Dear Crew,
Our first edition of XP Unpacked celebrated the transformative power of our distinct educational model at XP Trust, connecting together stories of student and staff growth through Crew and Learning Expeditions with profound reflections from our professional learning journey at Jeff Tech High in San Diego. Through feature insights from our friend and advocate Ron Berger, student narratives on the life-changing impact of public Presentations of Learning, and reflections on the necessity of “doing the project first,” the articles collectively highlighted our culture of craftsmanship, purpose, and student agency. By showcasing everything from local community projects in Doncaster to international partnerships across the world, the publication reinforces the our commitment to creating a “Rebel Alliance” of educators who prioritise character, creativity, and the belief that all students are capable of producing beautiful, meaningful work.
The cover was an abstract from the Upper Key Stage Two Learning Expedition from Summer 2025 entitled, ‘Earth Shattering Events’ – a stunning example of beautiful work which can be still be found as a resource on the Magna Science Museum website showing how outward facing and purposeful our products can be and the positive impact they have on our community.
The first issue included articles from staff and students from across the Trust as well as contributions from key international partners like Ron Berger, Jeff Robin from the USA and Val Westwell and Mandi Dimitriadis from the Education Department of the South Australian Government. A digital copy of the magazine can be accessed from our website and hard copies are available to purchase from our online XP Shop. The magazine went around the world to Europe, Australia, Asia and the USA. It was a significant publication that showcased the positive impact XP is having to on our local and international community.
By showcasing everything from local community projects in Doncaster to international partnerships across the world, the publication reinforces the our commitment to creating a “Rebel Alliance” of educators who prioritise character, creativity, and the belief that all students are capable of producing beautiful, meaningful work.
I am now requesting submission of articles for our next edition of the magazine and encourage all staff and partners to elevate our significant and important work for both a local and also an international audience. The main focus of issue two will be on Learning Expeditions to celebrate our ‘Year of the Expedition’ but if you have another story you want to share, don’t hesitate to do so!
I’ve linked the guidance and deadlines for submission here.
And remember, this opportunity is open to all staff across our Trust: Admin staff, Comms, Teachers, Learning Coaches, and Leaders.
I can’t wait to receive your articles!!
Andy
