Director, Teacher, Authorised Supervisor

KAREN

My name is Karen Shackell. I have been an early childhood educator for 22 years and working at Possum’s since 2003 as the teaching director. I have a degree in early childhood as well as a diploma and certificate in children’s services. As we get to learn all about your children, here’s a little information about me and my life. I have lived in this beautiful place from a young baby after my parents moved from Newcastle. My extended family are long residents of the local community, so i have a great understanding and knowledge of our area, and the families within it.

Some of the things I love to do are surfing, especially at Snapper Rocks, and living the beach way of life. I love playing soccer and sport in general, going to see live music and hanging out with my family. You might find us water skiing at Tumbulgum in the Tweed River, dining out in our local restaurants. I don’t mind watching movies and LOVE renovation shows.

Teacher

TANYA 

Hi my name is Tanya, I have a certificate in Teachers aide (special), a Certificate III and Diploma in Children’s services. I have been employed at Possums since 2014 and have learnt so much from my very talented co-workers. Possums preschool allows me to share my love of nature and the environment and encourages me to up cycle items that can be used in our eve- ry day experiences. I am a proud mum of two amazing daughters Taylah and Katelyn, both girls have taught me so much ,especially when it comes to their interests such as dance, drama, singing ,piano and art. I love spending time with my girls and our two dogs Bo and Tilly ,whether it be at the beach or visiting our local markets. I enjoy pottering in my garden even though I don’t have a green thumb ,I like trying to grow my own fresh produce .I am a big lover of books and I have fun looking for new and interesting books to share with my Posssum friends

Teacher

MICHELLE

My name is Michelle Acret and I have been teaching at Possums for 4 years. I am married with 4 children- a girl and boy in high school and a boy and girl in primary. I moved to the north coast 13 years ago from Sydney looking for a sea-change. I enjoy the beautiful beaches the tweed coast has to offer, and enjoy playing sports. I have a Bachelor of Education in early childhood and am interested in children learning through play whilst preparing them for school.

Teacher

SARAH

Hi, my name is Sarah and I have been part of the Possum community for two years working as a casual during this period. I have a Certificate Three in Children’s Services and am currently studying to complete my Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.

I am married and have two children Lachie, 10 and Chloe, 7. Our other family members consist of seven guinea pigs, Scout our lovely dog, two turtles, a fish and a sea snail.

My husband and I moved up from Sydney 14 years ago looking to escape the busyness and feel very lucky to live in this beautiful part of the world. Our family love bushwalking, fishing and swimming in our local rivers and beaches however my dream weekend is spending it in my garden.

I have a real passion for gardening and enjoy creating little areas of wonderment in the outdoors that enhances children’s imaginations and encourages their interest and involvement in the garden around them. I look forward to sharing these experiences with the children at Possums.

​

Teacher

Heidi

Hello, my name is Heidi.

Nature play, exploration, relaxation and laughter are very important to me. As are practicing self awareness,
yoga, sport, meditation and music. I believe in getting dirty and making mistakes, learning to be a good friend and communicating feelings. I acknowledge we belong to a family, culture and global community and we all play a part in the future of our planet. I honour the shared time and learning from our Indigenous Aunties and Uncles.

A little more about me; I made a career change from 16 years in the advertising film industry following
the experience of my daughter’s preschool. I can remember thinking, ‘wow, this has to be one of the best
years of your life!’ Lucky for me I found Possums at the beginning of 2019 after moving from Victoria to
Cabarita with my husband and daughters Rosa (11) and Maya (9).  Now I’m studying a Graduate Diploma
in Early Childhood at Southern Cross University. In my down time you’ll find me at the cleanest offshore
surf break or enjoying some live music with friends and family.

I feel privileged to work at Possums, to share such a special, unique time with you and your child, to work
alongside a super talented bunch of educators in a beautiful natural environment on Bundjalung land.

Teacher

Grayson

Hello, my name is Grayson.

​

Teacher

Aunty Deidre

Hello, my name is Deidre.

​