For Fiona Goding, teaching has always been about more than helping children learn to read and write. It's about making them feel understood, celebrating their achievements and helping them discover what they're capable of.
With more than 25 years of experience in primary education across Victoria and New South Wales, Fiona has dedicated much of her career to supporting children with different learning needs, including dyslexia.
Now, she's bringing that experience to The Literacy Nook, a new tutoring business in Coolamon, NSW, where children can receive personalised literacy support in a welcoming environment.
The idea began when Fiona offered to help a friend's child who had recently been diagnosed with dyslexia. As more families began seeking her assistance, she recognised a gap in specialised tutoring services in the region.
“For many local families, that typically involves travelling to Wagga Wagga,” Fiona explained. “Interestingly, around half of my students travel from Wagga to The Literacy Nook because they value the individualised support and the range of session times I offer.”
Fiona's understanding of these challenges also comes from personal experience. With a daughter who has ADHD and dyslexia, she knows firsthand how important it is for families to find the right learning environment for their children.
While Fiona had extensive teaching experience, turning her skills into a business was unfamiliar territory.
Her daughter Cassie, who has followed her own entrepreneurial path with two businesses, including a digital marketing agency, encouraged Fiona to take the leap, having previously received support through VERTO's Self-Employment Assistance program herself.
“Her belief in me gave me the confidence to take that first step,” Fiona said.
In May 2026, Fiona contacted VERTO and connected with Self-Employment Assistance Business Coach Nathaniel Dalgleish, who recommended she begin with Small Business Training before progressing to Small Business Coaching.
Fiona enrolled in the next available training course the following week.
Through the program, she developed a business plan and gained a better understanding of financial responsibilities, legal requirements and the practical aspects of business ownership.
Nathaniel also provided guidance on insurance and introduced Fiona to a professional association offering additional resources and connections.
“One of the most rewarding parts of being a Business Coach is working with people who have so much to offer but aren't quite sure how to turn their skills into a business. Fiona is a great example of someone who already had the experience and the drive. She just needed some guidance to help her get started,” Nathaniel said.
Meanwhile, Cassie complemented the support Fiona received through VERTO by putting her digital marketing expertise to use, designing The Literacy Nook's website and marketing materials, and teaching her mother how to use social media to connect with local families.
With her plans taking shape, Fiona launched The Literacy Nook, combining structured literacy teaching with songs, games, movement and activities tailored to each child's needs.
Within three months, she had completed her first term of tutoring and received nine five-star Google reviews from parents.
For Fiona, however, the most rewarding part has been the relationships she's built with children and their families.
“There is so much laughter in our sessions, and I love seeing children relax, have fun and discover that learning can be enjoyable,” Fiona said.
One moment that particularly stayed with her came when a student looked up during a tutoring session and said, “Mrs Goding, I think that you are a really good teacher.”
“It was such a simple comment, but it came from the heart, and it meant the world to me,” Fiona recalled.
Looking ahead, Fiona hopes to continue welcoming more families and supporting children throughout their school journey.
Starting The Literacy Nook has given Fiona a new way to share her love of teaching and build meaningful relationships with local families.
And whether it's mastering a new spelling rule, finding the courage to read aloud or achieving a personal goal, Fiona hopes to be there to celebrate every little milestone along the way.
To learn more about Fiona's work and the literacy support available through The Literacy Nook, visit www.theliteracynook.com.au.
For more information about the Self-Employment Assistance program, contact VERTO on 1300 483 786 or visit www.verto.org.au/our-services/self-employment-assistance.
