schools here.
Attend one of our upcoming workshops in-person or online? Register here.
Check out our Student Behaviour PhD.
Enquire about Adam Voigt's speaking engagements here.
Get your copy of Adam's book Restoring Teaching here (It's FREE for all teachers in Australia)