MENTORS
Our mentors are driven by the mission to help their students achieve their best results.
Tracey Daranjo
BA/BEd – Humanities Mentor
I graduated from the University of Queensland in 2002 with a Bachelor of Arts with majors in English, Classical History and History and a Bachelor of Education degree with a major in secondary education.
read more
Upon certification, I was awarded an ‘S1 – Outstanding’ in the practice of teaching which placed me amongst the top 5% of graduate teachers in Queensland in 2002.
Since then I have gained 10 years teaching experience as a classroom practitioner both within the public and private sectors within Australia and Manchester in the U.K. It was during my teaching in the U.K. that that I gained invaluable exposure to the benefit of individualised mentoring as part of weekly ‘Clinics’ that were run in schools to support student learning. Back in Australia, I voluntarily ran lunch and after school tutorials as well as departmental tutorials. I decided to undertake private tuition as a means to enhance student learning in both collaborative settings and through personalised one-on-one mentoring. My passion for education drives me to discover new and innovative ways for students to meet learning outcomes.
Teaching is my vocation in life! I spend most of my time as a private Mentor for university and high school students. I also am a Trainer for interactive technologies in the classroom. Additionally, I am a writing Mentor for job-seekers who need assistance with job applications including meeting selection criteria, letters of introduction and curriculum vitaes.
My teaching areas include English, Modern History, Ancient History, History, Studies of Religion, Drama and Art.
Rochelle LeBoutillier
BA/BEd – Humanities Mentor
I attended the University of Queensland, St Lucia and completed a Bachelor of Arts. I also completed a Bachelor of Education degree and was awarded membership into the Golden Key Academic Society.
read more
Education Queensland ranked my teaching practice as an ‘S1 – Outstanding’ which placed me amongst the top 5% of graduate teachers in 2002. I have 12 years high school teaching experience with the Australian Education system. I am also a trained Year 9 NAPLAN teacher and Years 3 – 9 NAPLAN marker.
I am a part-time teacher and full-time mother and I am thrilled to be able to offer assistance to students through new contexts and methods of teaching. My mentoring sessions would be conducted face-to-face and over Skype with the ability to be flexible with times and days. I’m passionate about teaching and strive to see my students achieve to their highest standards.
My teaching areas include English, Modern History, Ancient History and History.
Jonathan Calabria
Bachelor of Education & English Student – English & Science Mentor
After gaining a Bachelor in Environmental Management, I went on to develop my love for the outdoors in an Outdoor Education capacity where I worked with young people in the broader community of the USA.
read more
I have a long history living and working in developing countries. It was when I travelled to Colombia and Tanzania, where I worked as a teacher that this experience ignited within me a desire to teach. I am now studying a Bachelor of Education at Southern Cross University with a specialization in English.
I currently work for Queensland Recreation Centres on the Gold Coast, as an Expedition Leader with Antipodeans Abroad, in their leadership program. My experience working with Master Key Mentoring for the last 6 months has been a great experience to be able to work with individual students and differentiate learning styles. I look forward to continuing to work with MKM in the future.
Hayley Axon
BA/BEd – Drama & English Mentor
I graduated from the University of Queensland with a double bachelor degree in Education and Arts in 2009 and have spent the last few years working in management.
read more
I have always had an interest in alternative and complimentary means of education that can work within the current framework of the education system.
My specialist areas are English and Drama and I am very passionate about both subject areas. I always enjoyed these subjects at school and I love sharing this passion and excitement with my students. I also provide sessions focused on organisation and goal setting. I believe that fostering skills in these areas allows for students (and adults!) to work to the best of their ability across all areas and to do so in a manner that is both encouraging of personal development and educational success.
I believe that education should be a holistic experience that facilitates growth in all aspects of students’ lives and allows them to succeed on a personal and professional level.
As a Mentor, I have the objective of not only assisting my students in becoming proficient in their chosen subjects but to also to develop lifelong skills that will help them to develop as learners and as individuals.
Reina Schinkel
BA/Grad DipEd – English & Humanities Mentor
I attended Griffith University, and completed a Bachelor of Arts degree with Majors in both Education and Psychology.
read more
I also completed a Graduate Diploma of Education degree and Education Queensland ranked my teaching practice as S1 – Outstanding, which is the highest level of attainment. I have had many years of high school teaching experience in the Australian Education system. My teaching areas are English, Ancient History and Humanities.
Currently, I am studying for a Graduate Diploma of Psychology and I strongly believe in life-long learning. I also believe that every child deserves an equitable, solid education, as a stepping stone to life beyond the classroom. I enjoy supporting students work towards their goals and to attain the highest possible, educational outcomes for each individual student. The foundations of a successful life, start with education.
Cherie Trubuhovich
BEd – English & Humanities Mentor
I graduated from the University of Auckland in 1995 with a Bachelor of Education and have substantial teaching experience across all year levels, both in Auckland and Queensland.
read more
In addition to class room teacher, I have held many other positions within Education Queensland including: Pedagogy Officer, Literacy Coach, Director of Literacy and Head of Department. A great deal of my Queensland career has been building capacity in other teachers regarding targeted teaching strategies for reading and writing improvement.
In recent years my own personal teaching has been focused on delivery of the Australian English Curriculum Y7-10 and senior English Y11-12. I enjoy assisting with the literacies within different subject areas across the curriculum.
I am currently undertaking post graduate studies in research, academia and creative professional writing. I mentor undergraduate students across disciplines at Griffith and Bond Universities with a focus on academic research and writing.
I find that my passion for helping others achieve is catchy, often my students, even those who are initially reluctant, soon see the value of their efforts and feel a sense of pride in realising what they can achieve. My foundation goal is to build self-efficacy, once this is achieved, improvement is a bi-product.
As the mother of three teenage sons, and over twenty years in schools, I develop rapport and relationships with young people easily and work to create productive partnerships with them; we celebrate success together.
I look forward to meeting and mentoring more MKM students and enjoy being part of such a great community of learners.
Rebecca Power
BA/GradDipEd – English & ESL Mentor
I attended the University of Queensland from 1996 to 2000, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, with Majors in English, History/Ancient History and Psychology.
read more
I have seven years of high school teaching experience, as well as a further eight years, as an instructor for students who are learning English as a Second Language.
After university, I decided that I needed a little adventure. Wanting to see more of the world, I travelled to Japan in early 2001, with the intention of sharing my passion for English through teaching the language for a year. That ‘one year’ turned into eight wonderful years! I loved Japan so much, and, in particular, Yokohama, where I lived. I enjoyed learning and utilising the Japanese language, and witnessing my students, at all different levels of ability, achieve their individual English goals.
After teaching for eight fun years, from training new instructors, to teaching wide-eyed four-year-olds up to a kind gentleman of ninety who still loved to learn, I realised that this is where my true passion lies: teaching.
Consequently, I returned to Australia at the end of 2008, and enrolled to attend university, again, in 2009. At the end of that year, I graduated from the Australian Catholic University with a Graduate Diploma in Education (Secondary), and applied for a position at a top Gold Coast high school that I had long admired, due to, not only its emphasis on academia, but also its commitment to caring for the students and their welfare. I was successful in my application, and have had the pleasure of teaching English at that school, from Grade Eight to Twelve, and positively influencing my students, for the past seven years. In addition to classroom teaching, I am involved in a wide range of extracurricular activities that help the students grow and learn more about themselves. I ran a book club for students to promote a love of reading, and really enjoyed how much I got to know the students through our group discussions about characters and themes. Sport coaching and camps are other activities that I am involved in, which I find very rewarding because I get to see another side to the students.
I am very much looking forward to the opportunity to share my expertise further, by mentoring young people on a one-to-one basis, and getting to know each student individually, working together to achieve their goals and to celebrate their achievements. I like to tailor lessons so that they are educational, but also fun. Through personalising the activities and discussions to the students’ interests, I hope to build their confidence, and foster, within them, a lifelong love of learning.
Adam O’Brien
BA/Grad DipEd (Studying) – English & History Mentor
I am a university graduate, with Majors in English Literature and History, as well as a Minor in Philosophy. Over the course of this three-year degree, my academic success resulted in my making the Dean’s List annually. At the conclusion of my studies, I graduated with a 6.75 GPA.
read more
I am now engaged in post graduate studies, specifically in the area of Education, with an aim to becoming a high school teacher in English and Humanities.
In total, I have fifteen years experience as an English teacher, tutor and academic mentor. My journey began in 2001, when I travelled to Tokyo, Japan, to take up employment as an English instructor. What was supposed to be one-year, quickly turned into an eight-year stay. I found that I thoroughly enjoyed sharing my knowledge with young people, and so, on returning to Australia, I decided to pursue this through further study. During my time in Japan as an educator, I worked with children of all ages in a private language school. In addition, I taught business/technical English to reputable Japanese companies including Subaru and Toshiba. For the past two years, I have been successfully tutoring students who are disconnected from the classroom, as well as E.S.L. students who struggle with their studies, due to the difficulties learning the English language.
I am a caring and empathetic tutor, and I take great pride in tailoring my sessions to the individual student’s interests, and learning styles. In order to maximise my students’ chances of reaching their full potential, I model a strong work ethic and teach them the essential skills that underpin successful writing and oration. As a mentor, I strive to instil a sense of self-belief in my students that will allow them to successfully pursue their academic dreams. There are no short cuts to success, but I endeavour to make the process as engaging, and enjoyable, as possible.
Humanities
Ancient History, Geography, Modern History, Philosophy, Religion, Social Studies
Tracey Daranjo
BA/BEd – Humanities Mentor
I graduated from the University of Queensland in 2002 with a Bachelor of Arts with majors in English, Classical History and History and a Bachelor of Education degree with a major in secondary education.
read more
Upon certification, I was awarded an ‘S1 – Outstanding’ in the practice of teaching which placed me amongst the top 5% of graduate teachers in Queensland in 2002.
Since then I have gained 10 years teaching experience as a classroom practitioner both within the public and private sectors within Australia and Manchester in the U.K. It was during my teaching in the U.K. that that I gained invaluable exposure to the benefit of individualised mentoring as part of weekly ‘Clinics’ that were run in schools to support student learning. Back in Australia, I voluntarily ran lunch and after school tutorials as well as departmental tutorials. I decided to undertake private tuition as a means to enhance student learning in both collaborative settings and through personalised one-on-one mentoring. My passion for education drives me to discover new and innovative ways for students to meet learning outcomes.
Teaching is my vocation in life! I spend most of my time as a private Mentor for university and high school students. I also am a Trainer for interactive technologies in the classroom. Additionally, I am a writing Mentor for job-seekers who need assistance with job applications including meeting selection criteria, letters of introduction and curriculum vitaes.
My teaching areas include English, Modern History, Ancient History, History, Studies of Religion, Drama and Art.
Rochelle LeBoutillier
BA/BEd – Humanities Mentor
I attended the University of Queensland, St Lucia and completed a Bachelor of Arts. I also completed a Bachelor of Education degree and was awarded membership into the Golden Key Academic Society.
read more
Education Queensland ranked my teaching practice as an ‘S1 – Outstanding’ which placed me amongst the top 5% of graduate teachers in 2002. I have 12 years high school teaching experience with the Australian Education system. I am also a trained Year 9 NAPLAN teacher and Years 3 – 9 NAPLAN marker.
I am a part-time teacher and full-time mother and I am thrilled to be able to offer assistance to students through new contexts and methods of teaching. My mentoring sessions would be conducted face-to-face and over Skype with the ability to be flexible with times and days. I’m passionate about teaching and strive to see my students achieve to their highest standards.
My teaching areas include English, Modern History, Ancient History and History.
Reina Schinkel
BA/Grad DipEd – Humanities Mentor
I attended Griffith University, and completed a Bachelor of Arts degree with Majors in both Education and Psychology.
read more
I also completed a Graduate Diploma of Education degree and Education Queensland ranked my teaching practice as S1 – Outstanding, which is the highest level of attainment. I have had many years of high school teaching experience in the Australian Education system. My teaching areas are English, Ancient History and Humanities.
Currently, I am studying for a Graduate Diploma of Psychology and I strongly believe in life-long learning. I also believe that every child deserves an equitable, solid education, as a stepping stone to life beyond the classroom. I enjoy supporting students work towards their goals and to attain the highest possible, educational outcomes for each individual student. The foundations of a successful life, start with education.
Cherie Trubuhovich
BEd – English & Humanities Mentor
I graduated from the University of Auckland in 1995 with a Bachelor of Education and have substantial teaching experience across all year levels, both in Auckland and Queensland.
read more
In addition to class room teacher, I have held many other positions within Education Queensland including: Pedagogy Officer, Literacy Coach, Director of Literacy and Head of Department. A great deal of my Queensland career has been building capacity in other teachers regarding targeted teaching strategies for reading and writing improvement.
In recent years my own personal teaching has been focused on delivery of the Australian English Curriculum Y7-10 and senior English Y11-12. I enjoy assisting with the literacies within different subject areas across the curriculum.
I am currently undertaking post graduate studies in research, academia and creative professional writing. I mentor undergraduate students across disciplines at Griffith and Bond Universities with a focus on academic research and writing.
I find that my passion for helping others achieve is catchy, often my students, even those who are initially reluctant, soon see the value of their efforts and feel a sense of pride in realising what they can achieve. My foundation goal is to build self-efficacy, once this is achieved, improvement is a bi-product.
As the mother of three teenage sons, and over twenty years in schools, I develop rapport and relationships with young people easily and work to create productive partnerships with them; we celebrate success together.
I look forward to meeting and mentoring more MKM students and enjoy being part of such a great community of learners.
Rebecca Power
BA/GradDipEd – English & ESL Mentor
I attended the University of Queensland from 1996 to 2000, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, with Majors in English, History/Ancient History and Psychology.
read more
I have seven years of high school teaching experience, as well as a further eight years, as an instructor for students who are learning English as a Second Language.
After university, I decided that I needed a little adventure. Wanting to see more of the world, I travelled to Japan in early 2001, with the intention of sharing my passion for English through teaching the language for a year. That ‘one year’ turned into eight wonderful years! I loved Japan so much, and, in particular, Yokohama, where I lived. I enjoyed learning and utilising the Japanese language, and witnessing my students, at all different levels of ability, achieve their individual English goals.
After teaching for eight fun years, from training new instructors, to teaching wide-eyed four-year-olds up to a kind gentleman of ninety who still loved to learn, I realised that this is where my true passion lies: teaching.
Consequently, I returned to Australia at the end of 2008, and enrolled to attend university, again, in 2009. At the end of that year, I graduated from the Australian Catholic University with a Graduate Diploma in Education (Secondary), and applied for a position at a top Gold Coast high school that I had long admired, due to, not only its emphasis on academia, but also its commitment to caring for the students and their welfare. I was successful in my application, and have had the pleasure of teaching English at that school, from Grade Eight to Twelve, and positively influencing my students, for the past seven years. In addition to classroom teaching, I am involved in a wide range of extracurricular activities that help the students grow and learn more about themselves. I ran a book club for students to promote a love of reading, and really enjoyed how much I got to know the students through our group discussions about characters and themes. Sport coaching and camps are other activities that I am involved in, which I find very rewarding because I get to see another side to the students.
I am very much looking forward to the opportunity to share my expertise further, by mentoring young people on a one-to-one basis, and getting to know each student individually, working together to achieve their goals and to celebrate their achievements. I like to tailor lessons so that they are educational, but also fun. Through personalising the activities and discussions to the students’ interests, I hope to build their confidence, and foster, within them, a lifelong love of learning.
Adam O’Brien
BA/Grad DipEd (Studying) – English & History Mentor
I am a university graduate, with Majors in English Literature and History, as well as a Minor in Philosophy. Over the course of this three-year degree, my academic success resulted in my making the Dean’s List annually. At the conclusion of my studies, I graduated with a 6.75 GPA.
read more
I am now engaged in post graduate studies, specifically in the area of Education, with an aim to becoming a high school teacher in English and Humanities.
In total, I have fifteen years experience as an English teacher, tutor and academic mentor. My journey began in 2001, when I travelled to Tokyo, Japan, to take up employment as an English instructor. What was supposed to be one-year, quickly turned into an eight-year stay. I found that I thoroughly enjoyed sharing my knowledge with young people, and so, on returning to Australia, I decided to pursue this through further study. During my time in Japan as an educator, I worked with children of all ages in a private language school. In addition, I taught business/technical English to reputable Japanese companies including Subaru and Toshiba. For the past two years, I have been successfully tutoring students who are disconnected from the classroom, as well as E.S.L. students who struggle with their studies, due to the difficulties learning the English language.
I am a caring and empathetic tutor, and I take great pride in tailoring my sessions to the individual student’s interests, and learning styles. In order to maximise my students’ chances of reaching their full potential, I model a strong work ethic and teach them the essential skills that underpin successful writing and oration. As a mentor, I strive to instil a sense of self-belief in my students that will allow them to successfully pursue their academic dreams. There are no short cuts to success, but I endeavour to make the process as engaging, and enjoyable, as possible.
Sciences
Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Agricultural Science
Maria Edwin
BSc, PostGradDipEd – Science Mentor
After a successful nine years of teaching students in the windy city of Wellington, New Zealand, I decided it was time for a change of scenery and moved to the sunny Gold Coast in April, 2014.
read more
My areas of expertise and passion lie within the sciences, mainly human sciences such as Biology, Physiology and Anatomy. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences) from the University of Otago, Dunedin in 2005 and completed further studies with a Graduate and Post Graduate Diplomas in Teaching and Special Education.
I am passionate about teaching and learning and love helping students achieve to the best of their academic abilities with tips and techniques that have been successful through my own teaching and learning experiences. I enjoy mentoring students as it gives me the opportunity to individualise and adapt lessons based on the needs and learning styles of students. My main goal is to use my expertise in offering different ways to understand concepts that students need support with.
By building a rapport with my students, I am looking forward in enabling them to grow in confidence and competence to excel in their subjects. I particularly enjoy seeing the progress of students that this targeted process of mentoring provides. I look forward to nurturing my students in achieving their goals and educational aspirations for this year!
My teaching areas include Biology, Science, Chemistry and Mathematics.
Casey Hamilton
Bachelor of Science & Education Student – Science & General Learning Mentor
I am currently studying a Bachelor of Science & Education (Secondary) at Southern Cross University with majors in Biology, Earth & Environmental Science and Chemistry.
read more
Since beginning my degree, I have consistently achieved excellent results, which has awarded me an invitation to the Golden Key Academic Society.
My passion for teaching stems from my experiences traveling and working with children from all over the world; from Maasai children in rural Kenya to a summer camp in the USA to my current volunteer position with AIME (Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience). In each role, I have seen first-hand the importance of education in empowering students with the ability to determine their own future.
As an aspiring teacher, I am determined to empower students with the confidence they need to unlock their academic potential. Every student has different learning needs and by developing strong relationships, I am able to individualise each mentoring sessions to ensure they develop a structured, well-organised approach to studying that is enjoyable and meaningful. I am extremely fortunate to be able to play a role in the personal and academic growth of my students and take a lot of pride in watching them reach their full potential.
Jonathan Calabria
Bachelor of Education & English Student – English & Science Mentor
After gaining a Bachelor in Environmental Management, I went on to develop my love for the outdoors in an Outdoor Education capacity where I worked with young people in the broader community of the USA.
read more
I have a long history living and working in developing countries. It was when I travelled to Colombia and Tanzania, where I worked as a teacher that this experience ignited within me a desire to teach. I am now studying a Bachelor of Education at Southern Cross University with a specialization in English.
I currently work for Queensland Recreation Centres on the Gold Coast, as an Expedition Leader with Antipodeans Abroad, in their leadership program. My experience working with Master Key Mentoring for the last 6 months has been a great experience to be able to work with individual students and differentiate learning styles. I look forward to continuing to work with MKM in the future.
Calvin (Ziheng) Xu
Studying Bachelor of Medical Science – Math & Science Mentor, Mandarin Mentor
Hi everyone, How are you going? My name is Calvin Xu. I am currently studying a Bachelor of Medical Science at Griffith University and will be attending Griffith Medical School next year.
read more
I attended school in Brisbane at St. Laurence’s College and was lucky enough (and worked hard enough) to get an OP1.
I am a huge sport fan, and play basketball regularly. I also enjoy all types of music, ranging from Jazz to Hip-Hop.
My specialist as a Mentor, here at MKM, is Mathematics B, Chemistry and Chinese (mandarin). I believe that as a Mentor I can direct my students in the right direction of not only their studies, but to help them find passion in the subjects they choose. I am also passionate in discussions and talking to my students. It is always my goal to make sure they are developing both academically and mentally.
Rubini (Sivarubini) Mugunthan
Studying Bachelor of Dental Science – Science, Math & Physics Mentor
I graduated from AB Paterson College in 2015 as the Dux Proximae and an OP 1 student. I am currently pursuing my undergraduate studies in Bachelor of Oral Health in Dental Science at Griffith University.
read more
I am a Sir Samuel Griffith Scholarship recipient and a member of the Griffith Honours College.
Having been a mentee under Ms Tracey Daranjo’s guidance, it really opened my eyes to the dedication and hours Mentors commit to their students. The amount of support they offer to each student to ensure they achieve their goals, and attain the highest possible outcome, is truly admirable. When Tracey offered me a casual position at Master Key Mentoring, I was honoured to fulfil the important role of a Mentor: someone who has the power to unlock a student’s academic potential, individualise the lessons according to the student’s needs and learning styles and create an enjoyable and meaningful approach to learning.
I am thrilled and excited to take on this position because I sincerely believe that a positive and supported education is the key to determining one’s own future.
My specialist areas are Chemistry, Physics and Math B. I have always enjoyed the sciences and mathematics at school and I believe Mentoring is an amazing opportunity to share my passion and knowledge with students. I look forward to building good relationships with my students in the coming years and helping them grow in confidence!
Diane Nguyen
BSc – Science & General Math Mentor
I obtained my Bachelors of Science in June of 2015 from Mount Royal University in Calgary, Canada. Since then, I have relocated to the Gold Coast to further my studies as a Dental Science student at Griffith University.
read more
I have previously tutored students at university in the areas of Science (biology, physiology, microbiology, and anatomy), where I was able to share my own personal learning experiences and study techniques with my students that helped me to achieve success with my.
I am dedicated to higher learning and enjoy improving the overall success and wellbeing of students.
Jessica Wilson
BSc/GradDipEd (Studying) – Science & Math Mentor
I graduated from Gold Coast Griffith University with a Bachelor of Exercise Science in early 2016, and began my Graduate Diploma in Education this year, which I will complete at the end of 2016.
read more
I am super passionate about making learning fun. I love to get up and be active and interactive with content.
My subject strengths are Mathematics, Biology, Physics and Chemistry, I love everything to do with science whether it’s plants, animals and genetics, or even the laws of motion – it’s my jam. My sessions can be super structured, with specific help and focus required, or as free-flowing as discussions about certain aspects of these subjects that interest you.
I will happily help in any way possible and I always try to look on the bright side of life, especially when finding new and inventive ways to teach students who don’t quite grasp the content.
You’ve got to get there or be a number multiplied by itself (Square).
Sabina Shin
BSc/MSc – Science & Math Mentor
Before moving to sunny Australia, I previously completed a Bachelor of Science in Biology and continued my education with a Master of Science in Medical Sciences at McMaster University in Canada. I currently study dentistry at Griffith University.
read more
I fell into teaching and working with students unexpectedly. My first jobs as a Kumon instructor and lifeguard/swim instructor were the first sparks that inflamed my passion for teaching. I have had the opportunity to tutor an array of university and high-school students for the past eight years and it has been a rewarding experience. I love incorporating my past experiences as a student into how I adapt my own teaching styles to every student I have worked with. While my expertise lies in sciences and mathematics, I believe fostering life-long skills such as time management and goal setting build the true foundation for success; skills I teach to each of my students.
I look forward to working as Master Key Mentoring Mentor and helping develop these life-long skills within students.
Leon (Liang) Wang
BSc/MSc in Neuroscience – Science & Math Mentor
I completed my Bachelor of Science in Biology (2009) and Master of Science in Neuroscience (2015) at University of British Columbia in Canada. Currently, I am studying a Bachelor of Oral Health in Dental Science at Griffith University.
read more
During my MSc study at UBC, I mentored several undergraduate students on their research projects, one of whom was chosen to present their research at the university research conference. The experience of helping and witnessing the students discover their true interest and success was quite unique and amazing. Since then, I have discovered my own passion for teaching.
I believe that each student has his/her unique learning style and pace. My goal in teaching is not solving the problems for the students, feeding the answers to them; instead, I will consider myself very lucky and proud to play a part in helping students realize, and release, their own academic power. To me, we as teachers, are like matches and our first priority is to find and light the internal torch within each student where their energy source is. I hope that the students will not only gain a deeper understanding regarding concepts or questions from my mentoring, but more importantly, develop critical thinking and a genuine interest from which their future study will continue to benefit.
Mathematics
Mathematics B, Mathematics C, Numeracy
Coming Soon: Mathematics A
Calvin (Ziheng) Xu
Studying Bachelor of Medical Science – Math & Science Mentor, Mandarin Mentor
Hi everyone, How are you going? My name is Calvin Xu. I am currently studying a Bachelor of Medical Science at Griffith University and will be attending Griffith Medical School next year.
read more
I attended school in Brisbane at St. Laurence’s College and was lucky enough (and worked hard enough) to get an OP1.
I am a huge sport fan, and play basketball regularly. I also enjoy all types of music, ranging from Jazz to Hip-Hop.
My specialist as a Mentor, here at MKM, is Mathematics B, Chemistry and Chinese (mandarin). I believe that as a Mentor I can direct my students in the right direction of not only their studies, but to help them find passion in the subjects they choose. I am also passionate in discussions and talking to my students. It is always my goal to make sure they are developing both academically and mentally.
Maria Edwin
BSc, PostGradDipEd – Science Mentor
After a successful nine years of teaching students in the windy city of Wellington, New Zealand, I decided it was time for a change of scenery and moved to the sunny Gold Coast in April, 2014.
read more
My areas of expertise and passion lie within the sciences, mainly human sciences such as Biology, Physiology and Anatomy. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences) from the University of Otago, Dunedin in 2005 and completed further studies with a Graduate and Post Graduate Diplomas in Teaching and Special Education.
I am passionate about teaching and learning and love helping students achieve to the best of their academic abilities with tips and techniques that have been successful through my own teaching and learning experiences. I enjoy mentoring students as it gives me the opportunity to individualise and adapt lessons based on the needs and learning styles of students. My main goal is to use my expertise in offering different ways to understand concepts that students need support with.
By building a rapport with my students, I am looking forward in enabling them to grow in confidence and competence to excel in their subjects. I particularly enjoy seeing the progress of students that this targeted process of mentoring provides. I look forward to nurturing my students in achieving their goals and educational aspirations for this year!
My teaching areas include Biology, Science, Chemistry and Mathematics.
Rubini (Sivarubini) Mugunthan
Studying Bachelor of Dental Science – Science, Math & Physics Mentor
I graduated from AB Paterson College in 2015 as the Dux Proximae and an OP 1 student. I am currently pursuing my undergraduate studies in Bachelor of Oral Health in Dental Science at Griffith University.
read more
I am a Sir Samuel Griffith Scholarship recipient and a member of the Griffith Honours College.
Having been a mentee under Ms Tracey Daranjo’s guidance, it really opened my eyes to the dedication and hours Mentors commit to their students. The amount of support they offer to each student to ensure they achieve their goals, and attain the highest possible outcome, is truly admirable. When Tracey offered me a casual position at Master Key Mentoring, I was honoured to fulfil the important role of a Mentor: someone who has the power to unlock a student’s academic potential, individualise the lessons according to the student’s needs and learning styles and create an enjoyable and meaningful approach to learning.
I am thrilled and excited to take on this position because I sincerely believe that a positive and supported education is the key to determining one’s own future.
My specialist areas are Chemistry, Physics and Math B. I have always enjoyed the sciences and mathematics at school and I believe Mentoring is an amazing opportunity to share my passion and knowledge with students. I look forward to building good relationships with my students in the coming years and helping them grow in confidence!
Daniel Sciberras
BCom/BEcon/MAppFin/MBA. – Business & Math Mentor
I graduated from the University of Queensland in 2002 with a Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Economics. I then went on to graduate from Macquarie University in 2008 with a Master of Applied Finance.
read more
Most recently, I have graduated from the University of Queensland in 2015 with a Master of Business Administration (MBA).
My areas of expertise are in Maths, Economics and Business. I thoroughly enjoy teaching my students concepts in these areas using a variety of teaching styles tailored to the individual student. My objective is to ensure that my student not only picks up the concepts, but enjoys the learning process along the way!
I am looking forward to helping my students meet all their learning objectives over the coming years as a Learning Mentor for MKM.
Diane Nguyen
BSc – Science & General Math Mentor
I obtained my Bachelors of Science in June of 2015 from Mount Royal University in Calgary, Canada. Since then, I have relocated to the Gold Coast to further my studies as a Dental Science student at Griffith University.
read more
I have previously tutored students at university in the areas of Science (biology, physiology, microbiology, and anatomy), where I was able to share my own personal learning experiences and study techniques with my students that helped me to achieve success with my.
I am dedicated to higher learning and enjoy improving the overall success and wellbeing of students.
Jessica Wilson
BSc/GradDipEd (Studying) – Science & Math Mentor
I graduated from Gold Coast Griffith University with a Bachelor of Exercise Science in early 2016, and began my Graduate Diploma in Education this year, which I will complete at the end of 2016.
read more
I am super passionate about making learning fun. I love to get up and be active and interactive with content.
My subject strengths are Mathematics, Biology, Physics and Chemistry, I love everything to do with science whether it’s plants, animals and genetics, or even the laws of motion – it’s my jam. My sessions can be super structured, with specific help and focus required, or as free-flowing as discussions about certain aspects of these subjects that interest you.
I will happily help in any way possible and I always try to look on the bright side of life, especially when finding new and inventive ways to teach students who don’t quite grasp the content.
You’ve got to get there or be a number multiplied by itself (Square).
Sabina Shin
BSc/MSc – Science & Math Mentor
Before moving to sunny Australia, I previously completed a Bachelor of Science in Biology and continued my education with a Master of Science in Medical Sciences at McMaster University in Canada. I currently study dentistry at Griffith University.
read more
I fell into teaching and working with students unexpectedly. My first jobs as a Kumon instructor and lifeguard/swim instructor were the first sparks that inflamed my passion for teaching. I have had the opportunity to tutor an array of university and high-school students for the past eight years and it has been a rewarding experience. I love incorporating my past experiences as a student into how I adapt my own teaching styles to every student I have worked with. While my expertise lies in sciences and mathematics, I believe fostering life-long skills such as time management and goal setting build the true foundation for success; skills I teach to each of my students.
I look forward to working as Master Key Mentoring Mentor and helping develop these life-long skills within students.
Leon (Liang) Wang
BSc/MSc in Neuroscience – Science & Math Mentor
I completed my Bachelor of Science in Biology (2009) and Master of Science in Neuroscience (2015) at University of British Columbia in Canada. Currently, I am studying a Bachelor of Oral Health in Dental Science at Griffith University.
read more
During my MSc study at UBC, I mentored several undergraduate students on their research projects, one of whom was chosen to present their research at the university research conference. The experience of helping and witnessing the students discover their true interest and success was quite unique and amazing. Since then, I have discovered my own passion for teaching.
I believe that each student has his/her unique learning style and pace. My goal in teaching is not solving the problems for the students, feeding the answers to them; instead, I will consider myself very lucky and proud to play a part in helping students realize, and release, their own academic power. To me, we as teachers, are like matches and our first priority is to find and light the internal torch within each student where their energy source is. I hope that the students will not only gain a deeper understanding regarding concepts or questions from my mentoring, but more importantly, develop critical thinking and a genuine interest from which their future study will continue to benefit.
Creative Arts
Visual Art, Visual Design, Presentation Design, Drama, Organisation & Goal Setting
Tracey-Lee Daranjo
BA/BEd – Visual Arts Mentor
I graduated from the University of Queensland in 2002 with a Bachelor of Arts with majors in English, Classical History and History and a Bachelor of Education degree with a major in secondary education.
read more
Upon certification, I was awarded an ‘S1 – Outstanding’ in the practice of teaching which placed me amongst the top 5% of graduate teachers in Queensland in 2002.
Since then I have gained 10 years teaching experience as a classroom practitioner both within the public and private sectors within Australia and Manchester in the U.K. It was during my teaching in the U.K. that that I gained invaluable exposure to the benefit of individualised mentoring as part of weekly ‘Clinics’ that were run in schools to support student learning. Back in Australia, I voluntarily ran lunch and after school tutorials as well as departmental tutorials. I decided to undertake private tuition as a means to enhance student learning in both collaborative settings and through personalised one-on-one mentoring. My passion for education drives me to discover new and innovative ways for students to meet learning outcomes.
Teaching is my vocation in life! I spend most of my time as a private Mentor for university and high school students. I also am a Trainer for interactive technologies in the classroom. Additionally, I am a writing Mentor for job-seekers who need assistance with job applications including meeting selection criteria, letters of introduction and curriculum vitaes.
My teaching areas include English, Modern History, Ancient History, History, Studies of Religion, Drama and Art.
Melissa McArthur
Visual Design Mentor
I am a passionate, innovative and creative designer. I have plenty of design experience as a freelancer, studio designer, marketing designer and product designer at Guvera, Urban Harvest Gold Coast and Master Key Mentoring.
read more
Some of my favourite publishing works are Frankie Magazine, The Collective & Vogue Living which I use as a great source of stimulus for students to generate their own creative layouts and designs.
Working as a Design Mentor has enabled me to teach students the importance of original and creative PowerPoint presentations, feature articles, brochures and marketing pitches that are a key element of school criteria and using design as an important tool to engage with their audience in informative, persuasive and entertaining ways.
Hayley Axon
BA/BEd – Drama, Organisation and Goal Setting Mentor
I graduated from the University of Queensland with a double bachelor degree in Education and Arts in 2009 and have spent the last few years working in management.
read more
I have always had an interest in alternative and complimentary means of education that can work within the current framework of the education system.
My specialist areas are English and Drama and I am very passionate about both subject areas. I always enjoyed these subjects at school and I love sharing this passion and excitement with my students. I also provide sessions focused on organisation and goal setting. I believe that fostering skills in these areas allows for students (and adults!) to work to the best of their ability across all areas and to do so in a manner that is both encouraging of personal development and educational success.
I believe that education should be a holistic experience that facilitates growth in all aspects of students’ lives and allows them to succeed on a personal and professional level.
As a Mentor, I have the objective of not only assisting my students in becoming proficient in their chosen subjects but to also to develop lifelong skills that will help them to develop as learners and as individuals.
Languages
French, Mandarin
Marilyne Dufour
BEd – Special Education & Language Mentor
Bonjour everyone! My name is Marilyne Dufour, but in Australia I am known as Miss Mary! I am a French Canadian from Montréal, Québec and have settled here on the Gold Coast.
read more
I have a Bachelor of Education with a Special Needs specialisation. I have been working with children since 2002 in different areas of schooling; private tutoring, summer camps, birthday parties, sport activities and much more. My field of expertise in tutoring is mainly from Preparatory to Year 9, French immersion and Special Needs students.
I am really passionate about my career and my main objective is to help children and teenagers to realise their biggest dreams. I believe that with support, love and happiness, we can all achieve great things!
My teaching areas include Special Education, Primary Education and French.
Calvin (Ziheng) Xu
Studying Bachelor of Medical Science – Math & Science Mentor, Mandarin Mentor
Hi everyone, How are you going? My name is Calvin Xu. I am currently studying a Bachelor of Medical Science at Griffith University and will be attending Griffith Medical School next year.
read more
I attended school in Brisbane at St. Laurence’s College and was lucky enough (and worked hard enough) to get an OP1.
I am a huge sport fan, and play basketball regularly. I also enjoy all types of music, ranging from Jazz to Hip-Hop.
My specialist as a Mentor, here at MKM, is Mathematics B, Chemistry and Chinese (mandarin). I believe that as a Mentor I can direct my students in the right direction of not only their studies, but to help them find passion in the subjects they choose. I am also passionate in discussions and talking to my students. It is always my goal to make sure they are developing both academically and mentally.
