Sharon
Sharon is a highly accomplished and well-rounded mentor with an extensive teaching background spanning over 30 years. Her diverse roles and experiences include working in disadvantaged schools' programs in the Western Suburbs of Sydney and holding executive positions where she organised comprehensive whole-school welfare programs. Relocating to Victoria, she furthered her expertise by completing a Master of Education in Language Intervention and Hearing Impairment, excelling as a dedicated Teacher of the Deaf.
As Ebony has now retired, Sharon is excited to continue this journey with her younger dog Mr Rufus, an apricot standard poodle. She looks forward to having him by her side as he brings his happy and curious nature to their work.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Sharon's role as a devoted mother to two young adults has granted her a unique perspective on the education system from a parents' point of view. Having navigated two distinct educational journeys with her children, she deeply understands the importance of diverse student support systems and the challenges in finding suitable services for both students and parents. This first-hand experience fuels her passion for providing access to quality education for all.
Mr Rufus
Rufus is a 4-year-old, apricot standard poodle. Rufus has a happy, curious
personality that brings a smile to the face of everyone he meets. His tail wags constantly and it only ever stops when he is in a deep sleep. As a younger dog, he is energetic, keen to be involved in everything that is happening, but has a gentle approach, especially around children and the elderly.
He is a much-loved family member. His family consists of two human parents, a human brother and sister (both adults) and a dog sister Ebony. When he is not working, Rufus loves being involved in day to day life and as the youngest member of the family, he must always be part of the action. He loves long walks – particularly on the beach - and he sets a good pace as a running partner. He loves a game of catch and is increasing his trick repertoire to bring to his role at CC.
Rufus has big paws to fill as his sister Ebony was a beloved therapy dog at Canine Comprehension. Ebony has recently retired from working at the age of 13 and is looking forward to quiet time with Rufus away at work. Rufus aims to follow in Ebony’s paw prints as he brings joy and assists students in his new role working with Canine Comprehension.