Episode #47 | Gavin McCormack – Connection Before Curriculum: Teaching That Changes Lives​

In this episode with Gavin McCormack, we explore his journey from struggling student to global education leader, and how one teacher’s belief changed everything. Gavin shares insights on connection-based teaching, the power of modelling behaviour, and how his platform UpSchool is helping students create real-world impact through purposeful, project-based learning.

Key takeaways:

• From Struggling Student to Global Change-maker – Gavin’s personal story shows the life-changing power of belief and support.
• Teaching the Brain, Not Just the Student – How neuroscience reveals that connection must come before curriculum.
• UpSchool in Action – Students planting forests, building bird sanctuaries, and solving real-world problems through learning.
• Raising Resilient Children – A sneak peek into Gavin’s new book and the 7 key steps to help kids thrive.
• Why What You Model Matters – Practical insights into how teachers and parents shape student behaviour by simply being human.
• Plus much more…

More About Gavin
Gavin McCormack is a co-founder of Upschool.co, a platform that empowers students to learn entrepreneurship skills that have real impact. With more than 20 years of experience as a Montessori-trained educator, he has taught in multiple countries and developed a passion for innovative educational practices. Gavin is the Montessori Australia Ambassador, a TEDx speaker, and the best-selling author of children’s books and a guide for parents on Montessori education. He has built schools, libraries, and teacher training centres in Nepal and has been recognised as one of the top ten most influential global educators from 2019 to 2024 and recently won the Outstanding Global Contribution to Education Award for 2024 at the GESS Awards in Dubai.

Website: upschool.co
LInkedin: Gavin McCormack
Gavin’s Book: Raising Resilient Children: Pre Order Here

Take the Your Schools Wellbeing Scorecard
Join the Wellbeing Wizard Waitlist