
Most of these teachers were primary teachers and one was a secondary teacher. The primary teachers in the group included the amazing Brett Salakas, Zeina Chalich, Maggie Mattson and Rob McTaggart and the lone secondary teacher was me. Each of us were passionate about effective pedagogy and ensuring that teachers have access to solid professional development experiences, no matter where they lived.
From this evening sprung the weekly Twitter chat. Each Sunday night, from 8.30pm (AEST), teachers 'chat' about a topic that is relevant to educators worldwide. The chat is led by a host (and sometimes with special guest co-hosts) who poses a series of questions. These questions were then answered by those taking part and deep conversation usually follows.
Since 2014, #aussieED has grown into one of the most popular education chats in Australia (and if I'm honest, it's probably up there worldwide as well). By being involved, I have been able to develop a global PLN of educators - some of who I have been lucky to meet in person and will be showcased in upcoming Feature Fridays! Along with the online chats, the team also put together a series of 'live events' for teachers to attend, including TeachMeets, mini-conferences and an afternoon at the Easter Show in Sydney!
Due to my recent change in roles I will admit I have not been as active in these chats as I have in the past. Brett and Zeina have done a stellar job in ensuring that the #aussieED name is still in the forefront of people's minds when they think of education in Australia. Both of them have blossomed into phenomenal educators, doing AMAZING things in their respective fields and I am blessed to call them both friends.
If you have not explored the #aussieED hashtag, visit Twitter and have a look. The hashtag is now filled with tweets that are posted around the clock. It is a place of ongoing discussion and sharing, no longer just pigeon-holed to the original 8.30pm time slot.