Monday 22 September 2025
Transform Your Classroom with
Discover the future of education at the Auckland Google Summit! Thanks to the generous sponsorship from Google Australia, we can offer this one-day event FREE-of-Charge so we can showcase how Google for Education, Gemini, Google’s Generative Artificial Intelligence, and other great tools continue to revolutionise teaching and learning in 2025.
Inspiring Keynote
Eric CurtsControl Alt Achieve
‘Level Up Every Learner with AI’
Keynote address
Eric’s keynote will highlight the positive ways AI can support students and introduce strategies to personalise their learning journeys.
Join us to explore how these advancements shape our roles and empower us as educators.
Hands On Sessions
Access over 30 sessionsand hands on learning
experiences
Hands On Sessions
Immerse yourself in interactive hands-on sessions. Gain invaluable insights and first-hand knowledge about the latest amazing Google Workspace tools. Learn alongside experience classroom teachers sharing practical examples that you can immediately implement in your own teaching.
Gemini Education
Leverage the power orGemini in your classroom
Gemini Education
Gemini is an AI-powered assistant that can help you save time, create captivating learning experiences, and inspire fresh ideas – all in a private and secure environment.
Community
Grow your learningcommunity
Grow your community
Elevate your teaching practice, develop your skills, and connect you with a community of like-minded educators who share your passion. This event is designed to equip you with the tools, ideas and resources to make a lasting impact on the lives of young learners.
THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS
We are always looking for companies that are a good fit for our events.
If you would like to connect with our attendees and promote your product or service, email us at events@deploylearning.com.
Don’t miss this opportunity to make learning fun and elevate your teaching practice.
FREE TICKETS
The generous sponsorship of Google with support from Texthelp make this event free for educators.
Keynote Speaker
Experience world-class presentations by passionate and engaging speakers, including Google Certified Educators, Trainers, and Innovators. We also are excited to have the team from Google for Education Australia join us for this event.
Join us as we kick off the day with a inspirational, thought provoking
and actionable keynote from Eric Curts.
Eric Curts
Control Alt Achieve
Eric Curts
Control Alt Achieve
Location :
Ohio, USA
Organisation :
Control Alt Achieve
Description :
Eric has been in education for 33 years, and currently serves as a Technology Integration Specialist for SPARCC in North Canton, Ohio. He also provides keynotes, professional development, and consulting for schools, organizations, and conferences around the world. Eric’s areas of expertise include artificial intelligence, Google tools, assistive tech, and creative ways to use technology in teaching and learning. He is an authorized Google Education Trainer and Innovator, and co-leads the Ohio Google Educator Group. Eric runs the award-winning blog www.ControlAltAchieve.com where all of his edtech resources can be found, and is the author of the book “Control Alt Achieve: Rebooting Your Classroom with Creative Google Projects”.
Website:
www.ControlAltAchieve.com
Attend workshops by a few of our favourite leaders in the Google Workspace
and Australian edtech space.
More speakers announced soon!
Steve Smith
Google for Education
Steve Smith
Google for Education
Location :
New Zealand
Organisation :
Google for Education
Description :
Steve was previously a High School Social Studies and Geography teacher for 16 years in New Zealand after returning from teaching in London for 2 years.
Steve worked to bring Google for Education to his school and along with a colleague trained the staff in the use of Google for education. He has been a passionate advocate for the use of Google Tools since the early 2000s at different workshops and events across New Zealand
He is a level 1 and 2 certified educator and Trainer and in 2019 was a member of the Sydney 2019 Innovator academy looking at how we can cater for the needs of a school’s more innovative students. He is a member of the Google Earth Education Experts group where he gets to show people the awesome Geo tools that Google has.
Steve is based in Google’s Auckland office as New Zealand Lead, Google for Education and his aim is to continue to energise the educator communities in New Zealand, support our Partners and bring more Google goodness to the Education community of New Zealand
Social:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-smith-81816493/
Jim Sill
Deploy Learning
Jim Sill
Deploy Learning
Location :
Melbourne, Victoria
Organisation :
Deploy Learning
Description :
Jim Sill is a former high school teacher who enjoys a great story and loves inspiring people to tell theirs. Using his industry experience, he created an award-winning video production program in California, USA. By involving students in real-world video projects, they garnered awards and recognition at the local, state and national levels. His passion for creating authentic learning experiences for students and teachers has led him to work with teachers on all seven continents. Today, Jim lives outside of Melbourne on the traditional lands of the Wurrunjeri people and works with schools across Australia and New Zealand to support the adoption of technology to support teaching and learning.
Social:
https://www.instagram.com/deploylearning
Monica Isabel Martinez
mPower Professional Learning
Monica Isabel Martinez
mPower Professional Learning
Location :
Austin, Texas
Organisation :
Google
Description :
Monica Isabel Martinez is an educator, graphic designer and photographer. She has been in the educational technology field for over 25 years, working in the US, Canada, LATAM, EMEA, and APAC regions. Monica is currently the EDU Content Manager for Google, overseeing the Teacher Center.
Throughout her career, she’s presented at conferences all over the world, has led edtech events, helped train teachers on the integration of tech, and has helped lead efforts for a more equitable and anti-racist world.
Monica has a master’s degree in Educational Technology and is also a Google Certified Innovator, Google Education Trainer, GEG Leader in Texas, and a Design Thinking Coach for the Google Innovator program.
Social:
https://www.instagram.com/monicaisabelmtz//
Phil Carew
Toorak College
Phil Carew
Toorak College
Location :
Melbourne, Victoria
Organisation :
Toorak College
Description :
Phil is the Head of Digital Learning & Innovation and a passionate educator at Toorak College in Victoria. He empowers teachers and students to use technology effectively to enhance teaching and learning. Phil is a Google Certified Innovator, Trainer and he leads the Mornington Peninsula Google Educator Group.
Beyond his role at Toorak College, Phil collaborates with the Deploy Learning team to develop engaging online courses, workshops, and educational content. His experience includes contributions to significant events like the Google Innovator Academy in Seoul, Google Champions Symposium in Sydney, and EduTech in Melbourne.
Social:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-carew/
Luke Starczak
Department for Education, South Australia
Luke Starczak
Department for Education, South Australia
Location :
South Australia
Organisation :
Department for Education, SA
Description :
Luke Starczak is a passionate Google Champion, Digital Coach, and Chemistry educator based in South Australia.
Luke empowers teachers to strategically implement digital tools that amplify learning environments.
A Google Certified Innovator from the inaugural virtual cohort, Luke is deeply invested in innovative learning design and maximizing digital tools to create opportunities for both teachers and students. He has a passion for developing learning activities that foster the transfer of understanding to new contexts and are represented in ways that reduce barriers to learning for all students.
Luke’s dedication extends beyond the classroom, as he actively shares his expertise to help others discover the transformative potential of technology in education and beyond.
Social:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-starczak-b521b8112/
Donna Golightly
Kristin School
Donna Golightly
Kristin School
Location :
New Zealand
Organisation :
Kristin School
Description :
With over 40 years in education, Donna remains a passionate learner, dedicated to helping others integrate technology creatively and authentically. She’s a Google Certified Trainer and Innovator, an Apple Professional Learning Specialist and Coach, and a cognitive coach.
Donna has empowered countless educators in New Zealand and internationally to confidently use digital tools. Currently, she’s a lead digital coach and Year 6 teacher at a large independent school in Auckland. She regularly shares engaging digital integration ideas for primary years and streamlines administrative workflows with technology, always prioritising wellbeing in her practice.
Social:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-golightly-b33230239/
Chris Betcher
Crux Learning
Chris Betcher
Crux Learning
Location :
Sydney, NSW
Organisation :
Crux Learning
Description :
Chris Betcher started out as an art teacher, but his fascination with the educational potential of digital tools led him to explore computing, graphics, design, and multimedia. He’s passionate about using technology to enhance teaching and learning, and loves helping teachers and students discover the creative possibilities of digital technology. He’s also been a regular presenter at education conferences worldwide.
Over the past decade or so, as a Google Certified Innovator and Trainer, Chris has been providing professional development for educators on Google for Education tools, including 6 years on the Google for Education team. Currently, he takes on select projects through his own business, Crux Learning. Chris has produced podcasts, written books and articles about education, and occasionally blogs at chrisbetcher.com. He’s always curious, asks lots of questions, and loves making interesting things out of 0s and 1s and, lately, also from wood.
Social/Website:
https://www.chrisbetcher.com/
Jeremy Ferguson
Kōwhai Intermediate School
Jeremy Ferguson
Kōwhai Intermediate School
Location :
New Zealand
Organisation :
Kōwhai Intermediate School
Description :
Jeremy’s background is in Primary and Intermediate education, and the delivery of Professional Development and Learning in more recent times. He currently works as a Digital Learning Specialist at Kōwhai Intermediate School and was instrumental in the school achieving Google for Education Reference School status in late 2024. Jeremy is a Google for Education Certified Trainer and Certified Coach. He has worked previously with Manaiakalani Education Trust as a facilitator, and has worked for other organisations delivering Professional Development as a Ministry-accredited provider. He also works independently as a consultant providing support and guidance to schools across New Zealand.
Social:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyrferguson/
Rachel Duckworth
EDITS
Rachel Duckworth
EDITS
Location :
New Zealand
Organisation :
EDITS
Description :
With a rich career in teaching and leadership, Rachel’s passion lies at the intersection of pedagogy and technology. She empowers fellow educators to create more engaging, efficient, and inspiring learning experiences.
Fostering a mindset of innovation, Rachel shows colleagues not just how to use digital tools, but why. A catalyst for change, her approach is grounded in practical classroom application, driving meaningful progress while always prioritising student engagement and teacher wellbeing. She doesn’t just introduce tools; she equips staff and students with the curiosity and skills to thrive in the digital age.
Social:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-duckworth-nz/
Andrew Corney
Liger Leadership Academy
Andrew Corney
Liger Leadership Academy
Location :
New Zealand
Organisation :
Liger Leadership Academy
Description :
I have been a teacher since 2000 and taught in a diverse range of schools including 9 years teaching overseas. I’m now Deputy Principal at Liger Leadership Academy in stunning Queenstown, New Zealand. I’m a huge believer in fostering authentic learning by immersing students in real-world challenges, using a project-based approach that is enriched by insights from experts. I’m particularly fascinated by the potential of Artificial Intelligence and am actively investigating its purposeful use to enhance student outcomes. As a Google Certified Innovator & Trainer, and former Specialist Classroom Teacher, I love exploring ‘what’s next’ in education and sharing those discoveries.
Social:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-corney-04451564/
Matt Goodwin
Manaiakalani Education Trust
Matt Goodwin
Manaiakalani Education Trust
Location :
New Zealand
Organisation :
Manaiakalani Education Trust
Description :
Matt is the Projects Manager and a PLD Facilitator for the Manaiakalani Programme, leading initiatives like Class OnAir and the Innovative Teacher Programme. As a Google Certified Trainer and Innovator, he supports teachers to confidently use digital tools and design learning that’s purposeful, creative, and student-centred.
Social:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-goodwin-936a6598/
Rachel Coathup
Everway (formerly Texthelp)
Rachel Coathup
Everway (formerly Texthelp)
Location :
Brisbane, Australia
Organisation :
Customer Success Director, Everway (formerly Texthelp)
Description :
Rachel has a passion for supporting educators to use technology to enhance teaching and learning. As Customer Success Director she works with schools, colleges and universities delivering training and support in using EdTech. Prior to this, she was a Primary Teacher for 6 years in public and private sectors (AU and UK). She is also an ISTE Certified Educator, Google Certified Trainer and Innovator.
Social:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-coathup/
Aaron Overington
Everway (formerly Texthelp)
Aaron Overington
Everway (formerly Texthelp)
Location :
New Zealand
Organisation :
Strategic Education Lead – Aotearoa
Description :
Aaron brings 35 years of IT management experience across a wide range of industries. Over the past 15 years, he has focused on the disability and education sectors — helping individuals access the right technology to communicate effectively and supporting kaiako and ākonga to achieve stronger learning outcomes.
Before joining Everway, Aaron was the K-12 Education Strategist for one of Aotearoa’s largest managed service providers, working closely with classroom teachers and education leaders across the motu to drive positive change in teaching and learning.
Social:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronoverington/
Location
Albany Senior High School
536 Albany Highway, Albany, Auckland 0632
Albany Senior High School, situated in Albany, Auckland, offers a dedicated senior secondary education emphasising student success and future pathways. The school provides a tailored curriculum and a variety of co-curricular opportunities aimed at developing capable and engaged young adults. With a strong focus on individual development and support, Albany Senior High School is committed to providing a dynamic and empowering learning experience for its students.
Air Travel & Transportation
Albany Senior High School is conveniently accessible from Auckland Airport (AKL). Driving to the school takes approximately 25 to 40 minutes. Taxi and ride-share services provide direct transportation options. Alternatively, public transport connections are available, with travel times varying between 1 to 1.5 hours.
Driving and Parking Information
Albany Senior High School provides on-site parking for visitors, although spaces can be limited, especially during busy periods. Additionally, street parking is available in the adjacent local streets. Please ensure you observe all posted parking restrictions and time limits in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect? I have not been to a Summit before
This Summit featuring Google for Education is a one-day conference focusing on the use of technology to advance student learning, collaboration and productivity in the classroom. The Summit is designed for classroom teachers, school leadership and anyone interested in learning how technology can be used to enhance student engagement, teacher efficiency, and digital-age learning.
With fast-developing, generative Artifical Intelligence (AI) tools popping up everywhere, the Summit will offer sessions focusing on how you can make the most AI in education. Join our experienced featured speakers who are on hand to guide you through the process of using AI to improve your teaching and learning. Whether your are new to AI or have experience with it already, our AI sessions will help you have a better understanding of how and when to use this new and exciting tool.
This one-day event features a keynote presentation in the morning. We are excited to feature a workshop lab filled with Chromebooks that attendees can use in sessions designed with the device in mind. The Summit will be full of informative breakouts, future-focused demonstrations, and hands-on workshops led by experienced and knowledgeable professional developers, current classroom teachers and employees of Google (aka Googlers).
Will lunch and refreshments be provided?
Yes, Deploy Learning will provide coffee and tea on arrival, plus morning tea and lunch. We will work with caterers to provide options for a variety of dietary needs. We absorb this cost so it is important to not claim a ticket unless you know you will go.
How do I register for this event?
You can save your spot quickly and easily using the registration form. On the menu bar above click Register and complete the steps. You can also access the event registration using this link.
What topics are covered in the workshops?
Sessions include a keynote presentation, a closing demo slam competition plus a day full of informative breakouts, cutting-edge demonstrations, and hands-on workshops led by experienced and knowledgeable professional developers. Session topics may include a variety of…
- Generative Artificial Intelligence.
- Innovation in Technology
- Google Vids & Digital Storytelling
- Enhancing literacy teaching with technology
- Google Classroom
- Making Data Meaningful
- Screencasting and Chromebooks
- Latest AI apps for Instruction
- Presentation Design
- Digital Technologies Curriculum
- Connecting beyond the classroom
And so much more!
How long are the sessions?
We like to allow about an hour for every workshop session to immerse ourselves in learning something new and getting hands on time to explore and experiment. We aim to run 4 blocks of sessions.
As we get closer to the event you will receive confirmation about the timings and workshop sessions. You can also find timings and other information in the Schedule tab.
Do I have to select which sessions I am attending?
We do not track attendance for the workshops and there is no need to indicate which sessions you are attending. It helps if you have a plan before you arrive so you can reflect on which sessions are likely to be the most helpful for your learning and the community you support.
What devices or equipment do I need to bring?
You should bring a fully charged laptop to get the most from the hands-on workshop sessions. This can be a Mac, PC or a Chromebook. Pretty much anything with a web browser.
Yes, attendees have the opportunity to receive five Professional development TQI hours. Be sure to sign in when checking into the event in the morning.
Where can I get a certificate of attendance?
At the end of the event, we will share a Google Form with everyone in attendance. It will allow you to request a certificate and also share feedback on your experience.
Do you have a letter or some information I can share with my leadership team?
We have prepared the following letter for your use in generating support from your school or district leadership to attend this Summit. Please feel free to customise the letter to help “make the case” for your attendance. Make a Copy in Google Docs
Who can I contact if I have any other questions?
Feel free to email us at events@deploylearning.com with your questions.
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