Our Story

Chris Hogan

About Us

Meet Chris

Chris Hogan, founder of Future Footsteps, has dedicated her career to enhancing student learning experiences and supporting families. With over 35 years of experience in education, Chris has worked closely with families, mentored students, and led numerous initiatives to support diverse learning needs. Her background enables her to offer families a balanced, compassionate approach to school selection, providing insights that align with each family’s unique needs and aspirations.

Why Choose Chris Hogan and Future Footsteps

With decades of experience, Chris Hogan and Future Footsteps bring:

Expertise in Special Education and Gifted Learning

Throughout her career in teaching and leadership in Special Education, Chris has worked extensively with students of all learning abilities.

She has ensured that teaching practices align with the latest evidence-based approaches, creating environments where diverse learners can succeed.

Her expertise with neurodiverse learners enables her to identify schools that closely match your child’s specific needs and potential.

Wide-reaching Network within Victorian Schools

Over the years, Chris has built strong connections within the school sectors across Victoria.

Her extensive network includes a high number of educators and administrators, allowing her to access valuable, behind-the-scenes insights that go beyond what’s presented in public-facing materials. By focusing exclusively on Victorian schools, Chris stays current with each institution’s developments, giving you a real-time understanding of what these schools offer today.

In-depth Knowledge of Schools

Chris’s extensive background in education enables her to look beyond school brochures and websites, gaining a true understanding of each institution.

Her experience leading Special Education Departments also provides her with the knowledge and expertise to advise families of students with specific learning needs.

Extensive Experience Advising Families

Chris understands that school choice is a deeply personal decision. With a compassionate, family-centered approach, she works closely with you to understand your priorities and address any concerns.

Chris is dedicated to ensuring that her recommendations align perfectly with your family’s values and aspirations.

Commitment to Staying Informed

Chris’s commitment to staying informed means that she regularly visits schools, engages with educators, and expands her network, whilst monitoring shifts in educational offerings across Victoria.

This immersion allows Future Footsteps to provide the latest and most accurate guidance for your family’s decisions.

100% Independent, Confidential & Unbiased Guidance

Future Footsteps is committed to transparency and independence. Chris and her team work solely for you—not for the schools—ensuring that every recommendation is tailored to your
family’s best interests.

Saving You Time and Effort

Navigating the school selection process alone can be daunting. Future Footsteps streamlines the journey, drawing on expertise and deep insights to save you valuable time while ensuring every possible option is explored.

Professional Endorsements

Chris has held a variety of roles throughout her career and has built strong relationships across both the education and allied health sectors. Over many years, she has supported numerous families in making informed decisions, particularly when situations have been complex. I have great confidence in Chris’ abilities and highly recommend her services. She has been an outstanding colleague, and I have thoroughly enjoyed working with her.

Rachel Huntington

Teacher

I’ve had the privilege of working with Chris for many years and have always valued her insights and advice. She’s respectful, discreet, and consistently earns the trust of families through her thoughtful and honest approach. She takes the time to understand each student’s emotional and academic needs, and offers personalised, practical guidance.

Kirsten James

Teacher

Over the decades I’ve known Chris, I’ve seen her guide families through complex educational decisions with care and sensitivity. She is knowledgeable, warm, and deeply attuned to the needs of diverse learners.

Anne Niere

Teacher

Chris and I have worked together in two different schools over the last 30 years. She has a deep understanding of The Science of Learning, focusing on instructional practices that provide the best opportunity for successful learning outcomes. She is highly skilled at embedding evidence-based explicit instructional programs to drive student progress. This experience, combined with her extensive professional network, gives her the skills and resources to effectively assist families in selecting a school for their child.

Chari Clarke

Teacher

In my role as Deputy Head of Junior School, I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with Chris for many years. She is a trusted professional who brings integrity and practical purpose to the educational arena. Without exception, she is a dynamic and much valued educator who understands student potential and the various pathways to success. I have no hesitation in recommending Chris to families who are navigating the range of educational choices available in Melbourne.

Linda Lewis

Former Deputy Head of Junior School

Chris’s experience in teaching, leadership, and special education gives her a strong understanding of how schools differ in culture and approach. I’ve worked with her for many years and have seen how well she supports families making important educational decisions.

Lisa Collins

Teacher

Chris has decades of experience in classroom teaching and special education, including many years in leadership roles. I’ve known her professionally for over 30 years — she is honest, trustworthy, and compassionate. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her to any family seeking support with school choices.

Merrilyn Barklamb

Teacher