Coming from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences ATP tutors have the skills to provide tailored support, no matter where you are on your study journey.
Whether you're studying on campus or completely online, any Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander student enrolled in a pathway, undergraduate or postgraduate program at UniSA is eligible to access support from ATP tutors.
Tutors are available free of charge across UniSA's Metropolitan and regional locations. Select your local campus below to get to know the ATP tutors and find out how they can support you to succeed.
If you're interested in becoming an ATP tutor, click here to find out more.
Qualifications
PhD, Visual Art & Design (RTP Scholarship) University of South Australia
Cert IV 40116 Training & Assessment Auctus Training & Education, SA
Bachelor Visual Arts (Honours) University of South Australia
Grad. Diploma Community Cultural Development Community Arts Network of South Australia
Bachelor of Ceramic Design, University of South Australia
Professional Certificate in University Teaching, University of South Australia
Background
My background is in the visual arts, making public art and teaching. I like keeping fit; paddling, yoga practice and cycling to work. The students I’ve tutored are enrolled in many different courses from Foundation Studies to Masters Degrees.
What would your superpower be and why?
My superpower is taking on new challenges!
I’m not at all afraid to try new things. Last year I started doing a weekly 5km run and canoe polo. This summer I swam the Henley to Grange Jetty swim. I like to take on new creative projects and mental challenges too.
Qualifications
Background
With a background in Commerce and Business I am passionate about helping others succeed with a focus on student mentorship and how best to translate university studies into real world career choices. I love the simple things in life; good food, good wine and being around friends and family.
If you could live anywhere in the world for a year, where would it be?
Italy
Qualifications
Bachelor of Arts (Psychology & Anthropology)
Graduate Certificate in Adult Literacy
Masters of Education (Language and Literacy)
PhD, Social Work and Social Policy, University of South Australia
Background
I recently moved to Adelaide from Alice Springs where I worked for many years with Aboriginal organisations and communities as an adult educator, researcher and community development practitioner. I started with ATP in 2022 and am passionate about supporting students become skilled and successful learners. I love reading, hiking, good conversations and am a keen photographer.
You have your own late night talk show, who do you invite as your first guest?
Rachel Perkins! A brilliant Arrernte/Kalkadoon filmmaker, Director, Screenwriter and Producer whom I would love to yarn with about story-telling and truth-telling.
Qualifications
Bachelor of nursing
Bachelor of paramedic science
Certificate IV in mental health
Advanced life support
Basic life support trainer/assessor
Resus/Triage Nurse competent
Background
I have been an ATP tutor for 3 years. I am Aboriginal of Gurindji descent, and passionate about assisting Aboriginal peoples learning, improving study outcomes and achieving goals. I am married with two children. I love the beach and travelling with my family, exploring and finding hidden places.
If you could live anywhere in the world for a year, where would it be?
If I could live anywhere in the world for a year, I would live in Japan.
Qualifications
Bachelor of Applied Science (Human Movement)
Master of Dietetics
Background
I have been a proud member of the Aboriginal Tutoring Program since 2017. I enjoy spending time with students, hearing their stories, developing strong relationships, and helping them develop personally and academically. Outside of UniSA, I work as an animal nutritionist, a profession which also fills me with much pride.
If you had to eat one meal every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Spaghetti bolognese with meatballs.
Qualifications
Bachelor of Health Sciences (Hons)
Bachelor of Midwifery
Graduate Diploma in Environmental Health Practice
Doctor of Philosophy
Professional Certificate in University Teaching
Background
I’ve been an ATP tutor since 2016 and have experience tutoring both undergraduate and postgraduate students. My interest is in supporting students develop their academic writing skills and helping them adapt to university life. When not tutoring, I’m making something at a pottery class or chasing after a very active pre-schooler!
If you had to eat one meal everyday for the rest of your life what would it be?
That is a no brainer - pizza for sure! So many different toppings, main meal, dessert… the options are endless AND it is delicious!
Qualifications
Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood)
Master of Aboriginal Studies
PhD Candidate with Education Futures
Background
I am a non-Aboriginal White settler, the third generation raised in Tarntanya (Adelaide) on magnificent, unceded Kaurna Land. My maternal line of grandmothers are from the Purtell and Prendergast clans of County Tipperary, Ireland. My father’s family are from Kent, England.
I am a PhD candidate with the University of South Australia’s Centre for Research in Educational and Social Inclusion. I have spent over a decade teaching and learning with adults and work currently as a sessional academic with University of South Australia in both Justice and Society and Education Futures academic units.
I earned a Master of Aboriginal Studies in 2021, whilst working as Anti-racism Project Officer for Reconciliation SA. My current PhD research focusses on racisms, social justice, Whiteness, and colonialism in education.
If you had a time machine, would go back in time or into the future and why?
I would be happy to travel to anywhere! I think the opportunity for different stories and perspectives are always available if I open my ears and heart.
Qualifications
Bachelor of Social Science (Human Services)
Master of Social Work
Background
I am a Greek and Wiradjuri woman who currently works as a student counsellor, and I’m passionate about helping students navigate their studies, no matter what life throws at them. With over a decade of experience in the human services industry, I’ve worked across international settings, as well as in the Northern Territory and South Australia. While much of my career has focused on counselling, crisis intervention, child and family support, mental health, AOD, and homelessness, I’m deeply interested in politics, human rights, social services, and advocating for the inclusion of First Nations perspectives in education and government systems.
What would your superpower be and why?
I’d love the power to instantly heal people from any pain—physical, psychological, or emotional. Healing others would bring so much joy, because seeing someone able to move forward without the burden of pain would be the most rewarding thing.
Qualifications
Bachelor of Psychology (Honours)
Background
I am a researcher and Online Tutor at UniSA. I have worked in mental health research for the past 15 years. My main areas of research include addiction, psycho-oncology, eyewitness testimony, carers’ well-being, and sport psychology. In addition, I also work as a tutor and student assessor for several Psychology and Health topics, including Aboriginal Australians and Psychology, at UniSA. I find Psychology fascinating, and I enjoy helping students who are keen to learn about it. In my free time, I like to read, go to theatre, and attend live music events.
You have your own late night talk show, who do you invite as your first guest?
This would have to be one of the Positive Psychology leaders (e.g., Martin Selingman). I believe that focusing on our individual strengths and resources can build up our resilience and improve our overall wellbeing.
What was your dream job as a child?
As a child, I wanted to become a teacher! While my idea of what would be my dream job has been changing over the years, I guess I have come back to my original love of teaching and helping students to learn and improve.
Qualifications
Teaching at UniSA, including statistical analysis, research processes, science communication, computer skills, biology and ecology
Extensive experience in ecological fieldwork and research
Undergrad studies included Biology, Chemistry, Ecology and Maths
Background
Growing up in the Rocky Mountains USA, I spent my childhood hiking and cross-country skiing. This immersion in the natural world led me to study Environmental Science. Although I no longer encounter moose, elk and bears on my hikes, I am fascinated by the natural environments in SA.
If you could live anywhere in the world for a year, where would it be?
I would love the opportunity to live in Yellowstone. I would like to experience the change of seasons with the green and flowers of spring and the quiet stillness of snow in the winter. I would love to hear the wolves that have been reintroduced.
Qualifications
PhD in Applied Physics
M.Sc. in Electrical Power Engineering
B.Sc. in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Background
I’ve been an ATP tutor for over 10 years and have delivered over 15 topics in Math and Physics at UniSA. I enjoy teaching as it provides opportunities to learn new material and connect with students. Whether it's researching a topic connected to a student's interests or inquiries, or coming up with innovative ways to prepare something, it's all part of the journey.
What would your superpower be and why?
My superpower is "Mind Move"(ref. Raising Dion), as I move myself with my mind, it also represents the unit of acceleration.
Qualifications
Bachelors of Electronics and Microengineering (First Class Honours)
Master of Engineering
Background
I am originally from Singapore and came to UniSA as an international student. Now I live in regional South Australia. I was an Academic with UniSA for about 15 years before working in the Heavy Industry, Consulting and Government sectors. I enjoy connecting with people, understanding their challenges and formulating a strategy to overcome it with them. My day job is working in the policy sphere; always in awe of the complexities that transpires in the moving cogs that simply put, makes the world go round!
What’s the best quote you have heard?
"The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects it to change. The leader adjusts the sails.” -John Maxwell
Qualifications
Certificate 1V Training and Assessment (TAE) TAFE SA
Certificate IV Career Development TAFE SA
Master of Education (by research) RMIT, Melbourne, Victoria
Executive Diploma in Business Planning: Enterprise Workshops
Bachelor of Education (Curriculum Leadership) University of SA
Background
I enjoy seeing students making progress and achieve their goals. I also tutor Business students and Course Coordinate for UniSA courses in Project Management for Public and Community Health courses that I wrote. I’m a passionate gardener and have 200 acres that I manage with my partner.
If you could live anywhere in the world for a year, where would it be?
Spain, such a big country with great food, great wine and a fabulous culture, history and attitude.
Qualifications
Diploma of Teaching (Junior Primary), South Australian College of Advanced Education
Diploma of Training and Assessment, TafeSA
Certificate IV Language, Literacy and Numeracy Assessment and Training, TAFE SA
Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, TAFE SA
Background
Based on Eyre Peninsula, I have 30 years teaching experience across all ages through my various roles with SA Department of Education, Tafe SA and UniSA. I am motivated by supporting Aboriginal Peoples to work towards Higher Education qualifications and achieve their personal goals. This is my way of giving back to the community that has shared so much with me over my adult lifetime.
Best piece of advice
“….appreciate how far you’ve come….. and then keep going”.
Qualifications
Certificate 3 in Community Services, TAFE SA
Certificate 4 in Community & Aged Care, TAFE SA
Statement of Attainment in Enrolled Nursing, TAFE SA
Bachelor of Nursing, University of South Australia
Graduate Certificate in Health (Emergency Nursing), Flinders University
International Institute of Palliative and Supportive Studies, Flinders University
Basic Life Support Instructor, ANMF
Advanced Life Support Instructor, EMET/MEDSTAR
Background
I am a Clinical Nurse and have spent many of my 25 years of my nursing profession as clinical educator, program facilitator and lecturer, student support tutor and mentor, and in haemodialysis. I have been a scholarship recipient awarded by the Royal College of Nursing, SA Health and Palliative Care Australia. I come from an extensive academic Indigenous family network who are the Larrakia people of Darwin in the Northern Territory. As an ATP Tutor I am passionate to provide supportive tutorial services and assistance to Aboriginal people working towards academic achievement.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“You are what you believe yourself to be."
Qualifications
Bachelor of Education (Elementary Education andTeaching), Charles Darwin University
Graduate Diploma in Education (Adult, Vocational & Workplace Learning), University of South Australia
Bachelor of Technology (Ecotourism), Flinders University
Certificate IV in Training & Assessment (Education), TAFE SA
Background
Having spent my first 18 years living in a National Park on the Fleurieu Peninsula, then moving to ‘the big smoke’ to study Ecotourism, conducting nature tours, living and teaching on country in the APY Lands and now contently living on the Eyre Peninsula with my family, one would say that being on country is in my blood – let’s be honest, it’s my ‘happy place’.
I’ve been teaching primary, secondary and tertiary students for over 20 years, and although I hope I’ve supported and guided students to realise their potential and broaden their skills and knowledge, I too have learnt so much from those who have crossed my path. I look forward to continuing this learning journey with you.
If you could live anywhere in the world for a year, where would it be?
Argentina! I LOVE the vibrant culture, the people, the food and the diverse landscape!!
Qualifications
Bachelor of Arts (Journalism)
Graduate Diploma Teaching and Learning
AITSL Certified Lead Teacher
Background
I was born and raised in Whyalla, and although I left for a short time for University I returned to this great place. I initially pursued a passion in journalism straight out of school, but after my husband and I started a family I went back to University to study Teaching. I love teaching and being part of helping people (adults and children) recognise their full potential in everything they do. My other passion is sport, especially basketball!
If you had to eat one meal every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Roast lamb and vegetables with gravy. There is nothing better than a good roast!
Interested in providing tailored learning support to Aboriginal students to maximise learning outcomes and achieve their full potential? Want to work closely with UniSA’s student services and gain valuable experience in tutoring and academia? Download the ATP Tutor Handbook to learn more about what the program has to offer.
To register your interest in becoming an ATP Tutor:
Your one-stop-shop for student services. UniSA general enquiries: 1300 301 703.