WE ARE EXPERIENCED AND PASSIONATE TEACHERS SUPPORTING EDUCATORS
“Our vision is to improve the lives of students by working together with teachers to provide exceptional literacy instruction.”
About us
Michelle had started her own tutoring business and was looking for ways to stay engaged in professional dialogue with her peers. She started reaching out to local teachers and began the Teachers’ Book Club. Sue heard about the club through a mutual friend and once they met there was no stopping them.
Both had a wealth of knowledge from their obsessions with webinars, podcasts, professional articles, teacher reference books, courses and online communities, anything relating to Structured Literacy and how best to teach children to read and write.
Engrossed in our shared passion for teaching and literacy, we find ourselves constantly immersed in discussions about the latest articles we've read and podcasts we've listened to. These invigorating conversations continually push us to synthesize research and resources from both critical and practical perspectives, enhancing our ability to make a meaningful impact in the classroom.
Our ultimate mission is to curate and effectively communicate this knowledge with fellow teachers thus empowering them to deliver exceptional literacy instruction for all students.
Develop deeper professional knowledge, practical ideas and evidenced based practices in teaching reading, writing and spelling.
Grow through discussion, inquiry and reflection on student outcomes (not our own egos!)
Inspire collaboration and curiosity within our professional community.
The Teachers Behind Teaching Together
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Michelle Waterman
I am an enthusiastic educator with a deep passion for teaching. Since 2003, I have dedicated my career to working in primary schools across Victoria, Australia. Over the years, I have not only excelled in the classroom but have also taken on various leadership positions such as Literacy Coordinator, Team Leader, and Curriculum Coordinator.
In 2019, I embarked on an exciting venture that continues to this day: an intervention business aimed at supporting students with learning difficulties and providing personalized one-to-one instruction. Witnessing the transformative impact of structured literacy and evidence-based techniques derived from the Science of Learning has been truly rewarding.
I am dedicated to continuous learning, actively seeking out the latest research and evidence-based practices in education. I have completed various courses, including Sounds-Write, Little Learners Love Literacy, DIBELS training, and Improving Reading for Older Students. Additionally, I stay informed through podcasts, webinars, and a rich collection of reference books. By immersing myself in these educational opportunities, I consistently refine my expertise in literacy instruction and educational practices.
Moreover, my true passion lies in sharing knowledge and collaborating with fellow educators. I am dedicated to empowering teachers by providing them with the tools and insights they need to create impactful learning experiences. Together, we can unlock the full potential of our students and inspire a love for learning.
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Sue Hiland
In 2014, I embraced a new path in my professional journey, transitioning from a successful career in adult education and instructional design to the rewarding world of primary teaching. Bringing with me a lifelong passion for reading and children's literature, I wholeheartedly embraced the opportunity to ignite young minds through literacy education. A fortunate detour between careers allowed me to manage a bookshop, further fuelling my dedication to teaching literacy and fostering a deep love for books.
As a classroom teacher, I championed the importance of reading and created engaging classroom libraries, carefully curating inspiring and accessible reading materials. Affectionately known as the "Book Lady" by my students, I wholeheartedly engaged in book discussions during yard duties, exchanging recommendations and fostering a vibrant reading community.
Throughout my teaching journey, I became increasingly concerned about the number of students struggling with reading proficiency and missing out on the true joys of literature. This led me on a quest to investigate the underlying reasons behind these challenges and find effective solutions.
To equip myself with the best tools and strategies, I have completed training in Systematic Synthetic Phonics, including Sounds-Write and Reading Simplified. Currently, I am on the verge of completing a Masters of Education at Latrobe University specialising in Language and Literacy.
Recently I have been given the privilege of working with Dr. Nathaniel Swain at La Trobe University as a tutor in the Bachelor of Education undergraduate course.
I have also completed the Step Lab Australia initial training, further enriching my understanding in coaching teachers. I am thrilled to join forces with passionate teachers, united in our mission to share knowledge and make a difference in the lives of our students.
We’ve signed the primary reading pledge
“To reduce to near zero the number of children who finish primary school unable to read by providing primary schools with the resources and training to provide effective assessment and intervention.”
Support the Primary Reading Pledge. Sign now.