In this special end-of-year episode of the VPA Podcast, President Andrew Dalglish takes a moment to say thank you to principals and school leaders across Victoria for their dedication, leadership and commitment throughout 2025.

Andrew shares a Christmas message, wishing everyone a safe, restful and joyful holiday season, also welcoming a very special guest to say a few words.

The episode wraps up with a look back at 2025 — acknowledging the challenges, resulting growth and collective achievements of the profession — and turns the focus forward to what lies ahead in 2026, with optimism, purpose and continued advocacy for school leaders.

A heartfelt message of gratitude, reflection and hope to close out the year.

In this episode, we sit down with two of Wirrigirri Primary School’s driving forces — Principal Bec Spink and Assistant Principal Toby Russo — to explore the heart, culture, and direction of one of Victoria’s most exciting new schools.

Bec brings a wealth of leadership experience and a deep commitment to building a school where every child feels known, safe, and inspired. Toby adds a dynamic perspective on teaching, learning, and the systems that help great staff thrive. Together, they’re shaping Wirrigirri into a community-first school with a strong sense of identity, inclusion, and optimism.

We dive into:

• The story behind Wirrigirri Primary School — what makes it unique, how the school came to life, and the vision guiding its community.
• Their whole-school lunch program — why it matters, how it supports wellbeing, and the impact it’s already having on students.
• Hiring practices & building a high-performing staff team — what they look for in educators, how they foster belonging, and the kind of culture they’re building for years ahead.
• The bold “no wet weather days” approach — the philosophy behind it, the benefits for children, and what it means for play, resilience, and connection to Country.

This episode is packed with insight, energy, and genuine passion. We’re excited to share this conversation and spotlight the people and programs shaping Wirrigirri Primary School’s future.

Michael McLean is a very humble human, one who will sit on the leaf blower and always be seen greeting his families at the front gate. A unique story of leadership that started in business and progressed to being names as Winner of Outstanding Primary Principal of the year for 2025. Listen in to his journey and and the connection and engagement happening at Kerrimuir Primary School.

Relationships are at the heart of teaching, learning and community at Elwood Primary School, Nicole Richards was recognised as Finalist in the Outstanding Primary Principal of the year awards. Listen in as she talks about her school with passion and heart. Ari Peters also joins us, Assistant Principal and highly respected leader in her own right.

A Youth Justice Facility may not be where you expect to find hope and 'Unconditional Positive Regard', that is what we are shining a light on and have discovered. A school that's far from what's known to mainstream society and one that's doing unbelievable things to support young people on their journey when they find themselves on the wrong side of the law. Congrats to Parkville College on sharing with us and for all the work you do.

Welcome - Andrew Dalgleish introduces the VPA podcast - learn a bit about the association and the President. An informative chat about the education system, challenges, exciting times and the future of the association.