SWAY team

Joanne  (Speech pathologist)

I feel incredibly privileged to have worked on the SWAY program since its inception.  From its early beginnings at the Bourke EYTC and Bowraville P.S., it is now shared over 30 sites.

Building relationships is important, and I enjoy work closely with educators to help them support children with communication difficulties.  With Arnie the puppet (my trusty wingman), I link in remotely to deliver the SWAY Targeted Intervention program to preschools/schools across NSW.

Juliana (Early childhood teacher)

I feel very honoured to have begun my journey with the SWAY team and Royal Far West School in 2024. My background is in Early Childhood Education and with my training I have been working in many different career opportunities along the way. I am excited to be working with rural and remote families, children and Educators using the SWAY (Sounds, Words, Aboriginal Language and Yarning) program. SWAY is such a unique program and I am passionate to be part of an awesome team and to work collaboratively to continue the SWAY legacy onwards and upwards. 

Lizzie (Speech pathologist)

I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of the SWAY program at Royal Far West School. SWAY is a fabulous program that helps children with communication challenges while also strengthening the skills of educators in regional and remote areas of NSW. I truly enjoy the close collaboration we have with schools and the strong, meaningful relationships we build each year. It’s so rewarding to witness the children’s growth and increased confidence, and it’s inspiring to see the positive impact we’re making on their lives.

Bronwyn (Speech Pathologist)

As a speech pathologist, my professional journey has mostly centred around supporting children and families from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Although I’m a city girl myself, I come from a family of country teachers, so I have a deep appreciation for education beyond city limits. Joining SWAY in 2015 presented an exciting opportunity to learn about and work with Aboriginal languages and dialects.

During my time in the SWAY team, I have had the privilege of collaborating with a wonderful group of clinicians and educators. Together, we have worked to augment the enriching language and literacy activities in the classroom and promote development in these areas to ensure that every child achieves their full learning potential. I remain committed to this work, which helps empower children to thrive academically.

Victoria (Speech pathologist)

Caroline (Aboriginal education officer)

Caroline Glass-Pattison local Senior Knowledge Woman Wiradurji descendant working within RFW school and SWAY team.

Connecting with our jarjums and families brings me joy each day I come to work.

Elke (Primary teacher)

I feel extremely lucky to be a part of the SWAY team at Royal Far West School.

As a primary educator with a background in learning support and gifted education, I am excited to collaborate with the SWAY team to support educators in our communities; delivering a unique program that can make a real difference in the lives of our diverse learners.

Lois (Aboriginal Education Officer)

I love meeting the new families and watching the students have fun in the classrooms with lots of interesting resources.  I enjoy listening to the many yarns and I cherish the friendships formed over the years I have worked here.  The families and students make our work meaningful.  I am inspired to continue the great work we do.