This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. It is no longer the ‘technology era’ but the 'human era'. For the first time, anyone within
developed society has choices for every aspect of life. This provides freedom
and uncertainty. We need to prepare our children for a future where they must make choices
both for themselves and society’s expectations. There is an elephant in the classroom - its
called 'standardisation'.

As one of seven children growing up on a small farm on the outskirts of Sydney, Andrew was a busy (but undisciplined) student who always looked for the easiest way to do something. He left home before finishing school and immediately moved into the sales arena. His successful sales leadership career includes having a successful commercial furniture business. Seven years ago he began working as a consultant assisting large companies (& then schools) with process improvement and change management, using the physical space as a catalyst for effective human engagement.
Andrew is a passionate advocate for change, market disruption and economic effectiveness with the express intent that these things enable people to be all that they can be. He has more recently been working within the education sector to provide a better environment for student and teacher engagement. He has redesigned the education space & furnishings within individual schools, developed their strategies for change and observed the incredible positive effects of this on both student and teacher. He has also witnessed the misery caused by bureaucratic economic rationalism. Andrew believes that there is an urgent need for holistic change within the western industrial education system, not just for the benefit of our children but for our societies and our culture.
Andrew is currently completing his final subjects for an MBA at Macquarie Graduate School of Management, with distinctions in Organisational Behaviour and Change Management. He recently led a team of 3 other students to win PwC’s Strategic Management Competition. His recent study of 5 schools leading change has hardened his resolve for the education system to be overhauled.
When not arguing for change, Andrew relaxes with his lovely wife, beautiful daughters and their big black dog.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)