About
Annarie’s journey into education began with her first love: ballet. From a young age, dance gave her structure, expression and a sense of belonging. Movement was her language – a way to understand the world, regulate emotion and build confidence.
That world changed when her family moved to Zambia and the studios, teachers and training she depended on disappeared. Instead of letting movement leave her life, she found another path: she began training as a teacher. By 15, she had passed her teaching exams and opened her first school – not because it was easy, but because it was the only way to keep movement alive for herself and the children around her.
Those early years taught her resilience, creativity and leadership. She discovered that movement could be taught anywhere, and that it could support emotional regulation, sensory processing, communication and confidence – especially for children who struggle with traditional learning.
Today, movement remains at the heart of her work. Whether supporting early years and SEN learners or contributing to programmes within Tapping Frog’s Education Hub, she uses movement not as performance, but as a way of helping children feel safe, confident and connected.
What I Do
Movement‑Based Education
Using movement as a primary learning tool to support sensory integration, emotional regulation and confidence in early years and SEN settings.
Creative Learning
Designing playful, embodied learning experiences where people explore rhythm, story and imagination through their bodies as well as their minds.
Collaboration with Tapping Frog
Contributing to TF’s Education Hub, developing movement‑based approaches and programmes that support schools, families and creative partners.
Teaching Approach
Movement is often the first language children speak. Annarie’s approach is grounded in the belief that children learn best when their bodies are engaged. Her work focuses on:
- Supporting sensory integration and emotional regulation through movement.
- Creating inclusive, child‑centred environments for early years and SEN learners.
- Using creative movement to build confidence, communication and connection.
Her philosophy is rooted in lived experience: losing access to formal dance training, becoming a teacher at 15, and discovering that movement can be a powerful tool for resilience and learning.