Book Ben Sacco for your next event

Creating the conditions for quality teaching, engaged learning and whole school wellbeing.

Profile

As Managing Director of Education Economy, a national education consultancy, Ben’s work focuses on education policy, system leadership, school culture and student behaviour. Much of his practice is grounded in neuroscience, child development and psychology, translating research into practical strategies that support educators and learners in real-world settings.

Over more than twenty years, Ben has worked across classroom teaching, school leadership, system leadership, higher education, government, community services, education policy, implementation and independent education consultancy. This breadth of experience enables him to connect the realities of classrooms with system leadership, public policy and organisational improvement.

Ben is the author of Disruption in Schools: Understand Me Before You Mark Me! and three children's books: There's a Spider in My Tummy, There's a Buzzing Bee in My Head and Hey Dad, the Story of Curious Scarlett.

His work has been featured in the Herald Sun, ABC Radio, 9 News, The Point, EducationHQ and across national and international podcasts, contributing to conversations about evidence-informed education policy and practice.

Ben believes evidence has its greatest impact when it is translated into practice. Ben works alongside schools, organisations and governments to bridge the gap between research, policy and practice, helping strengthen leadership, culture, behaviour and organisational capability.

Expertise

Talking Points

Leading With Purpose

Leading with purpose is a life-changing journey for leaders at all levels. In a fast-paced world, it's essential to have a clear sense of purpose that guides your actions and decisions. Leading with purpose is about aligning our values and goals with those we serve.

In this keynote, Ben will explore how purpose-driven leadership can help you create a culture of collaboration, innovation, and meaningful impact.

He'll examine the importance of empathy, authenticity, and vision in shaping your leadership style and developing your team's capacity to achieve shared goals. By the end of this session, you'll be equipped with practical strategies and insights to lead with purpose and inspire positive change in your organisation.

Strengthening Communication Through Neuroscience

In a rapidly evolving world, effective communication is a cornerstone of success in personal and professional relationships. In this session, we offer a unique and enlightening opportunity to explore the fascinating intersection of brain science and communication strategies.

The session is designed to support individuals with a deeper understanding of the neurological underpinnings of human communication. Participants will delve into sub-themes such as; the role of empathy, body language, navigating challenging conversations and unpacking some of the psychology behind how the brain works in reactive and responsive situations. All of which will be supported by practical strategies to support daily leadership practice.

People Matter: understanding work and life impacts

People are at the heart of every organisation, and the interplay between work and life can have a significant impact on employee health, wellbeing and performance.

In this keynote, Ben will explore the importance of recognising that people matter, and that work and life are interconnected.

He'll discuss practical strategies for combatting health and wellbeing decline and reduction in productivity and employee engagement. Audiences will learn how to create an approach that enables them to navigate the uncertainties they encounter in the workplace and in life.

Creating a Culture of Trust, Transparency and Accountability

The most successful organisations are those that create an atmosphere of trust, transparency and accountability. With a deep commitment to these principles, organisations can create an environment for employees to be engaged and empowered to respond rapidly to identified needs, give ideas that are heard and feel valued in the process.

In this keynote, Ben explores how leaders can foster an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, ideas and concerns and every effort is made to increase workforce productivity.

Empowering Innovation and Collaboration

In a rapidly evolving world, traditional hierarchical structures struggle to keep up with the pace of change. It's time to embrace a new paradigm that empowers individuals and teams to drive transformative progress.

In this key note, Ben will delve into the power of decentralisation as a catalyst for change. He'll explore how distributing decision-making authority and fostering a culture of autonomy can unlock the full potential of organisations, unleashing innovation and driving meaningful results.

Drawing from real-world examples and case studies, Ben will demonstrate how decentralised processes can revolutionise industries and drive bottom-up change. Discover how empowering individuals at all levels of an organisation can lead to increased employee engagement, ownership, and growth.

The Flower Grows from the Ground Up: collectively shaping an education for today

In this keynote, principals will explore the critical role of collective leadership in shaping the future of education. Grounded in the idea that ‘the flower grows from the ground up,’ this session will highlight how meaningful change starts with strong foundations, built through collaboration, trust, and shared purpose among school leaders, teachers, students, and the wider community. Drawing on themes of growth, advocacy, and influence, the session will provide practical insights on how principals can lead grassroots innovation, advocate for equitable resources, and influence educational policy to create sustainable impact. This keynote is designed for school principals and leaders who are committed to leading school communities that not only grow but bloom into thriving communities of learning.