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On Saturday 30 May, Music in Me mentors from across Western Australia gathered in Perth for a dynamic professional learning conference, bringing together experienced and emerging mentors for a day of connection, reflection, and shared learning.

Held at Victoria Park Primary School, the conference featured a full program of workshops, discussions, and collaborative activity, all focused on strengthening mentoring practice and building momentum across the WA program.

Sydney-based Music in Me colleagues Louise Barkl and Bernie Heard joined the conference virtually to lead the opening session, focusing on high-quality mentoring practice. The session explored practical approaches to goal setting, providing constructive feedback, and using Music in Me tools to support teacher growth.

This opening set a clear and purposeful tone, prompting mentors to reflect on their own approach and consider how consistent, high-quality mentoring can support teacher confidence and student outcomes.

Locally led, state-wide expertise

The remainder of the day was led by WA Lead Mentor Mandy Herriman, whose facilitation ensured the learning remained grounded in the realities of classrooms across the state.

Mentors had travelled significant distances to attend, highlighting both the reach of the program and the strength of commitment within the WA network. Participants joined from across the state, including Kalumburu in the far north, Port Hedland in the Pilbara, and Albany on the south coast — a powerful reflection of the scale of Western Australia and a shared dedication to improving music education in every context.

“The most energising aspect of the day was the passion with which our mentors approach not just their own teaching but their mentoring role. This deep-seated passion for teaching music and teachers from our mentors is the best advocacy for music education for all children. Our diverse contexts does not diminish our common purpose – access to quality music experiences for all children.”
— Mandy Herriman, WA Lead Mentor

Learning from practice

A key feature of the conference was the opportunity for mentors to share insights from their work in schools. Conversations reflected the wide range of settings mentors are working in, from metropolitan classrooms to regional and remote communities, and the importance of adapting approaches to meet local needs.

These peer exchanges enabled mentors to test ideas, share strategies, and learn from one another’s experiences — leaving with practical approaches they could immediately apply in their work.

Mentors sharing ideas and strategies for the music classroom.

Strengthening connection across distance

Beyond the formal sessions, the conference played an important role in strengthening relationships across the WA mentor network. Time was dedicated to building connections and exploring ways to stay engaged beyond in-person events, including ongoing online collaboration.

In a state as geographically dispersed as Western Australia, these connections are essential — ensuring mentors feel supported, connected, and part of a broader professional community.

Looking ahead

The energy generated throughout the day reflects a growing momentum for Music in Me in Western Australia. As the program continues to explore opportunities to expand mentoring into regional and remote communities, the importance of well-supported, highly skilled mentors remains central.

The WA Mentor Conference demonstrated the value of creating space for mentors to come together — not only to build capability, but to strengthen relationships and reaffirm a shared commitment to high-quality music education.

Mentors returned to their schools energised, connected, and equipped with practical strategies to support teachers and students — from the most remote communities to metropolitan Perth classrooms.

The event was expertly coordinated by WA Coordinator Jackie Ewers, whose planning and on-the-ground support ensured a seamless experience for all participants.