Stories of Practice Series

Tune in once a month to our new series, Stories of Practice! Each session, you will hear stories from different Gowrie NSW teachers and educators on diverse topics where inclusive practices have been embedded or transformed. Gain insights, strategies, and engage in lively discussions with opportunities for Q&A.

The Stories of Practice Series is an online, interactive session that will feature the everyday practice and pedagogy of Gowrie NSW educators and teachers across NSW and ACT. You will hear from teachers and educators on a broad range of subject matter, where they have transformed or embedded new and inclusive practice into their services.

Opportunities for stories across the ages of birth to 12 years will encourage you to thinking deeply about your own pedagogy and practice, gain insights and new strategies, and have the opportunity to ask questions and be engaged in a lively pedagogy discussion.

Supported by our pedagogical coaches and mentors, these stories of practice will demonstrate an underpinning lens of theoretical and contemporary research and practitioner inquiry.

This brand-new series will feature new stories every month and will run between March and November 2026. Join a session or choose them all!

In this session, hear three different 15min stories;

Story 1 Topic: Transforming Infant mealtimes  

with Christa fuda from our Newstead EEC 

Story 2 Topic: Infant initiated Post Box 

With Susy Fuller from our Lithgow EEC 

Story 3 Topic: Cultivating Change in an Infant Space 

with Shaila Martinez from our Erskineville EEC

  • No future dates available.

About the presenters

  • Fiona Veld-Brown
    Fiona Veld-Brown

    Fiona Veld-Brown has over two decades of experience in early childhood education, much of her career has been spent a Centre Director in Sydney, where she developed a profound respect for infant and toddler pedagogy, supported by the RIE® Foundations and Pikler training. In recent years, Fiona led a professional learning team for a growing organisation, empowering educators with the tools and knowledge needed to enhance their practice. Fiona's approach is rooted in enriching pedagogical practice through collaborative reflection, intentional dialogue, and coaching, always guided by research and meaningful relationships.

  • Shaila Martinez - Bio Pic
    Shaila Martinez

    Shaila Martinez is an experienced early childhood professional with a deep passion for fostering meaningful interactions, connections, and relationships between educators and infants. A pivotal moment in Shaila's career came when she was introduced to the RIE® philosophy. Shaila joined Gowrie NSW Erskineville Early Education and Care in 2020 and continues to support educators to embrace respectful caregiving approaches that honor each child's perspective. Shaila inspires educators, advocating for practices that prioritise relationships, respect, and attunement to children's needs.