Transforming education: conference examines system transformation, leadership and student support

ACER Chief Executive Professor Geoff Masters, who will present a keynote address at the conference, says the systems designed to support and promote learning must change fundamentally so that learners can succeed.

‘We know that large proportions of students currently fail to achieve acceptable levels of literacy and numeracy,’ Professor Masters says.

‘All components of learning systems – including curricula, teaching approaches, assessment and student support – must work together to create equitable and inclusive learning conditions.’

The first day of the conference will begin with the overarching theme of system transformation, examining how educational systems can shape their components to enable practices that align with their vision for students. Sessions will cover setting strategic priorities and directions, sharing best practices in leading transformative efforts, and exploring effective stakeholder engagement methods. Attendees will gain insights from impactful system leaders, learning practical strategies for application to their contexts.

The latter part of the first day will delve into the critical roles of leadership and teaching in achieving the system’s vision for student outcomes. Sessions will focus on how to support teachers’ work, emphasising the alignment of these efforts across the career span with broader system components. Discussions will cover a range of national and international perspectives, including First Nations voices.

The second day focuses on curriculum, teaching and assessment, as well as the conditions necessary for effective student support. The morning sessions will highlight innovations in what, when and how students learn, and approaches to monitor and enhance student outcomes. These sessions will include an emphasis on the use of artificial intelligence to support teaching and learning.  

In the afternoon, discussions will shift to exploring broader learning conditions, including equity and inclusion, engagement and wellbeing, integrated support services, and strong school-community partnerships. The final session will focus on the importance of aligning educational goals with societal and parental aspirations and integrating school-level efforts with broader system initiatives.

Professor Pauline Taylor-Guy, ACER Research Director, School and System Improvement, said: ‘We are really looking forward to the opportunity for deep dialogue between leaders at every level of an education system, researchers and practitioners, that the conference will provide.

'We have brought together an impressive, diverse range of keynote speakers and session chairs in a format that will encourage interaction, networking and knowledge sharing.’

Research Conference 2025 will be a pivotal event for those dedicated to transforming education systems. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the complexities involved and practical strategies to drive meaningful change in their contexts.

Research Conference 2025 will take place at RACV Club Melbourne from 6 to 7 February. To find out more or to register, visit www.researchconference.com.au