Kalin Farrell-Gray of Cowra High School is locked in an intense battle of chess with Luke Wilson of Cowra Public School. Concentrating on boys and their different education needs is the motivation of a visit by Dr Lillico next week.
Schools around Cowra are preparing for the visit of world renowned expert in boys' psychology and teaching.
Dr Ian Lillico will be visiting the town this Thursday and Friday and host seminars for both children and teachers.
Principal of Mulyan Public School John Smith said Cowra will benefit greatly from Dr Lillico's visit.
"He [Dr Lillico] spreads a message that says boys' education is an important area," he said.
"We need to make sure that our boys are strong citizens, open minded and aware of the potential they possess."
Dr Lillico has researched boys' education since 1991 and has gained a great deal of insight into the issues facing boys today.
He is the founder and CEO of the Boys Forward Insitute and has a PhD in education.
Mr Smith said Dr Lillico was not just an academic, but also has practical experience as a principal at the City Beach High School in Perth.
"He has experience from the practical side of things as he was a principal over in Perth," Mr Smith said.
"Overall his message is very good."
Schools around the world have changed whole policies and practices in line with Dr Lillico's suggestions. Staff and parents are also seeing changes in the way that boys are engaging in learning.
His practical and hands on approach to issues such as bullying, curriculum delivery and behaviour management is being widely acclaimed by large numbers of staff as the best professional development they have ever attended.
Organiser of the visit, Carinya's Susan Callaghan, said she has spoken to people who have had massive benefits after working with Dr Lillico.
"One person told me the relationship they had with their son grew after being to a Lillico seminar," she said.
"They had a greater understanding of their son and the stages they were going through; why certain behaviours existed and how to support them through this."
Mr Smith was present at a conference Dr Lillico spoke at and said it was a great experience.
"I haven't seen him work with children yet, but I suppose they can expect to hear a message that tells boys what they do is important," he said.
"They can do anything they want to do, but they need to work hard to achieve what they want."
