Susan

I believe that literacy is the foundation for a life of independence and joy. My journey in education spans over 25 years, including my most recent role as a Resource Teacher of Literacy (RT:Lit). In this specialist position, I worked at the highest tier of intervention, supporting Year 1–8 students with significant and persistent learning challenges, including dyslexia and other Specific Learning Disabilities (SLDs).

I know that for a child who struggles, the classroom can feel like a daunting place. Having spent a decade delivering targeted interventions and coaching fellow teachers in evidence-based practices, I have seen firsthand how the right approach can change a child’s trajectory. My teaching is grounded in Structured Literacy principles—an explicit, systematic way of teaching phonemic awareness, phonics, word reading, spelling, fluency and comprehension that works when conventional methods haven't.

At Life with Literacy, I am bringing this specialised expertise to my one-to-one practice in Pāpāmoa. I am committed to providing the precise, diagnostic support your child needs within a safe and focused learning environment. By working face-to-face, I can bridge the gaps in your child's learning and help them gain the essential tools they need to navigate the world with independence. Beyond our lessons, I value a close partnership with whānau, ensuring you are empowered and informed as we work together to rebuild your child’s confidence and academic success.