Building a School Community with Purpose | Legacy Collective with Clay McCann

24/07/2025 30 min
Building a School Community with Purpose | Legacy Collective with Clay McCann

Listen "Building a School Community with Purpose | Legacy Collective with Clay McCann"

Episode Synopsis

In this powerful episode of The Legacy Collective, we sit down with Clay McCann, the founding Principal of Gainsborough State School, to talk about the heart behind building a school from the ground up — not just in bricks and mortar, but in culture, connection, and community.



Clay shares his passion for creating a space where kids love to learn, families feel part of something bigger, and every person — parent, teacher, or child — is treated with dignity and respect.

With high standards and a big vision, Clay walks us through what it really takes to lead a school that puts people first.



If you're a parent, educator or P&C member who cares about creating lasting impact in your school, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.



🎧 Subscribe to the Legacy Collective for more real conversations with the people shaping stronger school communities across Australia.

https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-legacy-collective/id1800062638



🔗 Learn more about School Fun Run and how we support amazing leaders like Clay at https://www.schoolfundraising.com.au/fun-run-podcasts

schoolfundraising.com.au



00:45 Clay's influence on his pupils

07:35 Positive school culture

10:35 Lessons learned from being a foundation principal

15:04 Clay's favorite teacher: Mr Pitt

18:55 Leadership strategy

21:25 School culture

25:55 More than just a job!

27:29 Does Clay recommend a teaching career?

29:45 Final thoughts