S2:E4 Will Davis - Leading with Joy and Purpose

In this episode of Conversations with Courageous Educators, host Luke George speaks with Will Davis, the founding Principal of Oakwood Primary School, about his journey from the UK to Australia and the creation of a school that prioritizes joy in learning.

Will shares his insights on building a positive school culture, recruiting passionate educators, and implementing the Fish Philosophy to create a supportive and engaging environment. He also discusses Oakwood’s unique classroom setups, which balance explicit instruction with intentional play, and the importance of leadership and consistency in driving educational success.

With a deep commitment to student and staff well-being, Will provides valuable advice for aspiring educators, emphasizing the dedication and passion needed to thrive in the profession. Tune in to hear his inspiring story and practical strategies for shaping a vibrant and effective learning community.

To watch the full episode on YouTube, follow this link: https://youtu.be/m30MEPzYRqY 

Click here to take the free 2-minute Mental Fitness Quiz

Chapters

• 0:06 Introduction to Oakwood Primary school
• 2:30 Journey from UK to Australia
• 6:47 Founding Oakwood Primary School
• 8:47 The First Year Experience
• 11:32 Recruitment Philosophy and Culture
• 15:10 The Fish Philosophy in Education
• 20:15 Classroom Environment and Learning Strategies
• 23:33 Classroom Setup and Student Engagement
• 28:24 Leadership and Team Dynamics
• 31:13 Consistency and Clarity in Education
• 34:10 Advice for Future Educators