S2:E7: Sally Mills – Growth, Grit and Great Teaching in the Early Years

In this episode of Conversations with Courageous Educators, Luke George sits down with Sally Mills—a passionate and purpose-driven teacher who, in just four years, has made an incredible impact in the classroom and beyond.

Starting as an overwhelmed graduate, Sally’s journey is one of growth, grit, and relentless pursuit of great teaching. Now thriving at Neerigen Brook Primary School, she shares how strong mentorship, high expectations, and a deep belief in the power of explicit instruction have shaped her professional path. Sally speaks candidly about her early challenges, the transformational role of the Center of Excellence initiative, and the routines and structures that help her students succeed every day.

From the inspiration of her pre-primary teacher Mrs. Chene to the support of leaders like Shakira, and her own parents’ influence, Sally’s story is a testament to the power of mentorship, mindset, and meaningful teaching.

Whether you’re a new graduate or a seasoned educator, Sally’s insights will leave you inspired to lead with heart, teach with clarity, and never stop learning.

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For more information about how By George can help your school please check out our website at www.by-george.com.au

To watch the full episode on YouTube, follow this link: https://youtu.be/-oY9hL7LJtM

Chapters

• 0:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
• 0:57 Sally Mills' Early Career and Inspiration
• 5:06 Goal Setting and Daily Routines
• 7:26 Embracing Leadership Opportunities
• 12:36 Center of Excellence Initiative
• 14:18 Explicit Teaching and Literacy Improvement
• 22:17 Student Behaviour and Engagement
• 22:29 Behavioral Improvements and Academic Success
• 24:06 Implementation Across the School
• 25:33 Planning and Resource Sharing
• 34:30 Teacher Collaboration and Consistency
• 37:38 Personal Influences and Teaching Philosophy
• 40:53 Advice for Aspiring Educators
• 41:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts