The National Gathering 2026 – Building Our Capital Together
Radford College, ACT
There are moments that remind you why community matters.
Over two inspiring days on 4 & 5 June 2026 in Canberra, Executive Assistants from schools across Australia came together for The Gathering 2026 to explore what it means to Build Your Capital:The EA as Influencer. We arrived from different schools, states and experiences, but left connected by a shared purpose: to continue growing as trusted partners, influential leaders, and valued contributors within our school communities.
The energy in the room was extraordinary. There was generosity in every conversation, curiosity in every session, and a genuine willingness to learn from one another. Watching Executive Assistants share ideas, ask thoughtful questions, encourage colleagues, and build new professional relationships was a powerful reminder that growth is rarely achieved in isolation.
Our speakers challenged and inspired us in different ways.
Dr Briony Scott reminded us that while technology and artificial intelligence will continue to transform education, our greatest strength will always be the uniquely human qualities we bring to our work.
Kathy Dickson and Dr Paul Teys encouraged us to re-energise our roles by recognising our value, embracing our influence, and continuing to invest in our professional growth.
Our Principals' Panel, featuring Dr Briony Scott, Chris Bradbury, and Terrie Jones, offered valuable insights into what strong Executive Assistant–Senior Executive partnerships look like through the eyes of school leaders.
Katie York challenged us to think differently about technology and to build our digital capital in ways that create greater capacity, efficiency, and impact.
And Kristina Rivers inspired us with an extraordinary story of resilience, determination and innovation, reminding us that our greatest challenges often become our greatest contributions.
Events like these are only possible because of many people working together.
Thank you to our wonderful hosts at Radford College - Principal Mr Chris Bradbury, Monique Glavonjic and Blaithin Murphy for your warmth, hospitality and professionalism. We are incredibly grateful for the way you welcomed our community.
Thank you also to our Gold Sponsors, ANZUK Education Australia, and RollCall Safety Solutions. Your support enables opportunities for Executive Assistants to connect, learn and grow together.
To the schools and organisations that invest in the professional learning of their Executive Assistants, thank you. Your commitment demonstrates that leadership development extends beyond the classroom and recognises the important contribution professional staff make to school success.
Finally, to every member of the EAs in Education community who joined us in Canberra - thank you!
Never underestimate the value you bring to your school community. Through your leadership, relationships, judgement, and daily actions, you create capacity, strengthen culture, build trust, and make a lasting difference to the lives of students, staff, and families.
Thank you for being part of this journey.
Together, we are building something truly special.
