In this episode, Victoria gets honest, reflective, and a little bit fiery as she opens up about something close to her heart - the state of today's education system. After nearly two decades in education, across multiple roles and settings (classroom teacher, School of the Air, support roles, relief teaching, admin), Victoria shares how dramatically things have changed…and not always for the better. This episode explores: ✅ What's Really Going On in Schools * Why so many teachers are leaving the profession * Increasing admin, programs, assessments, and expectations * Classrooms feeling more like businesses than supportive learning environments * Stress and wellbeing impacts for both teachers and students ✅ The Cost of "More, More, More" * Less creativity, more ticking of boxes * Over-assessing instead of trusting trained educators * Behavioural challenges increasing - with minimal consequences * Teachers feeling unsupported, overwhelmed, and unprotected ✅ Where Parents Come In * Schools can't (and shouldn't) carry 100% of responsibility * The importance of emotional intelligence in the early years * Setting kids up with problem solving, empathy, resilience, and respect * Working with schools, not against them ✅ So…What Now? * The system needs change - but waiting for government may not help * Why alternative schooling is becoming more popular * Small, grassroots changes we can make to protect children and teachers * The importance of parents showing appreciation and partnership with educators Victoria shares openly from her experience - including what led her to move away from traditional classrooms toward mindfulness, emotional wellbeing, and real human skill-building for kids. ✨ If you're a teacher You are not alone. Your wellbeing matters just as much as the kids you support. Boundaries aren't selfish - they're essential. ✨ If you're a parent You are your child's first (and most important) teacher. Your behaviour sets the tone long before school does. ✅ Join the Conversation This episode may stir strong opinions - and that's okay. Victoria genuinely wants to hear from parents, teachers, and anyone impacted by the system: * What's working? * What isn't? * What would you change? * What support do teachers and students really need? Send a message, share your experience, or continue the discussion with respect and open minds. Thanks for listening — and if you loved this episode, please share it with a teacher, parent or school community leader who needs to hear it. 💛 Get in touch -  hello@victoria-r.com.au www.victoria-r.com.au @the.victoria.r