Why Us
Discover more about us and why our personalised approach, small class sizes, and evidence-based practices make us the best choice for your child's early education.
What makes us different
Experienced educators
We have nearly 20 years of experience each and are dedicated to evidence-based practices grounded in the science of reading.
We are mums ourselves
As mums, we know firsthand the importance of enjoyable and engaging activities to spark curiosity and excitement.
Curriculum alignment
We align our programs with the Victorian Curriculum and the Victorian Early Years and Development Framework.
Effective phonics program
We are trained in Sounds-Write, a proven phonics program that successfully teaches children how to read and spell.
Engaging, hands-on learning
Our lessons are interactive and fun, incorporating games, music, craft, and play, which make it meaningful and memorable.
Dedicated learning space
We provide a consistent, permanent, and welcoming learning environment that fosters familiarity and a sense of security.
Our Approach
Recent studies, by the Department of Education SA, have shown that the use of phonics helps boost the percentage of students meeting literacy benchmarks from 43% to 71% (between 2018 to 2023).
We are certified Sounds-Write practitioners and incorporate this method, as well as the Little Learners Love Literacy program, into our teaching. Our classes are designed to teach children reading, writing, and spelling through an explicit, sequential approach.
Both Sounds-Write and Little Learners Love Literacy are grounded in the science of reading and have been proven to raise foundational literacy skills, helping children become confident and proficient readers and writers.
Meet the Directors
Hi, I'm Holly Small
I'm a primary school educator with nearly 20 years of experience. Trained in the UK with a specialisation in Early Years education, my teaching career has taken me from Scotland, to the Caribbean, and more recently to Australia.
In Australia, I've been a Literacy Coach and Learning Specialist, focusing on Prep to Year 2 students. My passion is structured literacy, especially phonics - a crucial foundation for reading, writing, and spelling success.
My journey in education has not only enriched my professional growth but has also deeply influenced my personal life as a parent. My dual experience as an educator and parent inspired me to co-found Ladybug Learning, dedicated to structured literacy and helping children excel in primary school.
I am committed to empowering parents and nurturing children's confidence from the very beginning.
Hi, I'm Desiree Oh
I'm one of the co-founders of Ladybug Learning. With nearly 20 years of experience as a qualified primary school teacher in both Australia and Singapore, I have had the pleasure of working with children from preschool through to Grade 4. I am deeply passionate about helping children develop the skills and knowledge they need to thrive and shine as individuals.
As a mum of two, I feel privileged to use my expertise to support my own children through the early years of their education, helping them transition smoothly into school life. I believe every child deserves a confident start to their educational journey to foster their love for learning.
This is why Ladybug Learning was founded – to support you and your children during this special and important time in their lives. We aim to nurture their inquisitive minds and provide them with the foundation to succeed and feel empowered as lifelong learners.