The team members who make up Academe Time
Our director
Lara Wiser (Sacher)
Meet Lara, the Academe Time creator of children’s programs bringing fun, imagination, play and learning across Melbourne. Lara is a passionate and experienced educator with a wealth of experience as a teacher, performer and producer who loves what Academe Time can do for children’s confidence.
Passionate about teaching drama both for the art of drama and the enhancement of life skills, Academe Time continues to grow and fulfill the vision Lara has for all children to gain the benefits of self development. She loves bringing confidence, imagination, communication, and social skills to children of all ages.
With a Masters Degree in Primary Education, Lara has over ten years of teaching experience in roles such as Primary School Teacher, Literacy Coordinator and many months abroad teaching English to under-resourced and in-need communities in El Salvador, Central America.
Lara also has a Licentiate Degree in Speech and Drama with the Trinity School of London and has forever been passionate about teaching drama to children.
As a performer, Lara has had a very successful performance career, most notably playing the ongoing role of Serena Bishop for three years in one of Australia’s favourite series, Neighbours.
Additionally, she has performed in various plays and TV commercials and toured England, playing the lead role of Beauty in the ‘Beauty and the Beast’ pantomime.
Lara leads a team of talented teachers who share her love of helping children learn, grow and discover more about themselves and the world through Academe Time programs.
Meet Chenelle, our passionate and versatile leader of our Childcare and Holiday Programs, and further thrives as a Facilitator! With a Diploma of Musical Theatre from Jason Coleman’s Ministry of Dance, Chenelle’s journey spans over 12 years of teaching performing arts disciplines including Musical Theatre, Hip Hop, Jazz, Drama, and vocal coaching—alongside 6 years of experience performing both on stage and on screen.
As both a teacher and leader with Academe Time, Chenelle draws from her passion and expertise to lead programs that allow children to explore their interests and grow while fostering their confidence, empathy, and a sense of belonging.
Outside of work, Chenelle enjoys playing tennis, painting, and swimming. Known for dancing before she could walk and singing before she could talk, Chenelle brings her love and passion for the arts and learning to Academe Time, where she continues to make every moment count for the young minds she guides!
Meet Mikhaela, our effervescent leader of the Primary School program at Academe Time! With a Bachelor of Contemporary Arts in Drama & Dance, Mikhaela infuses creativity and passion into her role leading our primary and holiday programs, adeptly managing and connecting with staff, schools, and families to craft memorable experiences for children that build their confidence.
Mikhaela not only oversees the program but also teaches drama and dance, inspiring students to excel creatively in an environment where children can freely express and share their creativity. Her favorite part of Academe Time is the supportive community and the impactful experiences that make every day rewarding.
Outside of work, Mikhaela enjoys time with her children on various adventures in nature, whether it’s bushwalking, fishing, or relaxing at the beach!
Our teachers
