PLC SYDNEY RESEARCH PRESENTED ON GLOBAL STAGE

We are proud to share that our Director of Research, Dr Suzana Sukovic, recently presented PLC Sydney’s latest educational research at the prestigious International Academic Forum (IAFOR) conference, held at the Sorbonne in Paris.

This global event welcomed delegates from over 80 countries, providing a rich platform for collaborative dialogue on some of the most pressing issues in education today.

Dr Sukovic presenting PLC Sydney’s latest educational research at the International Academic Forum conference, held in Paris.

Dr Sukovic showcased two significant research projects conducted at PLC Sydney:

Artificial intelligence in schools

In collaboration with eight schools, universities, and members of the IT industry, this project explores how AI is shaping teaching and learning. Presented alongside colleagues from India and Mexico, the session sparked vibrant discussion about the role of AI in classrooms worldwide. AI remains a hot topic for educators across all contexts, with questions around ethical use, student agency and teacher preparedness taking centre stage.

Young people and substances

What do young people really think about alcohol, vaping, and drugs, and how do they want to learn about these issues? This research, conducted with Dr Tony Stojkovski, provides insight into youth perceptions and the kind of education they value around substance use. The project highlights the need for globally-informed, yet locally-relevant approaches to health education.

Reflecting on the conference, Dr Sukovic shared a key takeaway: the importance of connection and collaboration, and how our local experiences contribute meaningfully to global conversations.

The International Academic Forum conference was held at the Sorbonne in Paris.

Dr Sukovic also presented at the E-ROUTES International Conference: The Transformative Power of Travel , held in Golubac, Serbia. The event brought together researchers from diverse disciplines to examine how journeys, across places, cultures and ideas, can foster transformation.

At this conference, Dr Sukovic shared PLC Sydney’s reflective journaling project, co-authored with Lisa Tabuteau and Bhuva Narayan. Titled “From a Space to a Place: Enabling a Shared Experience of Sydney in a Girls' Boarding School through Reflective Journaling” , the research explores how students develop a sense of belonging through personal storytelling and reflection. Presenting this work in the country of her origin made the experience especially meaningful, underscoring the deeply personal and powerful nature of the project.

Dr Sukovic presenting PLC Sydney’s reflective journaling project at the E-ROUTES International Conference held in Golubac, Serbia.

At PLC Sydney, we are committed to future-focused, meaningful learning grounded in research , shaped by real-world relevance, and amplified through global engagement.

Congratulations to Dr Sukovic on representing our school and contributing to such vital international conversations.