Why I Do What I Do

Over the past 15 years, I’ve worked with students facing learning challenges, parents navigating complex educational systems, and teachers carrying the weight of growing classroom demands. What I discovered is this: when teachers feel grounded and supported, everything changes. Classrooms become calmer, students grow in confidence, and parents feel reassured.

But, there is a gap between classroom knowledge, teacher knowledge and the learning challenges that students face in the classroom environment and it is my mission to map that a whole world smaller.

Whether I'm mentoring my tutoring team, supporting families navigating learning and classroom challenges, or working with HSC students completing their paths into the next phase of their lives, I'm passionate about making education accessible and heart-centered.

My approach blends practical classroom strategies with mindful practices, because I believe great teaching flows from a teacher who feels grounded, creative, and whole. When we nurture the educator, we transform the entire learning experience.

My Teaching Journey

2006-2008 Bachelor of Arts (English and History) and teaching guitar, piano and singing.

2009-2010 Masters of Teaching (Secondary Education) and still teaching music.

2010-2012 Casual teaching and contract. Teaching Geography, History and English.

2012-2016 Permanent full time teaching position.

2016 Founder of Breakaway Education and Tutor. Opened the first centre in Bowral.

2016 Qualified Tutor of the Australian Tutoring Association (ATA)

2017 Irlen screener and consultant. First time mum, my beautiful first daughter was born.

2018 Yoga teaching course

2020 Opened and closed our Wilton centre. Pivoted to Online (thanks COVDI).

2021 Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Learning Difficulties)

2023 Second time mum, my beautiful second daughter was born.

My Philosophy

My approach is grounded in the Balance, Foundations, Cultivate framework:

Foundations – Practical skills, systems, and strategies that enhance learning for all students, from those with diagnosed or hidden challenges to those needing extra support. Strong foundations create inclusive, impactful classrooms.

Cultivate – Teaching is growth. This pillar focuses on professional reflection, refining practice, and nurturing our identity beyond “teacher,” so both we and our classrooms continue to flourish.

Balance – Sustainable teaching starts with wellbeing. Balance means setting boundaries, practising mindfulness, and protecting our energy to avoid burnout in a heart-led profession.

Spiritual Wellbeing – Tools like journaling, meditation, rituals, and mindset shifts that ground us, restore us, and reconnect us to our purpose as educators.

I believe great teaching isn’t just about content delivery it’s about the whole teacher. When we nurture the educator, we transform the classroom.

My Values

Balance – Wellbeing & Sustainability
Supporting teachers and parents to thrive through rest, boundaries, and sustainable practices.

Clarity – Strong Foundations
Creating simple systems and strategies that bring confidence and calm to teaching and learning.

Growth – Reflection & Professional Development
Encouraging lifelong learning, reflection, and curiosity so classrooms — and teachers — keep evolving.

Connection – Relationships with Heart
Building authentic, heart-led relationships that strengthen classrooms, families, and communities.

Empowerment – Confidence & Agency
Equipping teachers and parents with the tools to feel capable, confident, and inspired.

Every part of my work extends from my above values.

I believe in education that honours individuality, creates safe spaces for learners, and builds resilience in both teachers and students.

For me, teaching isn’t about doing it all perfectly.

It’s about showing up with intention, creating moments of connection, and making sure every student has the chance to succeed.