I’m Hannah Harrison. I teach music at the Willows Montessori school as a co-curricular subject. My interests include art, music, writing and psychology. Music has always been an important feature in my family growing up. I found it to be a way to express emotions, yet still be structured. It became my safety bubble where I could just lose myself and I found great enjoyment in listening to works that expressed people’s feelings and their stories, and sometimes playing those works. I’m a big believer that music can be used to express things words can’t and that music is something everyone can do. The Willows provides a space for this to occur, for flexibility in the music journey, for interests to be heard and delved into, for expansion of horizons, and for an environment to try new things.

I’m Natalia Richardson, and I’ve had the privilege of working at The Willows Montessori for the past eight years as a Montessori Directress. My passion for supporting children’s growth has led me on a continuous journey as an educator, working with children who face a variety of challenges. This journey introduced me to the Yoga4Kids program, a practice that deeply resonates with me.

Yoga develops  mindfulness, self-regulation, and core strength in growing children and is beneficial in helping them develop strength, happiness and peace through the connection of mind, body, and breath. Having seen the benefits in my own life and my children’s lives, and I’m thrilled to now share the magic of yoga and mindfulness with the children at The Willows—a truly special school with a rich history and nurturing environment where children can grow and flourish.

Kerry Chapman, Principal of the Helen O'Grady Drama Academy has taught speech and drama at The Willows School for 12+ years. 

With a passion for fostering creativity and confidence, Kerry has inspired countless young minds through her engaging and interactive classes.

 She particularly loves teaching drama at The Willows, where the children's keen enthusiasm, open-mindedness, and passion for learning create a vibrant and dynamic environment. As a seasoned educator and drama specialist, Kerry expertly guides students in developing essential life skills, including public speaking, self-expression, and teamwork. Under her guidance, students flourish in a supportive and imaginative community, unlocking their full potential and nurturing a lifelong love for the performing arts.

The sporting activities at The Willows are overseen by The Kick-Ups crew. Kick-Ups coaches are extremely passionate about sport and utilise this passion to fuel both the physical and social development of students. Various sporting codes are covered, with a progressive approach. This approach ensures that all participants have an opportunity to understand the basic principles of the relevant sport, before progressing to more dynamic and competitive levels. But one thing always remains the same - FUN is priority #1! 

Sport is about more than just being out in the sun (or under the lapa on a rainy day)! It is about providing children the opportunity to enhance their social skills in a dynamic environment, all whilst maximising enjoyment. We truly believe that Sport is as important as any other educational subject and therefore take immense pride in the role we play on our students’ lives. Sport nurtures friendships, promotes healthy physical development and very importantly, provides a unique form of exposure, which is super beneficial forany young individual. 

Sport at The Willows unites the children. Whether it be individual or team activities, encouragement and support is, and will always be, the theme of theday!