Introducing OLT Star Tutor
We're thrilled to feature Dr Fred Patchell as the latest OLT Australia Star Tutor. With over 50 cohorts delivered and a career built on genuine passion for inclusive education, Fred's multidisciplinary expertise and unwavering commitment to student success make him the perfect fit for Star Tutor status.
Fred's tutoring journey with OLT began in 2014 tor within Sydney Catholic Schools, and his impressive track record speaks for itself:
- 50+ cohorts delivered across a range of OLT courses, with a particular focus on Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN)
- 10+ years of continuous service, supporting the Diverse Learning Team and the wider Archdiocese
- Multidisciplinary background spanning teaching, speech pathology, and research — bringing exceptional depth to every cohort
- A valued mentor to new OLT tutors, helping maintain high standards of delivery of OLT courses
Fred embodies everything we value at OLT — expertise, dedication, and genuine care for student success. Fred doesn't just deliver courses; he creates meaningful professional learning experiences that shift attitudes, build confidence, and ultimately improve outcomes for students with diverse needs.
– Trish Rymer | Education Consultant - OLT Australia
Since 2014, Dr Fred Patchell has made a significant contribution to capacity-building within Sydney Catholic Schools as an OLT tutor. His multidisciplinary background has been particularly beneficial for staff undertaking the SLCN course, where his ability to bridge theory and practice is highly regarded. His influence extends beyond his own tutoring — Fred also plays an important role in mentoring new OLT tutor in Sydney Catholic Schools. We are pleased to see Fred recognised as a Star Tutor. This acknowledgement reflects his long-term dedication to diverse learning and his commitment to supporting our staff and school communities. We thank him for his continued service and his focus on improving educational outcomes for all students.
– Sydney Catholic Schools
When asked about his approach to tutoring, Fred reflects on what drives his passion for this work:
My Irish parents introduced me to a saying that has lately gained resonance among inclusive educators: "Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine" — "in the shelter of each other, the people live." It suggests that because humans are universally vulnerable, a flourishing society must value interdependence and commit to meeting the unique needs of every individual.
I am particularly passionate about OLT forum discussions. Beyond the standard prompts, a bespoke question can spark a discussion that truly transforms attitudes and practice. I'm forever amazed at the depth of talent and professionalism participants bring to each cohort — I continue to learn so much from them.
– Dr Fred Patchell | OLT Tutor
Participants who have completed courses with Fred reflect on the impact of his tutoring:
Thank you for this comprehensive and most informative course — it has changed and improved how I meet the needs of my students. It was extraordinarily presented. All teachers should be doing these courses.
After completing this course, I feel I have more confidence and better strategies to support students in my class. I also liked that it reassured me I am already on the right track.
I really enjoyed the course, and I am able to implement what I learned, which is already benefiting my students' learning.
We'd like to recognise Fred's outstanding contribution and thank him for over a decade of dedication to improving outcomes for teachers and the students they support.
We're incredibly proud to name Dr Fred Patchell an OLT Star Tutor.
Congratulations, Fred, on this well-deserved recognition — and thank you for 10 remarkable years of service!