Deb Simpson

I have been in Education for 20 years and have a passion for providing wellbeing and success to young people in our schools. I believe every child deserves a safe place where they feel they belong, and I have seen firsthand how Lego can play a powerful role in creating that sense of calm and security. Lego is not just a toy—it is an inexpensive, accessible tool that can support preventative mental health strategies and help students build confidence, connection and resilience.

A pivotal moment came when I sat down with a young person experiencing trauma. As we quietly built a Lego model together, I witnessed a visible shift in their state of mind—a moment of calm amidst chaos. This experience led me to explore Lego therapy in depth, delve into models from around the world and discover how it is being used as part of Social Emotional Learning programs to promote student wellbeing.

I have worked across different states as a teacher, beginning in the classroom and later moving into specialist roles that reflect my two passions: technology and inclusion. In Central Australia, I co-founded the Central Australian STEAM Network for educators, bringing together professionals from diverse contexts once per term to share ideas and resources. I have organised and chaired committees to run Lego-based competitions such as Robocup Junior Australia and First Lego League, creating opportunities for students to engage in technology, problem-solving and friendship.

Through the fellowship, I hope to learn from school districts that have implemented Lego therapy as a district-wide Social Emotional Learning program. My goal is to bring this preventative, strengths-based approach to students across Central Australia and the Northern Territory, and to develop a model that could be adopted nationally—ensuring we provide the very best for our young people.