Dr Kate Halcrow gained a BA (Hons) and Master of Teaching (Primary) at the University of Sydney in 1997.  She returned to complete a doctor of philosophy in 2017––for which she explored the interdisciplinary links between music and writing (rhythm and grammar)––drawing on neuro-cognitive and educational arts-based perspectives, and through empirical studies in NSW and ACT classrooms.

Dr Halcrow has presented and published internationally and in Australia, with a focus on literacy and music, including in research forums in France and the UK. Kate is co-convenor of the Language and Literacy SIG for AARE, and a member of PETAA, ALEA, PESA, FFLL and ASME.

Dr Halcrow has been a Head of Primary, Curriculum Coordinator and classroom teacher in K-12 Independent, Catholic and public schools in Sydney, Canberra, and rural NSW over more than 20 years. As a classroom teacher, Dr Halcrow founded the Pens Against Poverty schools writing competition a collaboration with Anti Poverty Week and Anglicare Australia. Kate also directed large school theatre productions one of which was nominated for 3 ACTEWAGL (CAT) awards.

Since 2021, Kate has convened and lecturing at UC (and the University of Sydney) in English literacy, the arts, HASS, Human Development and curriculum studies. Since 2025, Kate took up the role as Primary Program Director within the School of Teacher Education. Kate supervises doctoral students and has research interests in literacy and language, the creative arts (music and drama), philosophy, and civics education.