I began my teaching career in regional and rural Queensland, working closely with diverse communities. Teaching in small towns provided invaluable experiences that I wouldn’t have encountered in metropolitan areas. In my early career, I taught health and physical education in secondary schools before transitioning to classroom teaching in primary schools. While resource availability was often a challenge, the opportunity to collaborate with talented colleagues enriched my professional growth and broadened my perspective.

After having a family and returning to the classroom, I realised that while I loved teaching, I wanted to do more to support children and their learning. This led me to pursue a master’s degree in speech pathology, allowing me to expand my impact. As a speech pathologist, I help children overcome communication challenges that affect their learning and social interactions. I support the development of language skills, improve speech clarity, and guide literacy growth through targeted interventions in reading, writing, and phonological awareness.

Additionally, I help children navigate peer interactions and classroom dynamics by strengthening their social communication and problem-solving skills. By collaborating with teachers and families, I contribute to individualised education plans and advocate for reasonable adjustments and accommodations. This holistic approach ensures that children are fully supported in their educational journey, empowering them to engage confidently and achieve long-term success.