What Folk Say…
Andrea Hennessy - Assistant Principal, Fitzroy Primary School
“Simon’s work with our staff made a real and lasting impact, particularly in the way he opened up writing as a space for creativity, play, and genuine student voice.
Teachers consistently commented on how energising his sessions were - not just because of the practical strategies he shared, but because he gave them permission to think differently about writing. He helped teachers see that creativity isn’t an add‑on; it’s a doorway into deeper engagement and stronger outcomes.
For students, the flow‑on effect was immediate.
They became more willing to take risks, experiment with ideas, and see themselves as writers with something worth saying. The structures and approaches Simon introduced created a sense of freedom within the writing process that many of our students hadn’t experienced before.”
“Discussions have already started with what and how we can incorporate some of the things from today'“
Teacher
“These are fun activities, and planning for engagement by modulating these ideas into areas specific for our teaching areas will be really interesting.”
Teacher
“Simon has been very inspiring and fun. It has been great thinking outside of the box and gaining new and engaging ideas.”
Teacher
“Each time I leave feeling inspired and wanting to share my learning with our students.”
Teacher
“Simon’s energy is infectious and he’s highly engaging! I wish to borrow elements of his energy and instruction for my own teaching toolkit, he’s definitely inspired me personally and as an educator.”
Teacher
“I really enjoyed the PL and the ideas that were shared around. You can tell staff are engaged.”
Primary School Leadership
Shelly Scarbrough - Assistant Principal, Glengala Primary School
“Simon has had an immediate impact on our teachers' practice.
He facilitates engaging professional learning, where teachers are able to develop their knowledge and skill in creative writing. He is responsive to where our starting point as a school is and is able to adapt to our constraints and needs.
Simon provides the frames and structures to anchor our teachers' knowledge and ideas, creating sequential learning experiences for our students.
Simon's joy and excitement for writing is contagious. He creates a safe environment for our teachers and support staff are able to take risks. This risk-taking in writing has filtered down to our most reluctant students.”
Jen Thompson - Broadmeadows Valley PS Teacher
“Simon has provided a super comprehensive program which has been inspiring for myself and my colleagues. I am super excited to jump in to using a writer’s notebook with my students.”
“Love the ideas you provide to take directly into the classroom context.”
Teacher
“Very inspiring with new ideas to bring to life.”
Teacher
“Had a great time, very informative!”
Teacher
“As an ES I am grateful to have been part of this PD - ideas for us to use was helpful.”
Teacher