Josephine Opie
Educator and Author
Josephine is an educator, author, and founder of PosAbilities, a Not-for-Profit NDIS provider supporting autistic young people to transition from school to independence and meaningful work. Her career has taken her from regional classrooms to Aboriginal communities in Arnhem Land, where she developed a passion for supporting disadvantaged, First Nations, and neurodiverse students.
Alongside her education work, Josephine writes children’s books inspired by the people, culture, and wildlife of Australia’s Top End.
Available for pre-order
The Fancy Dress Ball
Written by Josephine Opie. Illustrated by Billy Rose. For ages 4-8 years.
Bill and Beryl Buffalo celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary with a dress-up ball, and all the animals in the Top End come to the party. But where is Tanya Turtle?
Readers of this joyful rhyming picture book will have lots of fun discovering all the animals of Arnhem Land and spotting one cheeky turtle who loves to hide.
My passion for enhancing the lives of those who may not fit neatly in the white, neurotypical world came from the realisation that our community is in deficit from not having their meaningful contribution to our society. First Nations culture seems far more complex and compassionate than we would care to imagine, and the neurodiverse perspectives and talents are wasted without recognition and understanding on how best to utilise them. We are a far less informed or enriched society without seeking knowledge and finding ways to learn from our vulnerable, yet gifted sisters and brothers. They offer us so much. We’d be crazy not to grab that offer! Working with Billy, an autistic first nations young man, he has taught me way more than I could ever teach him.
- Josephine
“A consultation with Jo, for me, as an educator of neuro-diverse students, has helped me balance my creative programing with the rigour of syllabi requirements. Her personable approach is grounded in the realities of day to day classroom dynamics, she inspires and encourages me to aspire for optimum outcomes of the students in my class. If you are considering a mentorship with Jo, do not hesitate to engage this inspiring woman who has a plethora of advice for teachers of Inclusive education. She keeps it real, encouraging you to balance your own goals with achieving those of your students. Ideas, strategies and evidence-based practice combine to result in a worthwhile investment of your precious teacher time."
Liz
“I came to Jo seeking help in recovering from professional burnout, and how to move from it into a satisfying semi-retired life. Jo offered a logical and methodical approach to analysing the frustrations and obstacles I faced, and identifying solutions to them. This approach has been really successful in providing good insights and information on how to move forward in logical and achievable steps. Additionally, Jo's ability to personally connect and clearly communicate has made the process fun, easy and motivating. My experience has been excellent and I can highly recommend Jo's services.”
Peter
“Jo empowers you to be your best possible self.”
Janine
“Josephine is an experienced educator, support specialist and therapist and her amazing skills will keep anyone feeling supported.”
Cathy
“Very professional in everything she does.”