Our Team

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

I am the founder of Reading Ready and an Ontario Certified Teacher with a background in social work. My career has always focused on making a difference in the lives of children and youth. Over the years, I’ve worked in an Educational Centre for children with Autism, a Youth Services Centre, a group home, and a Crisis Public Outreach Centre. These experiences shaped my strengths-based, compassionate approach to teaching.

Since becoming a teacher in 2012, I have focused on Special Education, Literacy, and Family Studies. I am Orton-Gillingham trained and have supported students from Kindergarten through grade 12 with diverse learning challenges and behavioural needs. My approach is intentional, supportive and enthusiastic, with a direct focus on helping students build both literacy skills and confidence.

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, one-on-one literacy instruction that is both nurturing and empowering—an experience designed to meet your child where they are and help them grow beyond what is often possible in a busy classroom setting.

Together, we’ll help your child build the skills, confidence, and independence they need to thrive.

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.