EngagED 2025: A Day of Inspiration, Innovation and Connection

On Friday 21 November, LEA’s 2025 Regional Day Out, EngagED, brought together educators, designers, architects, and industry experts for a day of insight, inspiration, and exploration across Sydney | Gadigal Country.

Hosted by the NSW Chapter, the day began at Wenona School’s Independent Theatre, where our energetic MC Darren Cox set the tone for a morning of thought provoking keynotes, lively discussion, and reflection on the evolving role of learning environments in a rapidly changing world.....and was spot on about architects always wearing black (IYKYK).

Our heartfelt thanks go to the incredible keynote speakers Stephanie McConnell, Matthew Esterman, Georgina Blix, and Dr Stephen Harris - who shared their visionary approaches to learning, wellbeing, and the design of spaces that empower and engage students.

• Matthew and Stephanie explored how the increasing role of AI in students’ lives is reshaping expectations, learning approaches, and engagement. From questions about agency in a digital world to practical strategies for supporting resilience and curiosity, delegates were challenged to think differently about the intersections of technology, pedagogy, and human connection.
• Georgina Blix highlighted the importance of wellbeing in design, offering her Wellbeing Design Framework and demonstrating how spaces can nurture equity, engagement, and meaningful relationships.
• Dr Stephen Harris, who flew in from the other side of the world to be with us, inspired attendees with his global perspective on human centred, transdisciplinary learning ecosystems, reminding us that “flexibility isn’t a feature; it’s the operating system” and that every space should earn its keep in fostering creativity, connection, and purpose.

Following the morning session, delegates embarked on LEA’s signature learning environment tours, exploring eleven exceptional sites across seven tours.

From Cronulla High School’s transformed precincts to Darlington Public School, winner of the 2024 World Architecture Festival Building of the Year, and the iconic sandstone Quadrangle and Chau Chak Wing Museum, attendees experienced first hand how heritage and contemporary design can intersect to create inspiring, student-centred spaces.

The Athenaeum at Wenona, designed by Tonkin Zulaikha Greer, showcased an interdisciplinary, multi-level approach to learning, integrating STEM labs, sports, hospitality, and social spaces into a cohesive learning ecosystem.

2025 LEAD Awards winner Monte Sant’ Angelo Mercy College’s Scientia Terrace impressed with its flexible, technology rich learning spaces spanning five levels, connecting students to collaboration, innovation, and creative inquiry. Across all tours, delegates observed the power of design to support agency, engagement, and wellbeing in authentic learning environments.

We extend our sincere thanks to all tour locations and venues, including Wenona School and Monte Sant’ Angelo College, for generously opening their doors and sharing their spaces with delegates.

Our appreciation also goes to our generous sponsors, whose support made the day possible:

• Platinum Sponsor - aquaBUBBLER
• Gold Networking Sponsor - Tensile Design + Construct
• Silver Coffee Cart Sponsor - Office Line
• Bronze Learning Tour Sponsors - Woods Furniture, Decor Systems and V/S Furniture

Finally, a huge congratulations and thank you to the NSW Chapter organising committee, whose dedication, passion, and meticulous planning ensured EngagED 2025 was a seamless, energising, and impactful event.

From the thought provoking keynotes to the immersive tours and networking opportunities, the day celebrated the innovation, collaboration, and commitment that drive the evolution of learning environments.

EngagED 2025 reminded us all of the extraordinary potential of learning spaces to inspire, connect, and equip the next generation of learners. Through collaboration, creative design, and a focus on wellbeing and agency, we can continue to shape environments that foster curiosity, resilience, and human flourishing for students today and into the future.

Photos sourced from delegates, sponsors and the LEA team.