Our Team

Erin Melbourne, BSW (Hons.), B.Ed, OCT, SSW

Welcome! I’m Erin and the founder of Reading Ready. For over 13 years, I have dedicated my professional career to delivering intensive, evidence-based learning interventions for children and adolescents navigating complex language learning differences, ADHD, Dyslexia, ASD, and executive functioning challenges. Holding an accredited Bachelor of Social Work (Hons.), and a Bachelor of Education, my practice bridges advanced educational instruction with a deep understanding of human development.

As an Ontario Certified Teacher and a specialized Learning Interventionist, I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. I use a strengths-based approach that helps children and youth recognize their talents while feeling empowered, fostering an environment where they continue to grow self-determination. My practice focuses on building highly individualized Orton-Gillingham programming with students from JK through to Grade 10. True learning cannot happen without psychological safety; that is why my sessions prioritize social-emotional support to help students dismantle performance anxiety, build resilience, and work to undo coping mechanisms they have built while potentially struggling in a classroom setting.

As a mother of three, I also understand firsthand the obstacles parents face when supporting a child with a learning difference and navigating the school system. Reading Ready was created to provide personalized literacy instruction that is nurturing and meets your son or daughter where they are. It is my goal that parents and guardians also feel encouraged and supported, while navigating systems that don’t always work to benefit your child.

I am proud to partner with families across Canada and beyond. These one-on-one, virtual sessions are designed to help students build self-confidence while improving their literacy skills. We focus on building the foundational tools, confidence, and independence your child needs for future success.

Catherine Oakley, B.A., B.Ed., OCT (retired)
Special Education, Specialist
English as a Second Language, Specialist

Reading Ready Consultant

I started my career in education in the Vancouver and Toronto public school systems. It quickly became apparent to me that the needs of students in a typical classroom environment were very diverse. I wanted to make a difference to every student so I began taking courses in special education and English as a second language.

I had two critical realizations; pupil teacher ratio clearly impacted the outcome of instruction and the current whims of curriculum did not address the needs of all children. My frustration was guiding me to find a place where I could teach not just curriculum but children as individuals with individual needs! I joined a newly started private school, Tutorial and Educational Assistance in Mississauga (TEAM) which was geared to individualized instruction for students in small group settings. It proved to be a very successful approach for the challenges faced by the students we worked with.

Upon a move to Ottawa, I was hired by the public school system for my special education background. Literacy was my priority. It was always a joy to watch students' confidence and self-esteem grow as they began to see themselves as readers. I was a school resource teacher for several years and then was hired to the role of Learning Support Consultant with the Ottawa Carleton District School Board (OCDSB). Although this position reduced my direct student contact, it also gave me the opportunity to support special education teachers and the LD Program teachers across the Board.

Although I am retired, my passion continues to support the teaching of reading. I work on a consultative basis with Reading Ready. I have seen great success with the students who have attended this program. Parents can be confident that rapport will be caringly established with their child.