Susan Feez

Susan Feez is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the School of Education, Faculty of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences and Education at the University of New England (UNE), Australia. She is a member of the English, Literacies and Languages Education (ELLE) team, where she contributes to research and pedagogy in language and literacy education, with a focus on systemic-functional linguistics, multiliteracies, and Montessori education.

• PhD (University of Sydney)
• MEd: Language in Education (University of Sydney)
• Dip Ed: Infants/Primary (Armidale CAE)
• Dip Ed: TESOL (Latrobe)
• BA (University of Queensland)
• Certificate in Adult TESOL (ACL, Sydney)
• Diploma in Montessori Elementary Education (Association Montessori Internationale, Bergamo, Italy)
• Diploma in Montessori Early Childhood Education (Sydney Montessori Teachers' College)

Susan Feez's research centers on language and literacy development, pedagogy, and assessment, with a strong emphasis on the literacy demands of the curriculum. She explores multimodal representations of knowledge, applying social semiotics and systemic-functional linguistics to educational contexts. Her work in Montessori education investigates how language and literacy are mediated in early childhood and elementary settings, bridging historical practice with contemporary theory. She also specializes in EAL/D (English as an Additional Language or Dialect) education, supporting inclusive practices in mainstream classrooms.

Her recent publications reflect a sustained engagement with functional grammar, genre-based writing instruction, multimodal learning, and Montessori pedagogy. Themes across her articles include the integration of phonics with meaning-making, the role of dialogue in learning, and the adaptation of Montessori principles in multilingual and multicultural settings. Her work is highly applied, aiming to translate academic research into practical classroom strategies.

Susan Feez has been recognized for her contributions to educational publishing, notably winning the Educational Publishing Awards Australia 2019 in the Primary: Reference Resource category. She is an active member of several professional organizations including the Australian Systemic Functional Linguistics Association (ASFLA), PETAA, ALEA, ATESOL NSW, ACTA, and the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI).

Susan Feez collaborates with researchers and educators across Australia and internationally. While no formal advisees are listed, her editorial and co-authorship roles suggest mentorship and academic leadership. She has contributed to curriculum development projects, including the Montessori National Curriculum and training materials for adult and community education. Her work demonstrates a commitment to equity, accessibility, and innovation in language and literacy education.

Susan Feez is actively involved in academic communities through conference presentations, plenary talks, and research collaborations. Her work spans historical analysis, theoretical development, and practical application, particularly in literacy education and Montessori pedagogy. She maintains strong links with professional networks and continues to publish influential resources for teachers and researchers.