Matt's leadership path: PE teacher to assistant principal

Matt’s teaching journey 

After more than 25 years in education, Matt Cook has transitioned from coaching kids on the soccer field to leading teaching and learning as an assistant principal. Along the way, the Academy’s professional learning programs played a key role in building his confidence, networks, and leadership skills.

In this case study, we explore how Matt leveraged Academy programs to grow as an educator and prepare for the next step in his career.

'It's very important as a teacher, that we teach kids to learn, but we also need to continue to learn and upskill ourselves...'

Matt's career pathway

1. Specialist teacher (PE/IC/Relief)
2. Classroom teacher
3. Leading teacher of assessment
4. Assistant principal, learning and teaching

Growing into leadership

Like many teachers, Matt began his career passionate about seeing students develop their skills and confidence. 

Over time, he was drawn toward leadership, but he admits the transition wasn’t easy. 

'To be honest, I lacked a bit of confidence. I was at a very small school with limited leadership support and I really wanted to connect with other teachers who were in the same position as me.'

The challenge was not only stepping into leadership roles, but also learning how to lead others effectively, manage difficult conversations, and stay up to date with changing teaching models such as literacy and numeracy reforms.

Professional learning with the Academy

Matt turned to the Academy to build the skills and networks he needed such as:

Create: Middle Leaders – building leadership foundations

The Create: Middle Leaders program introduced him to project-based leadership and helped him grow in his first leading teacher role.

Connect: Assistant Principals – confidence and networks

The Connect: Assistant Principal program expanded his professional network, boosted his confidence and gave him tools to lead staff.

Leading Quality Conversations – handling difficult conversations

The Leading Quality Conversations program taught Matt practical strategies for handling difficult conversations with colleagues.

Victorian Aspiring Principal Assessment (VAPA) – preparing for principalship

VAPA prepared him for the next step in his career pathway.

Literacy and Numeracy programs – staying aligned with reforms

Literacy and Numeracy programs provided Matt the latest information and recommended teaching methods Matt needed to stay up to date with teaching research and reforms like the Victorian Teaching and Learning Model (VTLM 2.0). 

'Each program gave me something different — from questioning techniques and mapping out conversations, to building real networks with other leaders. Those connections have been just as valuable as the content.'

Confidence, networks and career progression

Participation in Academy programs has transformed Matt’s leadership journey through:

• Improved leadership confidence – practical strategies to support staff and handle challenges.
• Career growth – progressed from classroom teacher to leading teacher, then assistant principal with responsibility for teaching and learning.
• Expanded professional networks – connecting with other leaders gave him new ideas, including approaches to wellbeing and inclusion for neurodiverse students.
• Mentoring impact – Matt now supports colleagues by coaching, modelling strategies, and encouraging them to pursue their own professional learning.

'I think it’s really important that as teachers we keep learning, not just for ourselves but as a model for our students. I’ve made it my goal to do some learning every year.'

Key takeaways for teachers and leaders

• Be open and vulnerable: Growth happens when you share your experiences and step outside your comfort zone.
• Build your networks: Connections with other leaders provide fresh ideas and support.
• Start before you feel ready: There’s never a perfect time to take on professional learning.
• Keep learning every year: Model lifelong learning for both colleagues and students.

Why professional learning matters

Matt’s story shows how Academy programs can help teachers grow into confident leaders, equipped with the skills and networks needed to face today’s challenges in education.

Whether you’re an emerging leader, assistant principal or classroom teacher wanting to expand your impact, the Academy provides professional learning opportunities to help you take the next step.

Get more Academy Alumni success stories like Matt’s below.

Ready to take the next step in your teaching career?

Start your leadership journey today. Explore our upcoming career pathway programs:

Career pathways for teachers and leaders