Our faculty educators are driven by a shared mission to equip our students with tools and insights to help make physical and mental wellbeing attainable for every body, every day. Together, we offer a rewarding and highly regarded education, opening up a world of opportunities for our graduates.
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Katrina Edwards
Director of Training - Melbourne
Katrina Edwards
Director of Training - Melbourne
Next teacherIn addition to her extensive qualifications in the Pilates Method, Katrina has enjoyed a long and successful career as a classical ballet dancer.
Katrina was first introduced to Pilates over 30 years ago, as rehabilitation following a knee injury. Instantly recognising the benefits, Katrina continued to practice Pilates throughout her dancing career before founding her first Pilates studio, Aligned for Life in Moonee Ponds in 2000.
Today , Katrina specialises in teaching and caring for elite athletes as part of her role as Conditioning Specialist for the Australian Ballet School and sports science consultant for Melbourne city Football Club”
Katrina shares her passion for the pilates method in mentoring and coaching all students enrolled with National Pilates Training.
Qualifications
- Advanced Diploma of the Pilates Method (91490NSW)
- Certificate IV in Training & Assessment (TAE40110)
- Diploma in Dance (Australian Ballet School)
You can email Katrina and book a private class
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Celine Tricarico
Student Learning Services & Digital Marketing Manager
Celine Tricarico
Student Learning Services & Digital Marketing Manager
Next teacherCeline’s journey with National Pilates Training began when she embarked on her quest for a top-tier Pilates education provider. Starting with the Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction (10838NAT) with NPT marked a turning point, igniting a deep drive and passion to stay closely connected with NPT.
Celine, is now an integral part of the organization combining skills across key areas of the business working closely with Katrina Edwards, Director of Training, ensuring our day to day operations are meeting expectations whilst continuing to pursue her passion teaching and instructing Pilates at Aligned for Life Pilates.
Celine, takes care of student learning, providing invaluable support to new students as they progress through their studies and is also the creative force steering our social media presence, putting a friendly and relatable face to the National Pilates Training name and building continued trust in the brand.
Qualifications & Experience
- Digital Marketing Institute- Socials and EDM Marketing (Current)
- Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction (10838NAT)
- Advanced Diploma in Dance (Elite Performance) (CUA60120)
- Administration & RTO Management Experience
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Daniela Amore
Course Administrator- Application and Enrolment
Daniela Amore
Course Administrator- Application and Enrolment
Next teacherDaniela, has a background in massage therapy and is passionate about all things to do with health of the body. Daniela, came to Pilates later in life due to a need to address ongoing lower back pain, which came about during her second pregnancy. For the first time ever she experienced debilitating back pain. The advice given by the remedial therapist at the time, was to improve core strength and add in strength/gym training. Then,a friend recommended Pilates. Daniela, started attending pilates classes once a week. Six months later, there was no back pain. Daniela, was hooked and started attending pilates classes twice a week and enrolled in a pilates teacher training course and landed at National Pilates Training to upgrade to the Diploma qualification.
Daniela runs her own home based pilates studio and has also just recently joined the NPT Administration Team.
Daniela, works closely with Katrina Edwards and Celine ensuring our ‘behind the scenes’ is running efficiently and effectively and is excited to be a part of the Pilates Industry, working in the background, behind the scenes, supporting and inspiring National pilates Training and our future.
Daniela is excited to be a part of the growth of National Pilates Training alongside the awesome team that is National Pilates Training.
Qualifications:
- Peak Pilates Certificate II
- Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction (10838NAT)
- Office Administration: 25+ years experience
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Kellie Brealery
RTO Officer/Compliance
Kellie Brealery
RTO Officer/Compliance
Kellie, first began practising Pilates over 20 years ago.
Kellie’s belief in the effectiveness of the Pilates method and a desire to inspire others to experience its genuine benefits, led Kellie to embark on a career change after 2 decades practising as a Chartered Accountant. Kellie’s pilates journey with National Pilates Training began when she completed the Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction in February 2013.
Kellie has since completed the Advanced Diploma of the Pilates Method with NPT in 2023 and has been teaching at Aligned for Life Pilates in Moonee Ponds since 2013.
Kellie has been an integral part of the NPT team since 2016, focusing largely on setting up and maintaining the student management system (LMS) and overseeing RTO compliance.
Kellie works closely with Katrina Edwards, Director of Training in ensuring National Pilates Training (RTO21719) meets compliance expectations, and maintains the reputation in the industry of being the leader in Pilates education providing quality education and sustainable career pathways.
Qualifications:
- Advanced Diploma of the Pilates Method (10839NAT)
- Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction (91491NSW)
- Chartered Accountant, Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia
- Bachelor of Business in Accounting (Distinction), RMIT
Meet our faculty educators
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Kath Banks
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Melbourne
Kath Banks
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Melbourne
Next teacherWhen she is not presenting short courses for National Pilates Training, Kath Banks is busy teaching classes at her Moonee Ponds Aligned for Life Pilates studio.
Kath’s area of expertise is rehabilitation, as she has a Master of Clinical Exercise Science & Rehabilitation, is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist with ESSA and works as a Rehabilitation Coordinator at Maribyrnong Sports Academy.
Kath’s thirst for knowledge and passion for health will provide you with the support needed to begin your journey or take your career to the next level.
Qualifications
- Advanced Diploma of the Pilates Method (91490NSW)
- Certificate IV in Training & Assessment (TAE40110)
- Masters of Clinical Exercise Science & Rehabilitation
- Bachelor of Applied Science Human Movement
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Chantel Viksten
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Melbourne
Chantel Viksten
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Melbourne
Next teacherChantel started practising Pilates while studying at The Australian Ballet School. The method continued to be a central part of her everyday routine throughout her 15-year career as a ballerina, strengthening her body for different roles and dance styles and helping with injury prevention and rehabilitation.
Always knowing she wanted to be a Pilates teacher after retiring from ballet, Chantel completed her teacher training in the UK before joining Aligned For Life’s CBD and Moonee Ponds studios in 2015.
Today Chantel is an integral part of the team and has helped hundreds of students carve out their professional path in the industry. She teaches the Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction (10537NAT) course, which she also assesses.
Qualifications
- Diploma of professional Pilates Instruction (10537NAT)
- Advanced Diploma of the pilates method (10839NAT)
- Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40110)
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Mel Plozza
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Melbourne
Mel Plozza
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Melbourne
Next teacherMel first began practicing Pilates in 2012, after experiencing a back injury that led to chronic back pain that left her unable to participate in her usual leisure and fitness activities. She soon began to experience the amazing benefits the practice had on her mind and body and wanted to learn more about the method. In 2013 she began instructor training at the Pilates Fitness Institute of WA (PFI). While still studying for her Diploma, Mel decided to take the leap and leave her career in the chemical industry to be a full time Pilates instructor and practitioner.
Mel completed her Advanced Diploma of the Pilates Method at National Pilates Training in 2018 and has since been working with National Pilates Training as a faculty educator for the Introduction to Pilates and the Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction (10537NAT) courses, as well as an assessor for the Diploma. Mel is also a Pilates Practitioner for Aligned for Life Pilates.
Qualifications
- Diploma of professional Pilates Instruction (10537NAT)
- Advanced Diploma of the pilates method (10838NAT)
- Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40116)
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Melissa Jones
Faculty Member, Assessor - Melbourne
Melissa Jones
Faculty Member, Assessor - Melbourne
Next teacherMelissa has enjoyed an extensive career as a professional dancer and teacher, both nationally and internationally. Pilates has been central to her success, supporting her through rehabilitation from a range of injuries, including stress fractures, bulging discs and rotator cuff injuries.
Alongside dancing, Melissa has taught Pilates at studios in Tasmania and Victoria, as well as within dance institutions. Currently teaching at the National Theatre Ballet School, Melissa’s clients include professional dancers, circus artists, athletes, Australian Ballet School and VCA students.
An active member of Pilates Alliance Australasia, Melissa regularly attends movement research workshops around Australia and the world. Melissa teaches and assesses the Certificate in Pilates Reformer Instruction course and is also one of the assessors of the Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction (10537NAT).
Qualifications
- Diploma of professional pilates Instruction (10537NAT)
- Certificate IV in training and assessment (TAE40116)
- Bachelor of Dance (HONS)
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Benjamin Rashleigh
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Melbourne
Benjamin Rashleigh
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Melbourne
Next teacherFor the better part of a decade Benjamin dedicated himself to his career as a fine-dining chef, both here in Australia and in Europe. Accumulating years of 60-plus hour weeks being hunched over a bench, he developed chronic lower back pain.
Benjamin’s physiotherapist recommended he take up Pilates to combat the damage that had been done and he quickly developed a passion for the discipline, which in turn prompted him to enrol at National Pilates Training and obtain his Diploma in 2012.
Benjamin’s curiosity about the method is forever deepening and he has firm plans to further himself as an instructor and quench his thirst for knowledge through continued professional development. He is currently completing his Advanced Diploma of the Pilates Method (10538NAT) and teaches the Introduction to Anatomy course.
Qualifications
- Diploma of professional Pilates Instruction (10537NAT)
- Advanced Diploma of the pilates method (10838NAT)
- Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40116)
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Sarah-Yvonne Prytula
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Brisbane
Sarah-Yvonne Prytula
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Brisbane
Next teacherSarah competed with the Australian senior figure skating team for several years. She then turned professional and experienced over 10yrs on the road performing in ice shows as a principal skater and aerialist. Through that time Sarah realised the added benefits of Pilates within her own fitness routine; where it gave her better body awareness, made her stronger and ultimately assisted in preventing injuries.
The joy of movement has always been a big part of Sarah’s life, and wanting to share this with others, Sarah retired from tour life and became busy establishing her knowledge and continued education in Pilates. Sarah completed her Diploma in 2018 and more recently her Advance Diploma in the Pilates Method in 2022.
After spending the last 5yrs as an instructor at Pilates Canberra, Sarah recently move up to tropical north Queensland calling Townsville home. Sarah will be joining the faculty at NPT as an educator for QLD. She is excited by the opportunity to help others pursue their Pilates knowledge and careers.
Qualifications
- Advanced Diploma of the pilates method (10839NAT)
- Certificate IV in training and assessment (TAE40116)
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Denise Woodward
Faculty Educator, Assessor – Canberra
Denise Woodward
Faculty Educator, Assessor – Canberra
Next teacherDuring Denise’s career working in the Health sector, she was introduced to Pilates by a friend, the timing was perfect as although Denise was physically active hiking up mountains she realised her body needed more. After only a short time practising Pilates Denise was convinced about the method and wanted to know more so she undertook the Diploma in Professional Pilates Instruction through PilatesITC.
Denise now works exclusively in the Pilates industry, teaching Pilates at the Pilates Canberra studio, working with a large variety of clients. In addition to her teaching, Denise has more recently worked as an Educator in delivering government accredited Pilates teacher training qualifications.
Denise feels incredibility fortunate to work in the Pilates industry, helping clients restore strength and mobility in their bodies using the Pilates Method and is incredibly excited to be working with National Pilates Training as faculty educator and assessor for National Pilates Training – Canberra.
Qualifications
- Diploma of professional pilates Instruction (10537NAT)
- Certificate IV in training and assessment (TAE40116)
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Elysha Manik
Faculty Educator, Assessor – Sydney
Elysha Manik
Faculty Educator, Assessor – Sydney
Next teacherElysha obtained her Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction from Pilates International Training Centre in 2014 and has worked as an instructor ever since. Alongside this, Elysha has had an extensive career as a professional dancer and performer. She has worked professionally in the performing arts industry both in Australia and overseas for over 14yrs. Some of Elysha’s theatre credits include the Australian Touring productions of West Side Story, Saturday Night Fever, The Bodyguard, Dirty Dancing the Musical and most recently at the Sydney Opera House in DTC’s production of “A Chorus Line”.
Pilates was an integral part of Elysha’s physical education throughout her 30+ years as an elite level dancer. She was introduced to Pilates in her early teens to compliment her full-time Ballet training. Her experience with Pilates during her formative years greatly helped her understanding of the benefits of the Pilates Method, not just for athletes, but for everybody. Pilates has given Elysha longevity in her dance career and she has gained a great passion for Pilates instruction in the process. Elysha is also a highly sought-after dance teacher and she mentors many elite pre-professional performers. She teaches both Pilates and Dance at a number prestigious full-time dance institutions all over
Sydney. Elysha is extremely excited to join the NPT team in 2023.
Qualifications
- Diploma of professional pilates Instruction (91491NSW)
- Certificate IV in training and assessment (TAE40116)
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Dianne Hawkins
Faculty Assessor
Dianne Hawkins
Faculty Assessor
Next teacherI came to Pilates teaching from a fitness instructing background, looking for a movement method that was complementary to other forms of exercise and that had potential for long term practice. Indeed, practising Pilates likely saved me from serious injury from prolonged heavy duty fitness instruction.
I started my Pilates studies in 2004 with Matwork, and in 2011 extended into studio equipment with the Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction and now have completed the Advanced Diploma of the Pilates Method – the highest Pilates specific government recognised qualification in the world.
I also hold Buff Bones certificate, which is a bone health specialisation. Teaching the Pilates method, whether on a mat or in the studio, gives me the privilege of witnessing the benefits for clients, which is extremely rewarding.
Qualifications
- Advanced Diploma of the Pilates Method (10839NAT)
- Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40116 )
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Sally Derbyshire
Faculty Educator, Assessor – Sydney
Sally Derbyshire
Faculty Educator, Assessor – Sydney
Next teacherSally grew up in Sydney, training as an young elite gymnast and dancer. Classical ballet soon became her first passion, where she embarked on a career with the English National Ballet Company and danced professionally around the UK, Asia and Australia.
Introduced to Pilates at the Australian Ballet School, Sally found her second passion. Through injury, she discovered the rehabilitative benefits of Pilates in the Studio environment and Pilates became an integral part of her injury prevention and recovery regime throughout her dancing career.
Her interest in the science behind human movement made for a natural progression into her study of the Pilates Method and beyond.
Sally has completed her Advanced Diploma in The Pilates Method (10839NAT) and has been teaching for the past 18 years in both the UK and Australia.
Sally’s journey as a professional Pilates practitioner has included being a part of faculty for National Pilates Training (2004/05) and Balance Control Pilates (UK) 2010-2013.
These days Sally is busy teaching in her studio The pilates village in Sydney’s Hunters Hill as well as teaching conditioning for dance at Tanya Pearson Academy as part of the elite classical ballet training program.
Sally is excited to be able to re join the National Pilates Training faculty team in Sydney for 2023 to share her knowledge and experience with future movement teachers.
Qualifications
- Advanced Diploma of the pilates method (10538NAT)
- Certificate IV in training and assessment (TAE40116)
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Amanda Betlehem
Assessor – Melbourne
Amanda Betlehem
Assessor – Melbourne
Next teacherAmanda first discovered Pilates as a dance student looking to manage injury and enhance performance and then went on to train to a professional level in contemporary dance.
Amanda has an extensive background in performing and teaching dance spanning several years.
Amanda initially started with the Professional Pilates Matwork Instruction Pathway at National Pilates Training to supplement her skills as a dance teacher, to be able to provide conditioning specific to her students’ needs. Very shortly after commencing she was inspired by the National Pilates Training faculty team to make mat and studio Pilates the next chapter of her career.
Amanda now teaches in the fully equipped pilates studio at Aligned for life pilates – Carlton and Moonee Pond.
Amanda is now also a Faculty Educator and Assessor for National Pilates Training (RTO 21719), and looks forward to sharing her knowledge and skills with aspiring Pilates instructors.
Qualifications
- Diploma of professional Pilates Instruction (10838NAT)
- Certificate IV in training and assessment (TAE40116)
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Cecily Hemphill
Assessor – Melbourne
Cecily Hemphill
Assessor – Melbourne
Next teacherWhen Cecily isn’t teaching Pilates, she is busy managing staff and running a successful Pilates & Yoga studio in Greensborough; Alive Yoga & Pilates.
Cecily was introduced to Pilates through her 20+ years in dance training and whilst working within the performance industry, sought a second career sticking within the realm of movement. After completing her Certificate in Reformer & Matwork in 2018, Cecily went on to complete the Diploma of professional Pilates Instruction with National Pilates Training in the height of Covid in 2020. Graduating from the Diploma in 2021, Cecily was then approached to become the second half of the team behind Alive Yoga & Pilates from the start of 2022.
Cecily still continues to teach group Matwork and Reformer classes as well as small group 3:1 sessions, working within the fully equipped pilates studio and continues to manage the team at Alive.
Cecily’s other passion that allows her to use her creativity is in marketing her studio and all that it has to offer.
Cecily is extremely excited to share her passion for Pilates and step into a new area of educating upcoming instructors with National Pilates Training as a faculty educator in Melbourne.
Qualifications
- Diploma of professional pilates Instruction (10537NAT)
- Certificate IV in training and assessment (TAE40116)
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Zoe Whymark
Faculty Educator, Assessor – Canberra
Zoe Whymark
Faculty Educator, Assessor – Canberra
Next teacherZoe completed the mat work certification in 2007, commenced the reformer segment of Diploma in 2012, and articulating to the complete Diploma of professional Pilates Instruction in 2015.
Zoe also holds the Buff bones certification for bone health.
Zoe has taught at Pilates Canberra, at her studio on the south coast NSW and for various NGOs to provide specialty programs for cultural engagement as part of comprehensive health project work.
With 29 years experience in the sports industry, and 23 years working with populations impacted by trauma, Zoe has a unique perspective on mind-body work in Pilates.
Zoe is a faculty educator and assessor for National Pilates Training – Canberra.
Qualifications
- Diploma of professional pilates Instruction (91491NSW)
- Certificate IV in training and assessment (TAE40122)
- BA -Asian studies
- CIV gym instructor
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Renae Blackmore
Faculty Educator, Assessor – NSW
Renae Blackmore
Faculty Educator, Assessor – NSW
Next teacherRenae owns and runs her own pilates studio, Renae Blackmore Pilates Studio, -Central Coast NSW.
Renae has been teaching the Pilates Method since 1996.Background- Renae was a professional dancer and was drawn into the Pilates world as an injury prevention and strengthening tool. Her love of Pilates inspired her to study the Method.
Over the years Renae has completed several pilates courses and has also completed the Advanced Diploma of the pilates method (10529NSW). Renae is a hands- on Practitioner and is passionate about helping others understand how to execute the pilates repertoire together with increasing everyone’s knowledge of how to implement the practis of the Pilates method across daily life and daily activities.
Renae is grateful to have Pilates in her life, for both physical and mental reasons. The practice of the pilates method has helped her maintain an injury free dance career and helped her through the birth of her two girls. Now getting close to her 50’s Renae feels more energised, balanced, stronger and invigorated than ever because of regular pilates practice.
Renae is excited to be joining the NPT team in NSW for 2023.
Qualifications
- Advanced Diploma of the Pilates Method (91490NSW)
- Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40116)
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Sharlene Morgante
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Melbourne
Sharlene Morgante
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Melbourne
Next teacherSharlene, comes from a dance background, primarily classical ballet and has been teaching dance and movement for over 35 years.
Sharlene, discovered the Pilates Method when looking for a way to rehabilitate and manage a long term back injury and found was far more than just rehab but instead a whole new career.
In 2010, Sharlene successfully completed the Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction (10537NAT) and then in 2016 the Advanced Diploma of the Pilates Method (10538NAT) both with National Pilates Training and under the guidance of Katrina Edwards and Kath Banks.
Sharlene, opened her own fully equipped pilates studio in Melbourne in 2012, Studio Nine Pilates, after returning from 2 years living in Macau, China, where she worked with artists from The House of Dancing Water and Cirque Du Soleil specialising in rehabilitation and Pilates/Dance conditioning.
As well as running her own studio, Sharlene is a dance conditioning and classical ballet coach and works with dancers here in Australia and internationally.
Sharlene, has been an affiliate/work placement site for National Pilates Training for 9 years, mentoring students through their Pilates journey.
In 2020, Sharlene joined the team at National Pilates Training as an educator and assessor.
Sharlene, is also a certified Gyrokinesis® level 1 and Gryotonic® levels 1 & 2 trainer and holds a current Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.
Qualifications
- Diploma of professional pilates Instruction (91480NSW)
- Advanced Diploma of the pilates method (91490NSW)
- Certificate IV in training and assessment (TAE 40116)
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Stephanie Sibel
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Melbourne
Stephanie Sibel
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Melbourne
Next teacherAlongside running long-established business, Armature in East Brunswick, VIC, Stephanie has been educating and training Pilates instructors to be the best they can be for over 12 years.
She loves both Pilates and Strength Training and blends these two modalities at Armature, operating a full Strength Training gym alongside group reformer, clinical Pilates and an extensive matwork studio.
Stephanie has professionally presented and developed courses across both the Pilates and Fitness spaces.
Stephanie, believes the two are so intrinsically linked and is passionate about bringing the amazing benefits of Pilates to wider demographics.
Stephanie completed the Diploma of professional Pilates Instruction NPT certification as well as she as numerous Pilates certifications and appreciates Pilates in all its many forms.
In another life, Stephanie was the dance reviewer for the Herald Sun for 20 years, blending her university degrees of dance and English.
She hails from Los Angeles, but after so many decades, definitely calls Melbourne her home.
Stephanie is excited to join the National Pilates Training faculty team.
Qualifications
- Diploma of professional pilates Instruction (91491NSW)
- Certificate IV in training and assessment (TAE40116)
- BA Dance
- BA Honours English
- MA english
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Tristan Kirk
Faculty Educator, Assessor - NSW
Tristan Kirk
Faculty Educator, Assessor - NSW
Next teacherWith a science, sport, and dance background, Tristan first discovered the Pilates Method as
form of training to complement his sporting and fitness endeavours. Piquing his interest in
the discipline and the conditioning benefits that Pilates has on the body, Tristan then
completed the Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction (PITC) in 2015 and has worked at
numerous studios where he has had an active role in mentoring students and instructors.
Tristan has also spent considerable time working alongside and collaborating with physios,
using Pilates to further patients’ treatment, and utilising Pilates as a conditioning tool for
dancers and elite performers.
Tristan now owns his own Pilates studio – Apex pilates in Morisset, NSW.
He has a passion for continuing to grow and learn and regularly participates in continuing
education.
Tristan has a thirst for knowledge and enjoys the opportunity to share his knowledge with
students and peers.
Tristan is excited about the opportunity to join National pilates Training as a faculty educator
and to be involved in the training of the government accredited pilates teaching training
qualifications with National Pilates Training in Morisset.Qualifications
- Certificate IV in training and assessment (TAE40116)
- Diploma of professional Pilates Instruction (91491NSW)
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Frances Chippeck
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Sydney
Frances Chippeck
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Sydney
Next teacherFrances spent most of her youth in the UK, she completed her business degree and worked in the corporate world for 15 years. A history of playing various sports she continued that journey through being a gym enthusiast and a runner. Post childbirth it became clear to her that her body needed another mode of movement to help her bounce back and deal with the functional load that parenting twins can bring.
Attending regular mat work classes in the UK was an integral part of rebuilding herself but it was only after relocating to Sydney nearly 20 years ago that she discovered studio Pilates. Loving the change and strength in her own body, appreciating the overall method of movement Frances decided to undertake the Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction through PITC and qualified in 2013.
Continuing her education through regular PAA workshops and other further education on offer, Frances holds the Buff Bones Certification and also completed the Adv Teachers Classical programme through APEI, further understanding the history of Pilates and the method as it was designed by Joseph Pilates.
You can currently find Frances at The Pilates Village in Hunters Hill, a studio where she has worked for almost 10 years. She has also built her own home studio at Avoca Beach on the Central Coast. Frances is passionate about sharing the method of Pilates to her clients, helping them to rebuild, strengthen and progress.
Frances is delighted to join the National Pilates Team faculty team in Sydney for 2023.
Qualifications
- Diploma of professional pilates Instruction (91491NSW)
- Certificate IV in training and assessment (TAE40116)
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Julia Smith
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Brisbane
Julia Smith
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Brisbane
Next teacherJulia’s passion for movement began at age three with her first dance class. This passion grew and developed into what became a successful national and international professional dancing career that spanned over 15 years.
The transition from dancer to Pilates instructor was an intuitive journey that supported both her love of movement and her desire to rehabilitate the imbalances and injuries she sustained over the years, dancing.
In 2012 Julia opened her own Pilates and Barre studio in Alexandria, Sydney which she ran successfully for four years, before she sold it to move to Brisbane with her family.
She continues to nurture her love of movement, Pilates, learning, healing and health recently studying a Masters of Osteopathic Medicine from Southern Cross University, due for completion in 2024.
Julia is excited to be joining the National Pilates Training faculty team.
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Clinical Science (osteopathic studies) BClinSci(OstSt)
- Master of Osteopathic Medicine MOstMed – currently studying
- Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction (10537NAT)
- Diploma of Remedial Massage Therapy (HLT50307)
- Certificate IV Training and Assessment (TAE40110)
- Stott Pilates Instructor certified
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Timi Delahuntly
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Hervey Bay
Timi Delahuntly
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Hervey Bay
Next teacherAt the tender age of 3 Timi was waterskiing and by the age of 16, she represented Australia in the sport of Water Ski Racing. Like many instructors, Timi’s Pilates journey evolved through both love of movement and a necessity to undo the years of training harder, rather than smarter.
While at University she was coaxed into a Pilates class, begrudgingly she went not realising it was the moment that would change the rest of her life.
Her love of Pilates grew to see her leave teaching in 2005 and begin her own business. As her family grew, so did her business as did her thirst for knowledge. It was at this point, while completing her Diploma of Professional Instruction that she met Katrina and the Aligned for Life family. Another moment in time that was to invigorate, motivate and drive her deeper into the method and all its glorious benefits.
In 2018 Timi and her family took a leap of faith and moved from Mildura Victoria to Hervey Bay QLD. She has built her business and is deeply grateful to her clients for giving her the opportunity to share both knowledge and life with them.
She loves the fact that everyday she gets to combine her passion for health and exercise with educating, motivating and inspiring people to grow their movement experiences both in the studio as well as everyday life.
Timi is looking forward to joining National Pilates Training as a faculty educator in 2023.
Qualifications
- 2023 – Certificate IV Training & Assessment (TAE40116)
- 2021- Advanced Diploma of the Pilates Method (10538NAT)
- 2015 – Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction (91491NSW)
- 1999- Bachelor of Education (Physical Education) – University of Ballarat.
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Sonia Crisafulli
Faculty Educator, Assessor - NSW
Sonia Crisafulli
Faculty Educator, Assessor - NSW
Next teacherSonia owns and runs her own Pilates Home studio on the South Coast of NSW. Her passion for Pilates comes from a long love of movement through dance. Whilst studying at the Victorian College of the Arts Melbourne, her passion deepened and practiced Pilates and Yoga religiously as part of her dance training.
Sonia is a principal level pilates practitioner and trainer and has delivered pilates teacher training for Body Control Pilates in the UK and government accredited training with Pilates International throughout Australia for almost 20 years.
Sonia has also presented specialist pilates training programs and workshops for Pilates International Studios, Sydney and is currently a REACH movement Health presenter for continuing education programs in particular the Women’s Health programs.
Sonia holds the Advanced Diploma in The Pilates Method qualification, Bachelor of Dance, Pre and Post Natal Specialist Certification, USA and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment – TAE.
Sonia specialises in Women’s Health as well as musculoskeletal rehabilitation and postural retraining.
Sonia is a highly sought after teacher/educator/ trainer.
Sonia enjoys moving her body daily, the outdoors and spending time with her two children and husband.
Sonia is excited to be joining the National Pilates Training team as an Advanced Diploma senior faculty educator.
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Ashleigh Gossow
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Brisbane
Ashleigh Gossow
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Brisbane
Next teacherAsh is a former professional dancer, and has spent a decade travelling the globe working in dance and musical theatre. Touring with Kanye West, working internationally as a Singer/Dancer and performing around Australia with Tina Arena in EVITA the Musical.
Ash discovered Pilates as a form of rehabilitation after injury, and loved the way it connected the mind and body and how that connection makes you feel. Ash completed her Pilates Matwork, Reformer and Barre and opened a pilates studio- ‘Boutique Pilates Method’ in 2020 wanting to combine her background in dance and love of movement. Ash completed her Diploma of professional Pilates Instruction (10838NAT)with National Pilates Training (21719) in 2023. Ash is passionate about the human body and supporting her clients through education. Ash draws on her dance background to help clients understand posture and alignment within the pilates context applying the fundamentals of movement and the principles of Joseph Pilates.
Ash is excited to be joining as a Faculty Educator and Assessor for National Pilates Training- Brisbane.
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Lora Rainey
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Online
Lora Rainey
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Online
Next teacherLora, is a Pilates Specialist having completed the Advanced Diploma of the Pilates method qualification.
Associated experience includes 15 years of experience in the fitness industry, and has completed a Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Science.
Lora, has worked as a Pilates Educator and presenter since 2018 and specializes in strength and conditioning, mobility, rehabilitation through active movement practice.
Lora, is very excited to be joining the National Pilates Training faculty to be able to continue to share her passion for the pilates method and helping students develop and reach their full potential.
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Emma Betson
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Brisbane
Emma Betson
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Brisbane
Next teacherEmma comes from a background in Classical Ballet, Psychology and Social Work. She left her full time Social Worker role in 2017 to pursue her passion for Pilates completing her Diploma in Professional Pilates Instruction.
Emma owns a pilates studio business – Inspired Pilates in Brisbane and
has a serious passion for helping others reach their goals, a passion for teaching pilates and for continuing to learn.
Inspired Pilates is also an affiliate with National Pilates Training supporting students in the area of work placement hours during their study and training.
Emma is currently completing her Advanced Diploma of the pilates method qualification to increase her knowledge and skills in the pilates method and better equip herself with increased knowledge related to special conditions and high risk rehab.
Emma is excited to be joining the National Pilates Training faculty for her own progression as a person and as a teacher.
You can find Emma working with our NPT students at our training location in Brisbane – Boutique Pilates Method.
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Monika Kenzez
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Sydney
Monika Kenzez
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Sydney
Next teacherMonika, originally from Hungary, began her journey as a Pilates instructor in 2006 in her homeland. With a background in Dermal Therapy and a passion for holistic health, she furthered her education by studying Nutrition and Remedial Therapies. It was during her Nutrition studies that Monika was introduced to the transformative powers of yoga and Pilates.
In 2013, Monika completed her Diploma training in Hungary, solidifying her commitment to helping others improve their well-being through movement.
Seeking to deepen her understanding of Pilates therapy, Monika pursued advanced training with Polestar Australia, and later she also obtained her Australian Diploma qualification with National Pilates Training.
Over the years, she has gradually devoted herself exclusively to Pilates, sharing her expertise with clients on the North Shore of sunny Sydney.
Forever eager for more, she is currently studying Exercise Science. With her diverse background and unwavering dedication to holistic health, Monika is thrilled to continue her journey with National Pilates Training as a Faculty Member.
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Sara Czarnota
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Sydney
Sara Czarnota
Faculty Educator, Assessor - Sydney
Sara has spent the last 10 years working in the Pilates and Fitness industry, training clients and teaching instructors, locally and internationally. For 7 years of this time she was the owner / operator of Xtend Barre Drummoyne and was a Teacher Trainer for Xtend Barre.
Sara is now the owner / operator of her own Pilates studio ‘The Movement Core’ in Drummoyne, Sydney, New South Wales, since October 2022.
Sara created this space to nurture, educate and support people to move in ways she genuinely believes in.
Sara believes in the power of movement in transforming lives.
Dance, namely ballet, was an integral part of Sara’s life from a young age. Her transition to Pilates, Barre and fitness in her adult life was a natural progression and felt to her like a ‘coming home’.
Sara feels that the partnership with National Pilates Training is an exciting and genuine fit with her overall vision and where she wants her business to grow.
Sara has recently become a Faculty Educator and Assessor for National Pilates Training and is looking forward to the continued learning and growth personally and professionally with NPT and her mentors.Qualifications:
– PilatesITC (40941) Certificate in Pilates Matwork Instruction
– Tensegrity Training (60182) Pilates Group Reformer Instructor
– Certificate IV in Training & Assessment (TAE40110) – In progress
-Pre and postnatal care and diastasis recti recovery – the Centre for Women’s Fitness
Our Faculty
At National Pilates Training we pride ourselves on our faculty members’ comprehensive knowledge in the pilates method, exercise science, injury rehabilitation and sport-specific conditioning. With long careers in the pilates industry and close ties to a network of pilates studios around Australia and the world, we prepare our students for long and successful careers in the Pilates industry. Whether you are ready to become a pilates teacher yourself or just starting your Pilates journey, we are here to help you realise your goals.