Since joining STEPS in 2021, Brooke has brought her creativity, empathy and a deep commitment to inclusive learning to her role as Head of Operations at STEPS Pathways Boarding College.
With a background in the performing arts and education support, her journey reflects a lifelong passion for understanding how people learn, grow and thrive when they feel supported.
From performing arts to inclusive education
Before joining STEPS, Brooke spent many years working in the arts industry in Melbourne, performing in musical theatre, touring productions, corporate events, and television roles. Alongside her performance career, she developed a strong interest in education, completing qualifications in training and assessment and education support.
Through teaching dance and movement classes for adults living with a disability, Brooke saw firsthand the powerful impact that inclusive, supportive learning environments can have on wellbeing, confidence and connection.
“I became really interested in how people learn, how behaviours develop, and how environments can be adapted to support different learners,” Brooke said.
After moving to Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Brooke discovered STEPS while browsing job listings and was immediately drawn to the organisation’s unique disability programs, particularly STEPS Pathways College.
“It felt like the perfect opportunity to combine my creative background with my passion for education and support work,” she said.
Growing with STEPS Pathways College
Brooke joined STEPS in 2021 as a Classroom Trainer before progressing through several roles, including Resource Writer and Classroom Coordinator. Each position helped deepen her understanding of STEPS Pathways College’s curriculum, students and operations.
Now, as Head of Operations for the Boarding College, Brooke works closely with team leaders, trainers, and support staff to ensure the College runs safely and smoothly.
Her role includes overseeing risk management, developing policies and processes, and coordinating communication between classrooms and departments such as HR, Marketing, and Finance.
“I often think of it as ‘joining the dots,’” Brooke said. “It’s about making sure everything works together so our students and staff are supported.”
Leading with purpose
One of Brooke’s key professional goals is to continue growing into her leadership role and strengthening her confidence in such a complex and rewarding position.
After completing her postgraduate qualification in Business Arts and Cultural Management, she has been able to apply her skills directly to her work at STEPS. For Brooke, supporting her team and ensuring consistent, values-based practice across the College is a major priority.
“I want everyone to understand how much goes into supporting STEPS Pathways College, from fundraising to community partnerships, so we can share that story with pride,” she said.
What Brooke enjoys most, however, remains unchanged. “My favourite part is still my interactions with our students,” she said. “They’re resilient, creative, and incredibly inspiring. They remind me every day of the power of this work.”
Balance, creativity and community
Outside of work, Brooke is a qualified yoga instructor and teaches on weekends. A passionate supporter of the arts, she also enjoys attending concerts, shows and gallery exhibitions whenever she can.
“If it’s in the arts, I’m there,” she said.
One of Brooke’s most meaningful highlights at STEPS has been growing alongside STEPS Pathways College and witnessing its evolution over time.
“Every milestone feels extra special when you know how much it matters to our students and their families,” she said.
Because of STEPS, Brooke says she has grown in her understanding of people, strengthened her confidence, and expanded her capacity as a leader and advocate.
“I’m stretched every day in my role,” she said. “It can be tiring, but it’s incredibly rewarding. I feel lucky to be part of an organisation where there’s always more to learn and more room to grow.”
About STEPS Spotlight
STEPS Spotlight is our way of celebrating the incredible people who make up the STEPS team.
Each month, we share the story of a staff member whose passion, dedication and unique journey help shape the heart of our organisation.
Stay tuned for more stories across the STEPS community, or in the meantime, revisit our previous profiles!
