As a Consultant for the Education Hub at Gowrie NSW, Jessica brings a strong background of knowledge drawn from her experiences as an early childhood teacher and director.  Jessica has worked in a range of settings such as community adult education, parent run playgroups, Reggio Emilia inspired settings and Rudolf Steiner Schools in New Zealand and Australia.

Jessica has a particular interest in the theories and philosophy of relationships in early childhood environments. This interest formed the basis of her Masters in Education thesis and explored how the beliefs held by Rudolf Steiner early childhood educators influenced their practices of forming relationships with children in their first year of attending preschool. Prior to working in early childhood, Jessica trained and practiced as a visual artist and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Otago Art School in New Zealand.

Donna holds a Master’s degree in early childhood education, and over 35 years of teaching experience in the early childhood sector (both with children and babies), and in training educators. Donna believes that children need to connect with nature and develop a deep understanding of the world they live in towards a sustainable future. Donna is passionate about incorporating Indigenous culture into children’s education, and holds a Graduate certificate in Sustainable Indigenous Partnerships, which informs her work toward embedding rich Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture within the curriculum as part of our shared Australian history.