Today on Around the School Table (xuno.com.au/podcasts), host Steve Davis is joined by James Thomas, Managing Director of Digital Education Partnerships Indonesia (DEPI) (depi.co.id). DEPI helps international edtech companies build trust and traction across Indonesia’s vast school landscape. It’s a market shaped by scale, complexity, and relationships.

Early in the conversation, James breaks down what makes Indonesia unique. There are tens of millions of students and hundreds of thousands of schools. However, size is only one factor. Just as important is how schools communicate, buy, and implement systems.

Next, the episode digs into a common assumption about “international schools”. Many people expect mature operations. Yet the reality can be mixed. James shares research across SPK schools (SPK stands for Satuan Pendidikan Kerja Sama, which translates to “Cooperative Education Unit.” These are Indonesian private schools officially licensed to deliver an international curriculum). While many use an LMS for learning, fewer rely on a dedicated school management system. As a result, critical workflows can remain manual.

Importantly, James clarifies the difference between an LMS, an SMS, and an SIS layer. An LMS supports teaching and learning workflows. Meanwhile, an SMS runs operations like attendance, wellbeing, parent communication, events, and payments. Then, an SIS layer can connect systems without forcing a full replacement. Consequently, schools can reduce fragmentation and improve workflow reliability.

Finance and payments emerge as a major pressure point. Schools often manage complex fee logic in spreadsheets. Unfortunately, one small change can trigger errors. In addition, many schools still depend on WhatsApp for parent communication. Because messages arrive constantly, teacher wellbeing can be impacted.

The episode also explores safeguarding and reporting. James explains Indonesia’s TPPK mandate (TPPK stands for Tim Pencegahan dan Penanganan Kekerasan, which translates to Team for the Prevention and Handling of Violence) and why structured incident recording matters. Moreover, he shares why many rollouts fail. They’re treated as IT installs, not organisational change. Instead, James recommends phased implementation, clear ownership, and realistic priorities.

If you’re a school leader reviewing systems, this episode offers a practical playbook. You’ll hear how to identify operational headaches, reduce risk, and build resilient school operations.

Powered by: xuno.com.au.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jim Meskimen is the voice behind hundreds of beloved characters, and has a career most voice actors could only dream of! He chats with Rach and Eddie about his fascinating career, the power of observation, and his tips on how students can grow their skills.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andre Casson joins Around the School Table (xuno.com.au/podcasts) for an audio conversation with host Steve Davis. Andre is the Headmaster of Brisbane Boys’ College (bbc.qld.edu.au), and he brings a science teacher’s lens to leadership. Moreover, his experience spans Australia, the UK, and international schools in Asia.

Firstly, Andre reflects on preparation and opportunity. He shares how unexpected doors can open in education. However, he also explains why readiness matters most. In addition, he encourages teachers to embrace growth and cultural learning when working abroad.

The discussion then turns to boys’ learning and school design. Andre explains why many boys need movement to think well. Therefore, learning spaces at Brisbane Boys’ College are designed for collaboration and flexibility. For example, breakout areas support group work and active tasks. He also shares a simple lesson on states of matter, using physical movement to build understanding.

Importantly, Andre highlights the value of sport and physical activity. Brisbane Boys’ College continues physical education into Years 11 and 12. As a result, students keep building teamwork, resilience, and self-control. Meanwhile, co-curricular programs create more ways to belong and thrive.

Relationships sit at the centre of Andre’s approach. He explains why authenticity matters with boys. Additionally, he outlines how staff are supported to build trust beyond the classroom. That includes coaching, presence, and everyday interest in students’ lives.

The episode also explores inclusivity and respectful relationships. Andre describes a clear, structured curriculum that teaches consent and safe behaviours from the early years. Furthermore, he explains how culture is shaped through consistent modelling and correction.

Finally, Andre breaks down the 6:1 positive-to-negative feedback ratio. He links it to research and daily practice. In particular, he shares how positive calls home can reinforce character. Over time, this approach supports “gentlemen of honour” through decency, accountability, and healthy vulnerability.

Powered by: xuno.com.au.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.