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AITSL Mail: April 2026

Strengthen your understanding of the Standards | Prepare for National Reconciliation Week | See how other teachers approach their classrooms
21 April 2026
News article
11m

A big welcome back to Term 2.

We hope you had a chance to rest and do the things that fill up your cup. For me lately, that included mountain biking. If you’re up for a quick brain break, and want to know what that’s taught me about life, in general, there’s a bit more on that at the end of this email.


This term is often the point where you can take what you’ve set up and really make it work for you and your learners. It’s also where a small shift or a fresh idea can go a long way.


We’ve pulled together a refreshed Grow in 2026 page with practical support to help you go deeper in your practice. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your understanding of the Standards, prepare for National Reconciliation Week, or see how other teachers approach their classrooms, there’s something there to support you.


Here’s to a great term ahead.





A few places to start

Jump into a few highlights from our Grow in 2026 page.

Newly released resources to support deeper understanding and practical use of the Australian Professional Standards for Middle Leaders in your day-to-day work.

In the Classroom videos

Step inside real classrooms with full lesson footage, teacher interviews and commentary. See how teachers bring differentiation, student engagement, inclusive teaching practices and feedback to life.

Classroom Management: Standards-aligned evidence-informed approaches

Effective classroom management is necessary for student learning; it enhances relationships between teachers and young people and promotes a positive learning environment, at the same time as increasing instruction time and maximising student engagement.

Early Childhood Education and the Teacher Standards

A podcast featuring AITSL’s Danny Pinchas, alongside practical guidance to support how the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers apply in early learning settings.

 


 

Looking ahead

With National Reconciliation Week (NRW) coming up, you’ll find resources to help you prepare and engage in meaningful ways with Aboriginal histories and living cultures. They also support your ongoing learning, with tools designed to strengthen culturally responsive practice throughout the year.

Brain break if you’ve got a few minutes💆

Speaking of growth, recently I focussed on my personal growth by learning to mountain bike. It’s a passion of my 13-year-old son, and something he’s been very keen for me to be involved in.

Now, I must start by saying that I am no athlete and my first attempts have been, quite frankly, intimidating!  The uneven terrain, the steep climbs, and the inevitable falls have left me battling frustration and doubt. ‘What if I can’t do it?’ ‘What if I’m just not good at this?’ ‘What if I break something?’.

That’s when I was reminded again of Carol Dweck’s research around a growth mindset; the belief that abilities can be more quickly developed through effort, persistence, and learning from mistakes. Each ride becomes less about avoiding failure and more about seeing progress: handling a tricky corner, climbing a little further before stopping, and eventually enjoying the ride rather than fearing it.

It struck me how closely this mirrors what is asked of teachers and school leaders, and our children and young people every day. You’re encouraged to take risks, to persist when it’s hard, and to see setbacks as opportunities to learn. It’s a mindset we try to carry into our work at AITSL too, in the way we support your practice.

Learning to mountain bike hasn’t just strengthened my legs; it has strengthened my perspective. Growth is never a straight path—it’s a winding trail, full of bumps and breakthroughs. And that’s exactly what makes it worthwhile!

Cheers,
Tim


What’s been filling your cup lately?

Whether it’s a new or well-established hobby, a small win in your practice, or a Grow in 2026 resource you’re keen to explore this term, we’d love to hear what’s resonating for you.

Get in touch at communications [at] aitsl.edu.au