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Welcome to Kids Biz Collective – where homeschooling families find an empowering community, and children discover their strengths, confidence, and purpose! At Kids Biz, we go beyond traditional learning by offering weekly, hands-on experiences that fuse business skills with real-world problem-solving. Here, children don’t just learn—they thrive, developing entrepreneurial thinking, creativity, and resilience through projects that prepare them for the future.
Our two-and-a-half-hour sessions are more than just classes; they’re transformative adventures that immerse kids in collaborative challenges, spark curiosity, and build lifelong skills. From managing projects to brainstorming solutions, every activity is designed to nurture independence, leadership, and academic growth.
Ready to see your child flourish in a supportive, inspiring environment? Join us at Kids Biz Collective and watch them unlock potential, ignite curiosity, and embrace the skills to succeed.
Empowering Young Minds for a Bold Future!
Who am I
Welcome, my name is Mel, and since 2006, I have been on a remarkable journey in the field of education, driven by a fervent desire to nurture and inspire future generations.
My Journey and Professional Background
I began my career in Secondary Education, specialising in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). My role quickly evolved, and by 2011, I was appointed Head of Department. This pivotal position allowed me to delve deep into the Australian Curriculum, creating invaluable resources for the Western Australian Curriculum Council. In that same year, I transitioned into tertiary education, lecturing and mentoring aspiring teachers at The University of Notre Dame. My tenure in higher education continued at the University of Western Australia until 2016, when life took a beautiful turn, leading our family to relocate to the Pilbara.
In 2017, I discovered a newfound love for Primary Education, immersing myself in teaching across all year groups at a local primary school. Another relocation brought us to Mackay, Queensland, where I joined a Catholic Primary School in 2022. There, I have had the privilege of working predominantly with Year Two students while also relieving across various year groups, including Physical Education.
My Family and Personal Growth
I am blessed with three beautiful children. In 2023, we embarked on an extraordinary journey, traveling across Australia as a family. During this period, I had the privilege of homeschooling my children, which profoundly reshaped my understanding of homeschooling education. This unique experience allowed me to create targeted, adaptive, interest-focused, and life-centered educational experiences tailored to their individual needs.
That was when Kids Biz, essential learning with mindful connections was born.
At Kids Biz, we’re excited to offer a unique and personalised experience with small group sizes to ensure each child receives the attention they deserve. To help ensure our program is the right fit for your family, we invite you to join us for a friendly meet-and-greet. During this time, you’ll have the chance to explore our outdoor classroom, meet Mel, and get a feel for our approach. After our chat, we’ll follow up to discuss the next steps and offer your child a place in our program if it’s the perfect match! We can’t wait to connect with you and your child!
Each session is $50 for a 2.5-hour class. Our program runs on a term basis, so for a 10-week term, the total cost is $500. In addition, there is a $50 term fee that covers stationery, technology use, and other materials.
We require a 50% payment upfront to secure your spot, and flexible payment plans are available for the remaining balance. Please feel free to reach out to us to discuss payment options that best suit your needs.
No, our program is a term-based 10-week commitment that you sign up for in advance. The only exception is for traveling families who may be staying in Mackay for at least two weeks. In such cases, we can arrange a set number of weeks on a case-by-case basis. If this applies to you, please get in touch, and we’ll be happy to discuss your options.
We understand that plans can change! If you’re away during the term, there may be flexibility to attend a different workshop day for that week. Alternatively, I may be able to run the session via Zoom, depending on the situation. We’re happy to work with you on a case-by-case basis to ensure your child doesn’t miss out on the experience!
Kids Biz offers a 2.5-hour small group teaching environment, where each child receives personalised support to meet them where they are and help them unlock their potential. Our workshops focus on helping children recognise and develop their individual skill sets. All stationery and technology devices needed during the sessions will be provided for the students to use while at the workshops.
At Kids Biz, we understand that some children may feel shy, nervous, or uncertain in new environments. We believe in supporting the whole child, and our goal is to help every child feel comfortable and confident. Throughout the program, your child will learn emotional regulation strategies to manage their feelings. We also have a dedicated calm corner, equipped with toys, fidget materials, and emotional regulation tools. Your child can also use music or essential oils to create a soothing environment that helps them feel more in control. I am here to support your child every step of the way!
Mel holds a Bachelor of Education with Honours from Curtin University (2004) and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Notre Dame University (2010). Her teaching journey began in secondary education, where she specialised in Information and Communication Technologies and led as Head of Business and Technology at Aquinas College. Mel’s passion for teaching led her to lecture at Notre Dame University, mentoring new teachers on integrating technology in the classroom. In 2015, she began teaching ICT teachers at the University of Western Australia. After becoming a mother, she discovered her true calling in supporting younger children’s emotional and critical development. Since 2017, Mel has dedicated herself to primary education, predominantly teaching Year 2 students in Mackay, with a focus on nurturing confidence, emotional regulation, and individual growth.
What is Kids Biz?
Empowering Young Minds Program Overview
Welcome to our dynamic 10-week Empowering Young Minds Program, specially designed for children aged 6-12 years old. This term-based program runs four times a year, with each term delving into a unique and engaging theme that fosters personal growth, teamwork, and community awareness.
Program Highlights:
- Term Structure: Our program consists of four 10-week terms throughout the year.
- Weekly Sessions: Each week features a 2.5-hour hands-on session.
- Target Age Group: Ideal for children aged 6-12 years old.
- Life-Based Curriculum: Blending essential life skills with academic learning for a comprehensive educational experience.
Term Themes:
1. Self-Discovery: Children explore who they are, their unique skills, and what makes them special.
2. Partnership Dynamics: Working in pairs, children learn to create, market and manage a small business.
3. Team Collaboration: Participants engage in a full team business project, taking on specific roles to achieve common goals.
4. Community Impact: Focus on identifying community issues and developing practical projects that provide meaningful solutions.
Why Choose Our Program?
- Self-Paced Learning: Children can progress at their own pace, ensuring they fully grasp each concept.
- Practical & Hands-On: Interactive and experiential learning for effective skill development.
- At the end of each term you will receive an annotated workbook that you can utilise in your home schooling reports.
Enrol today to empower your child's journey toward self-discovery, teamwork, and community contribution. Together, we can build a brighter future for them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Register your interest
Kids Biz
Mel Pustkuchen | 0418892225 | kidsbizcollective@gmail.com
Located in West Mackay, Queensland