David Clingin is a primary school educator, emerging Teacher of the Deaf, and community leader with experience across education, disability inclusion, and organisational leadership. He is currently a teacher at Eastwood Primary School & Deaf Facility in Melbourne, where he works within both mainstream and specialist deaf education settings to support positive learning and wellbeing outcomes for children and families. David is currently completing a Master of Disability Studies at Macquarie University, a specialist qualification pathway for Teachers of the Deaf. Through his professional practice, postgraduate study, and lived experience, he has developed a strong commitment to advocacy, accessibility, and inclusive education. Prior to teaching, David worked within the corporate sector in leadership and executive team environments, contributing to strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, organisational decision-making, and program delivery. He brings a collaborative leadership style, strong communication skills, and experience working within multidisciplinary teams and community-focused organisations. As the parent of a deaf child who communicates using both Auslan and spoken language, David brings valuable lived experience and insight into the opportunities and challenges faced by deaf and hard of hearing children and their families. His work within Deaf education settings and ongoing engagement with the Deaf community have strengthened his understanding of Deaf culture, communication, and inclusive systems of support. David also volunteers with Feel the Magic’s Camp Magic program, supporting children and young people experiencing grief and loss through therapeutic camp experiences focused on resilience, wellbeing, and connection. He is passionate about community connection, wellbeing, and creating environments where children and families feel supported, valued, and empowered to thrive.