“It was obvious to me from the beginning that Leanne had crafted and mastered the art of storytelling, completely capturing our attention and imagination. At the time I was creating an online course for educators -”Transforming Pedagogy for authentic learning”. Therefore, I was delighted to find Leanne’s storytelling experience completely captivating, engaging children’s hearts, minds and hands. These were principles I wanted to share with educators about authentic learning, and I am thankful that Leanne agreed to contribute in this video.” 

Andrea Isitt, First Door Company Director

“The production was an amazing interactive experience for the students, where they were fully engaged, using their imaginations and creativity to make rockets and design space stations following the oral story. This opportunity linked perfectly with the current English unit, focusing on how stories can be told using different modes and mediums.”

Karen Esslemont & Kelly Schneider, Year 1 & 2 teachers, St Brigid’s Catholic Primary School, Kyogle

“The students were absolutely captivated by the story and the storytelling. It was wonderful to see the gasps of wonder and delight in the students' faces as they responded to and connected with the central themes of Blast Off. The story integrates so many elements of our learning in English, Science and the Creative Arts and all in such a fun way.”

Megan Bennett, Year 4 teacher, Wyrallah Road Public School, Lismore

“It was great to listen to and I love it how, not only does Leanne tell you a story, but you get to make stuff and make lands! Blast Off was an amazing experience and I would like to thank Leanne for coming to my school and teaching me new things!”

Ella Small, Year 4B student, Wyrallah Road Public School, Lismore

“Leanne is Storyteller in Residence at our preschool. Her stories are beautifully told, rich in concepts and provocations that are suitable for all our early childhood programs. Her told stories are an experience for all the senses, totally engaging children of all ages and learning abilities. After the story, Leanne provides an interactive, creative, group experience for all the children, making things related to the story, recreating parts of the story with beautifully hand-made or upcycled props, going on an imaginary journey, or building a construction together - like a space station. I enjoy these creative experiences along with the children! I’m sure once you have experienced Leanne’s wonderful stories and associated activities, you will be hooked and want her aback again and again (like us!).”

 Tracey Ezzy, Director, Bentley Community Preschool

“Leanne is a wonderful storyteller. Not only do the children love the imaginative world she opens up to them, but the educators also benefit by experiencing her simple but beautiful storytelling techniques. Leanne enriches our program while she in-services and inspires children, educators and families.”

Allyson Cuskelly, Director, Evans Head/Woodburn Community Preschool

“Leanne’s “Blast Off!” story was told to a group of children aged between 8 and 14. All the children were mesmerised, as were the adults! A story of hope, love and trust, it touched each and every heart in the audience. From her beautiful singing voice to the delightful handmade puppets, Leanne is a true storyteller, holding her audience with magical anticipation. After the story my combined class, aged between 9 and 11, enjoyed the interactive element of Leanne’s storytime. It was absolutely delightful - playful, fun and team building. We look forward to the next big adventure!”

Jane Robinson, Class 4/5 teacher, Rainbow Ridge School for Steiner Education, Lillian Rock

"Leanne has a unique presentation that speaks profoundly to the needs of children in our times. Her use of organic storytelling inspires the young mind into pathways of sustainability and conscious living as she inventively weaves natural props and home-mades. My students at Rainbow Ridge Steiner School have experienced two storytelling sessions and a workshop with Leanne, and I found my class thoroughly engaged, uplifted and empowered."

Deb Moore, Class 2/3 Teacher, Rainbow Ridge School for Steiner Education, Lillian Rock

“As a director and early childhood consultant I recommend ‘Storytelling at Your Service’ as a unique, wonderful and powerful opportunity for early childhood services everywhere. Through oral storytelling Leanne weaves gripping and engaging tales that touch on fundamental truths and dilemmas - covering relationships and emotional literacy, environmental and global concerns, and everything in between. At the same time, Leanne’s stories are playful and immersive, always life affirming and - when it comes down to it - great fun! I am particularly impressed by the way Leanne skillfully holds the attention of even the youngest children - who remain spellbound and entranced as she weaves her magic. As an early childhood teacher I also appreciate how Leanne provides an opportunity for children themselves to engage in, and co-construct their meanings around the story with her, as part of the session.This is a powerful way to help children to ‘unpack’ and reflect on the experience, consolidate their learning and experience agency as co-authors and storytellers. As well Leanne manages to incorporate many other aspects of the arts and the curriculum into the experience. In addition to a focus on literacy, narrative, language and storytelling, Leanne’s sessions are as much about theatre, music, poetry, mime, puppetry and ritual. Her stories themselves ‘teach’ emotional literacy, explore communication and relationships, and deal with sustainability and global concerns in relatable and compelling ways. As an educator Leanne’s strong knowledge of the Early Years Learning Framework means that the learning outcomes are carefully considered and engaged with and are clearly evident in each story and performance. Her storytelling and performance is sensitive, skillful and responsive to children and pedagogically rigorous.”

Stephen Gallen, Cawongla Playhouse Director & Early Childhood Consultant