About Us

Liana McCurry

Maths Teaching Expert and Leader in Evidence-Based Education

Liana McCurry is a dedicated primary school educator and leader, passionate about improving student outcomes in mathematics. Recognised for her evidence-based approach, Liana has been instrumental in supporting teachers to develop conceptual understanding and implement lesson structures and engagement norms that align with the Science of Mathematics.

Liana’s teaching is grounded in Explicit Instruction and a multisensory approach, ensuring success for all students through scaffolded steps (I Do, We Do, You Do) and interleaved practice. These strategies deepen understanding and help students make meaningful connections between mathematical concepts.

A recipient of multiple accolades, including Public Education SA’s Primary School Teacher of the Year (2021), Liana has shared her expertise at conferences and professional learning events, equipping educators with practical, research-based strategies to drive measurable improvement in student achievement.

Through her completed Churchill Fellowship, Liana explored international best practices in mathematics education, focusing on what top PISA-performing countries are doing to achieve equity and excellence. Her published report, Equity and Excellence, highlights how these practices can be applied to improve outcomes, particularly for students living with learning difficulties. Liana’s insights aim to create inclusive learning environments where every child can succeed in mathematics.

Joining the team in April 2025

Leah Draper

Educator and Leader in Literacy Improvement

Leah Draper is a passionate educator and former Deputy Principal at Salisbury Primary School, South Australia. As part of the leadership team, Leah played a key role in driving significant literacy improvements by implementing explicit, systematic phonics instruction and aligning teaching practices with the Science of Learning.

Leah has been instrumental in showcasing Salisbury Primary’s literacy success through the school’s renowned three-day intensive Study Tours. Over the past four years, she has shared Salisbury’s journey, highlighting:

  • The ‘why’ and ‘how’ of literacy transformation and its impact on student success.

  • Effective whole-school screening, assessment, and data literacy practices to ensure no student slips through the gaps.

  • The teaching of the Big 6 of Reading, supported by comprehensive curriculum documents.

  • Observations of multisensory Wave 1 classroom practices and explicit instruction in action.

  • Leadership strategies that align teaching with the Science of Reading, fostering collaboration and continuous improvement through safe and supportive peer observation and planning protocols.

Leah’s commitment to evidence-based practices and her expertise in strategic leadership have inspired educators and leaders, empowering them to implement transformative literacy practices in their own schools.