Staff Profile

When did you join The Friends' School? 

I started working in the Kindergarten at The Friends' School in January 2021. Looking back, I feel like it has been the culmination of a personal journey that began when I was 4. I often reflect on the influence that attending a multicultural Kindergarten, studying anthropology, being introduced to the International Baccalaureate at uni and working overseas has had on grounding me at The Friends' School. 

How long have you been teaching? 

I began teaching in 2008 in Melbourne. In 2010 I moved to Germany for a year and worked at a trilingual Kindergarten in Berlin. I'm very happily settled in Tasmania after moving here in 2015 and I'm happy to be working at a school that values inquiry and play based learning in the early years.

What is your favourite thing you have done this year?

My favourite thing at school this year has been our Earthcare Days and ways that we have fostered a connection to Country. It's always inspiring to see how children play in natural spaces. When they are allowed time to settle into the natural environment their observation skills are enhanced, they take risks and persevere to challenge their bodies and they use their imagination in different ways. One group of children has recently been working on building a staircase to the moon measuring and testing sticks, weaving them into branches and adjusting their techniques along the way. A close second has been bringing to life the Kindergarten children's idea of having a costume festival. It has been an exciting exploration of materials, creativity and imagination. The creative process has honoured children's voice and agency. From a bridal dress to look like Aphrodite to a mouse in an aquarium they have been so proud of how their costumes have turned out.

Where is your favourite place in the world? 

That's a really hard question to answer. My favourite place to travel to is Japan, I love the food, walking trails, onsens and the arts there but it's hard to compare that to the rugged basalt cliffs, iceberg filled lakes and hot rivers to bathe in Iceland. I always feel like I've returned  home when I visit family in Germany. If I was to choose based on where my heart feels the fullest it would have to be takayna/the Tarkine. Its pristine wilderness, rich with biodiversity and an incredible ecosystem is worth protecting. Kayaking on the Pieman with mist rising off the tannin filled river, the sun beaming through thick rainforest to the sound of the morning birdsong is a very special experience.

What is your secret talent (that won't be so secret now)?!

I don't think I have any but my partner would probably say the ability to whip up a wholesome and delicious meal with whatever is in the garden or fridge. Cooking is definitely a creative outlet for me.