About
At The Rainforest School, learning is shaped by care, connection, and curiosity. We create an environment where children feel safe to grow, explore, and thrive.
Our story
The Rainforest School began with a simple belief: that children learn best when they feel connected — to themselves, each other, and the natural world. We’ve grown into a vibrant, values-led school that nurtures each child’s unique journey while staying rooted in community and care.
Mission
To provide a child-centred, holistic education that supports each child’s individual needs — academically, socially, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.
Vision
To be a home-away-from-home, where self-confidence is nurtured, relationships are authentic, and a love of learning and nature is deeply embedded.
"The small class sizes meant our child was given the attention and support that helped her to grow confidently."
Pillars & Values
Our four pillars reflect the values we live by each day at The Rainforest School.
Connection
Community
Conservation
Creativity
"With so much family involvement it's not just a home away from home for the kids, but for the whole family too."
Building Our Forever Home
In early 2024, our school community was impacted by a severe and unexpected flood. While the event brought enormous challenges, it also sparked something powerful: a renewed vision for what The Rainforest School could become. The flood required us to relocate to our new Frog's Hollow site.
Today, we're building that vision. With support from our families, community, and funding partners, we're creating a new purpose-built campus that reflects our values, meets the needs of our learners, and strengthens our connection to place.This is more than a rebuild.
This is more than a rebuild. It’s our forever home, and we’re so proud to share a glimpse of what’s to come.
Our team
Our passionate team brings warmth, experience, and creativity to every classroom. We believe that great teaching starts with strong relationships — and it shows in everything we do.
Carolien has been part of The Rainforest School since day one and now leads the team as Acting Principal. She is passionate about community, creativity, and adventure, with a love of travel and big ideas.
Claire brings over 20 years of teaching experience and a deep commitment to sustainability. Her calm, thoughtful approach helps students connect with the world around them.
Ian has over 40 years of experience and brings Science and HASS to life with depth, curiosity and energy. A skilled musician, he brings rhythm and creativity into the classroom.
Tara is an experienced Maths teacher who joined the team this year. She brings clarity to learning and a love of sailing and the outdoors into her teaching.
Karen brings years of teaching expertise and a joyful, caring presence to her Indonesian and Health classes. Her focus on wellbeing and connection helps students feel supported, seen and inspired.
Tanya supports English, The Arts, and our Kitchen Garden program. She has a natural way with students and brings energy, creativity and calm wherever she goes.
Tereza supports Maths and Technologies and also co-leads the Kitchen Garden program. She brings beauty and calm to the classroom by playing classical piano during relaxation time.
Tara supports Science, HASS, Language and Health classes. A seasoned sailor, she brings global experience and a steady, thoughtful presence.
Jaime began as a teacher aide and now brings her creativity and kindness to our office. She has a talent for sewing, baking, and helping things run smoothly.