Introducing the brains behind the website............
 | Clare Smith: I am a mother of three living in rural Western Australia and married to a Physical Education Teacher. My passion for teaching includes rural education and special needs, as my middle daughter has a neurological disorder known as Leukodystrophy. I believe all students, no matter their abilities, limitations or demographics, have a right to quality education and I want to be part of the process in bringing them that education. Working with Rob, Jennifer and Michelle to present effective teaching strategies has been an interesting experience (in a good way) because, not only do we have a diversity of perspectives but our only communication mechanisms for presentation have been via technological means such as email, university forums and msn. |
 | Jennifer Sonter: Hi, my name is Jennifer I am a divorced mother of two. We live with my partner and his daughter in Prospect NSW, approximately 40 minutes west of Sydney. My eldest daughter is currently in year 1 at St Michaels Catholic School in South Blacktown and my youngest starts school next year. I have a passion for children and believe education is the best gift we can give our children as it equips them for their futures. Effective teaching is a very broad topic. Personally I am a supporter of teaching for student diversity, to understand each child and how to best support their learning. I also strongly support cooperative learning, as it allows for children to learn from one another. Effective teaching is the responsibility of teachers, parents and anyone who influences our children’s lives. We all have a responsibility to create effective learning for our children. |
 | Robert Sonneveld: I am a father of five living in Southern Victoria and married to a nurse. I'm particularly interested in ensuring that all students, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion or socioeconomic status, are given the best chance of success by gaining essential reading, mathematical, computer and life skills. I am personally aware that some children still manage to slip through the cracks. I hope to be part of the process to prevent this from happening in the future. |
 | Michelle Suckling: My name is Michelle and I have a young daughter, Katelyn. My partner Tim, Katelyn and I live in Narrogin, Western Australia. I have worked with children for approximately fifteen years in various roles. I have always wanted to become a qualified teacher but up until now I have not had the opportunity to begin with this ambition. I am currently employed as an Education Assistant and enjoy my role but would like to offer students more. I believe that all children deserve quality education no matter their circumstances. |
