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HALT Accreditation | Season 3 Episode 8
What Chris Learned on the Path to Highly Accomplished Lead Teacher

Thinking about taking your teaching career to a distinguished new level? Curious about the Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher (HALT) accreditation process in Australia?

In this compelling episode of The Educational Currency Podcast, our very own Chris Kalodikis shares his fresh and candid experience of recently becoming a Highly Accomplished Teacher. Still beaming from the achievement, Chris takes us deep into what challenges of the HALT accreditation process (in NSW, through NESA). Whether you're actively preparing for HALT accreditation, are on the fence about applying, or simply want to understand more about this pinnacle of professional teaching standards in Australia, Chris's journey provides a wealth of practical advice, honest reflections, and genuine encouragement.

Press play to find out:

• The What, Why & Rewards of HALT: Chris explains the Australian Professional Standards for Teacher Levels and the core HALT goals: recognising excellence, enhancing teaching's status, retaining talent, and improving education. Chris shares his personal drive for undertaking HALT —namely seeking broader professional recognition, career advancement (and the significant new financial incentives).


• Navigating the New Streamlined HALT Process: The path to HALT accreditation has evolved! Chris details the latest NESA-driven changes (late-2024), making the process more accessible. Learn about structuring evidence sets and the external assessor site visit.Importantly, Chris covers what’s been removed, like the formal need for referees (though collaboration is key!) and the HALT maintenance report, as well as, simplifying long-term upkeep.


• HALT Realities, Timelines & Insider Tips: Chris offers a realistic look at the journey, sharing his 2.5-year experience under the old system and suggesting the new streamlined approach could take about a year, with proper preparation. He discusses who’s best suited—often those with 10+ years of proficient experience or in middle leadership—and stresses demonstrating impact on both students and colleagues. Chris offers practical advice on gathering evidence and understanding the current landscape; namely, that with relatively few HALT teachers in NSW, NESA is keen to see more educators pursue this rewarding pathway.

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Robert Naumoski and Christopher Kalodikis have over 20 years of teaching experience. Chris teaches Computing and is the founder of Maximum Education. Rob teaches Mathematics and is the founder of The Coaching College and owner of Ultimate Defence Academy. Kate Pentecost has worked in museums for over 12 years across collection management, digital outreach and collections, and curatorial. She is also an English tutor at the Coaching College and is the producer of The Educational Currency Podcast.

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