The move to evidence-based teaching in our Catholic schools: Annual Ann D Clark Lecture inspires teachers

Reposted from Catholic Outlook on 26 August 2025

Centred on the theme of evidence-based teaching, the 2025 Ann D Clark Lecture, held in honour of past Executive Director, Ann D Clark, was a powerful and thought-provoking event that brought together educators and stakeholders from across Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD).  

The lecture was delivered by Dr Jenny Donovan, inaugural Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO), who shared that the occasion held a special personal significance for her. 

“It is such an honour to be delivering this year’s Ann D Clark lecture. My mum would have been so proud. She taught in primary schools in the Diocese of Parramatta for many years,” said Dr Donovan. 

Dr Donovan’s address focused on how evidence-based research can drive meaningful improvements in teaching and learning across Australia. Dr Donovan, with her extensive academic background, discussed what education research reveals about how we learn and the teaching practices that best support this.  

Using real-time examples and audience participation, Dr Donovan used principles of cognitive science to demonstrate how teaching practices based on direct instruction, or explicit teaching, “are effective because they align with what is happening in our brains when we learn.” 

She also highlighted how evidence-based teaching can help address disadvantage and improve educational equity. 

“If education is the powerful lever that can change lives, evidence-based teaching hones that lever by ensuring every child gets access to teaching that delivers learning,” stated Dr Donovan.

Her address highlighted how research can empower teachers to make informed decisions that lead to long-term improvements in outcomes for all students. 

“When teachers use evidence-based practices, such as explicit instruction, formative assessment, and structured literacy, they give all students, especially the most vulnerable, the best chance to succeed,” Dr Donovan said. 

Dr Donovan’s powerful message struck a chord with the audience, composed of school and office staff from CSPD and its 80 schools across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains. Just days after the official launch of CSPD’s new system-wide approach to teaching and learning, Uplift, staff were heartened to hear the strategy endorsed by Dr Donovan and supported by strong evidence. 

“I commend Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese for its new strategic direction,” Dr Donovan said.

“To be delivered across your 80 schools, your approach has the potential to be truly transformative for your 43,000 students,” she declared. 

Michael Pate, Acting Executive General Manager – Learning Outcomes and Principal of Xavier Catholic College Llandilo, served as master of ceremonies for the evening which featured a moving Welcome to Country by Aunty Julie Clark-Jones, who set a reflective tone for the event.  

Aunty Julie emphasised the importance of community and a culturally holistic approach to First Nations education. Her heartfelt words resonated deeply with all present, setting the stage for a meaningful conversation on the future of education in Australia. 

Giving a short address before the commencement of the lecture, CSPD Chief Executive Officer Jack de Groot described the evening as an important opportunity to “reflect on who we are as Catholic educators in Western Sydney and to challenge who we want to be.”

The evening concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Melinda Breakspear, Assistant Principal of Marian Catholic College Kenthurst, who expressed deep appreciation for Dr Donovan’s presentation. 

“Dr Donovan, you have given us so many insights that will truly make a difference when we step foot into our schools tomorrow,” said Melinda.

“Tonight, we have all had the benefit of your expertise, encouragement, practical strategies and passion for the work of building the connection between research and classroom practice.” 

As always, the Ann D Clark Lecture served as a reminder of the enduring impact of Ann D Clark’s vision in the ongoing pursuit of excellence in learning and teaching. 

As Dr Donovan stated, “Ann D Clark understood, education does not just begin and end in school.”