Future Learners

What happens when you swap the classroom for the open road? In this episode of the Future Learners podcast, we meet Kirianna from The Slow Road family, who shares how they balance education with adventure while living in a vintage 1962 Volkswagen Combi. Currently travelling in Japan with her husband Lockie and their three children, Kirianna offers a glimpse into the world of travel schooling. Kirianna discusses their philosophy of “slow learning,” practical strategies for offline education, and how they integrate real-world experiences into their Euka curriculum. Her insights provide inspiration for families considering travel schooling or simply wanting to bring more flexibility and real-world connection into their homeschooling journey. Key Points: Travel Schooling Definition: Family of five travels in 1962 VW Combi “Izzy” Currently based in Japan; children aged 9, 6, and 3 Philosophy of Slow Learning: Taking things at life’s pace; learning through play and exploration Flexible scheduling that works with each child’s natural rhythms Practical Strategies: Print worksheets and box resources by term for offline learning Integrate real-world experiences (markets, monuments, trains) into curriculum Euka Support: Downloadable and printable resources suit travel lifestyle Responsive support team; YouTube tutorials for getting organised Introduction to Travel Schooling The world really can be your classroom. For Kirianna and her family of five, this isn’t just a motto—it’s their daily reality. Living in a vintage 1962 Volkswagen split-screen Combi named Izzy, they’ve discovered that learning doesn’t need four walls. It just needs curiosity, flexibility, and the right support. Currently in Japan with her husband Lockie and their three children—Riley (9), Alba (6), and Elsie (3)—Kirianna shared how they balance exploration with education, and why travel schooling has become their family’s way of life. The Slow Road Family and Their Journey Kirianna and Lockie’s journey into travel schooling wasn’t always the plan. Both coming from aviation backgrounds, they’d always had the travel bug. They started travelling just before COVID, initially wanting to see more of Australia. What began as an adventure evolved into something more permanent when they realised their son Riley needed an education approach that suited his active, outdoorsy nature. “We just tried to search for ways where we could educate him to be an outdoorsy boy, still get out and explore the world, but also have a stable homeschooling background,” Kirianna explained. Their research led them to Euka. The COVID pandemic, while challenging for many, actually helped normalise their lifestyle choice. “Everyone could see that kids could still be outdoors and learn, or still travel,” Kirianna reflected. This shift in perspective gave them confidence to commit to travel schooling as a long-term approach. “Learning is just a part of life. We are all natural learners and enthusiastic learners.”— Kirianna, The Slow Road Philosophy of Slow Learning The family’s approach centres on what Kirianna calls “slow learning”—a philosophy that extends beyond education into their entire lifestyle. Living in a vintage Combi naturally takes you back a few years, she notes. The family tries to live like they’re back in the 1960s: getting muddy, learning through play, and connecting with different cultures. “I think the slow aspect comes from just taking things as life can,” Kirianna shared. “From a little boy, we figured that he just needed to take his time with his learning and really grasp his surroundings. That would build this foundation for him to grow and learn at his own pace.” This philosophy recognises that children—particularly active boys like Riley—often need flexibility. Rather than forcing extended periods of desk work, the family works with their children’s natural rhythms. A morning worksheet, followed by time to run, swim, and explore, then returning to learning when energy has been expended and focus is restored. Integrating Learning with Travel One of the biggest questions families have about travel schooling is practical: how do you actually blend education with exploration? Kirianna shared how they make learning relevant by connecting it to real-world experiences. When Alba had a geography worksheet about Cairns, she could draw on her experience of actually snorkelling there. In Japan, the children learn about currencies and money by using train cards and shopping at markets. They visit monuments like Tokyo’s Sky Tree and connect those experiences to their Euka lessons. “A lot of the times we will go on an excursion and somehow, without even realising it, it kind of falls into our Euka learning,” Kirianna noted. This approach answers the question children naturally ask—”Why do I need to know this?”—immediately and tangibly. “Riley needs the flexibility to play and then come back. We see a lot more improvement from his behaviour when he’s able to do that.”— Kirianna, The Slow Road Offline Learning Strategies What happens when you’re crossing the Nullarbor or somewhere without internet? Preparation is key. “Everything that we have for a term is boxed up and put into packaging, so that we’re ready in case we don’t need to use our devices or have internet,” Kirianna explained. The family prints all worksheets ahead of time and accumulates hands-on materials and creative supplies—purchased from Japan’s excellent dollar shops—that allow learning to continue anywhere. Riley, who learns best through hands-on activities, particularly benefits from this approach. “If he can do with Play-Doh and create something as he’s learning, it sits better for him.” The children have containers with all their worksheets organised by subject, so they know exactly where everything is. “A lot of the times they don’t even know that they’re learning something because they’re being creative,” Kirianna noted. Living in a Small Space Life in a vintage Combi with three children requires creativity and intentionality. Yet Kirianna sees the constraints of small-space living as opportunities rather than limitations. “I’m really lucky because the children have all grown up in a small space,” she explained. The family has established clear boundaries: the caravan is for sleeping, while eating, playing, and learning happen outside. “Their playground is always out playing on the beach or at the front of the caravan.” This approach means outdoor learning becomes natural. Morning walks help children expend energy before quiet activities. Rainy days become opportunities for reading, colouring, and conversation. “Let’s get out for a morning walk. Let’s get out and let our energy burst. So that when we are cooped up, we can kind of have some quiet time.” Travel Highlights and Cultural Experiences The family has travelled extensively, including time in Hawaii, throughout Australia, and multiple trips to Japan. Each destination offers unique learning opportunities that simply can’t be replicated in a traditional classroom. In Japan, the children navigate train systems with their own travel cards, learning mathematics through real transactions. They explore cultural landmarks and bring those experiences back to their curriculum work. “When they are sitting down to research or fill out their worksheets or learn something new given by Euka, they can kind of picture it and it makes sense to them.” Support from Euka and Future Plans While travel schooling offers incredible flexibility, having solid educational support matters. Kirianna uses Euka to provide structure and ensure her children’s learning aligns with curriculum expectations. The platform’s flexibility—allowing resources to be downloaded and printed—makes it particularly suited to their lifestyle. “Every time that we have needed any assistance or support, it’s been very quick,” Kirianna shared. She particularly appreciated the guidance available when first getting organised, including YouTube tutorials on how to set up filing systems. “I’ve never been without a folder. I’ve always been able to ask questions and seek help.”The family has also written a book, The Slow Road Van Life, which shares their travel tips, recipes (Kirianna is a fire cook), destination recommendations, and insights into how they manage homeschooling on the road. It’s available at bookstores throughout New Zealand and Australia, as well as on Amazon. Key Insights for Families Kirianna’s experience highlights several truths that resonate with families exploring alternative education approaches: Learning through play is essential, especially for younger children and active learners. Children don’t need to sit still to absorb information—sometimes the opposite is true. Flexibility leads to better engagement. When children can learn at their own pace and in their own way, they often exceed expectations. “If I was to just sit him there for two hours of English then maths, I wouldn’t get the best out of him.” Real-life experiences enhance learning. Connecting curriculum to tangible experiences helps children understand why what they’re learning matters—and makes it stick.You need less space than you think. With intentionality and organisation, education can happen anywhere—including a vintage Combi. “Riley needs the flexibility to play and then come back. We see a lot more improvement from his behaviour when he’s able to do that.”— Kirianna, The Slow Road Your Family, Your Journey You don’t need a vintage Combi or plans to travel the world to embrace the lessons from Kirianna’s story. The core message is simple: learning is just a part of life. When we integrate education with our family’s unique circumstances—whatever those may be—children thrive. Whether you’re travelling the world or doing your homeschooling at home, Euka is there to empower you and your family on your unique journey. If you’re curious about how homeschooling could work for your family, we’re here to help you explore the possibilities. Your world really can be your classroom. figure.wp-block-table.testimonial-element { background-color:#fffdf5; } figure.wp-block-table.testimonial-element .has-fixed-layout td{ padding:2em 2em; border:none; border-left:.2em #e8a838 solid; } figure.wp-block-table.testimonial-element .has-fixed-layout td em{ display: block; margin-bottom: -1.1em; } figure.wp-block-table.testimonial-element .has-fixed-layout td strong{ font-size:.8em; } h3{ font-size:16px !important; font-weight:900; } The post The World Is Your Classroom: Travel Schooling with The Slow Road | 040 appeared first on Euka.

Host Brett Campbell, CEO of Euka Future Learning, joins co-founder and Head of Education, Ellen Brown, to unpack the findings from the recent Alternative School Settings and Homeschooling Performance Audit compiled by the New South Wales Auditor-General. Together, they explore the growing challenges families face with registration delays, the reasons behind the surge in homeschooling, […] The post Inside the NSW Homeschooling Audit: What It Means for Families | 039 appeared first on Euka.

Host Brett Campbell speaks with Brent and Maverick about their journey into homeschooling and why they chose an alternative to traditional schooling. They discuss misconceptions about homeschooling, the flexibility of Grade 11 & 12 homeschooling, and how it helped them balance study, work, and future goals. They also highlight the importance of family support and […] The post He earns 30K a year and homeschools | 038 appeared first on Euka.

In this episode of Future Learners, hosts Brett and Ellen discuss the upcoming homeschooling year, offering insights and tips for both new and existing homeschooling families. They emphasise the importance of planning ahead, celebrating milestones, and fostering community connections. The conversation also highlights personal growth for parents and the exciting developments coming to Euka in […] The post What you need to know about homeschooling in 2025 | 037 appeared first on Euka.

Brett Campbell and Ellen Brown discuss the growing concerns among parents regarding the influence of educational philosophies that emphasise social and political issues in the school curriculum. The post Is School Going “WOKE”? | 036 appeared first on Euka.

Brett and Ellen explore the real motivations behind why families choose homeschooling. The post The “True” Reasons families homeschool? | 035 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube About this Episode Brett and Ellen explore the real motivations behind why families choose homeschooling. They dive into the evolving perceptions and diverse reasons that drive families to embrace this educational path, debunking old stereotypes and highlighting the flexibility and benefits that homeschooling offers today.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube About this Episode Brett and Ellen dive into the essential aspects of homeschooling, focusing on the critical processes of registration and reporting. They provide comprehensive insights into what parents need to know to successfully navigate these requirements, ensuring their children receive a quality education at home.

Brett and Ellen dive into the essential aspects of homeschooling, focusing on the critical processes of registration and reporting. The post What you need to know about Registration and Reporting when Homeschooling | 034 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube About this Episode Brett and Ellen delve into the concept of travel schooling, where education is seamlessly integrated with travel experiences. They explore the numerous benefits, practical strategies, and unique opportunities that travel schooling offers. This episode provides essential insights for families considering this flexible approach to education, covering […] The post Travel Schooling: Everything you need to know | 033 appeared first on Euka.

Brett and Ellen delve into the concept of travel schooling, where education is seamlessly integrated with travel experiences. The post Travel Schooling: Everything you need to know | 033 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube About this Episode Brett and Ellen delve into the unique challenges and rewarding aspects of raising young boys. They discuss the importance of nurturing emotional intelligence, breaking traditional stereotypes, and the distinct differences in learning and development between boys and girls. This episode also covers practical tips for parents […] The post Raising young boys | 032 appeared first on Euka.

Brett and Ellen delve into the unique challenges and rewarding aspects of raising young boys. The post Raising young boys | 032 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube About this Episode Brett and Ellen discuss the importance of sleep for both children and adults, exploring its effects on mental, physical, and emotional health. They share insights on how sleep impacts learning and behaviour, offer practical tips for improving sleep quality, and emphasise the importance of establishing healthy […] The post Sleep! Are you and your kids getting enough? | 031 appeared first on Euka.

Brett and Ellen discuss the importance of sleep for both children and adults, exploring its effects on mental, physical, and emotional health. The post Sleep! Are you and your kids getting enough? | 031 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube About this episode In this episode of the “Future Learners” podcast, Brett and Ellen discuss practical strategies for setting up preschoolers for success in their learning journey. They explore the importance of intentional parenting, the role of play, and how to foster independence and curiosity in young children.

Brett and Ellen discuss practical strategies for setting up preschoolers for success in their learning journey. The post Setting your pre-schooler up for success | 030 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube About this episode In this episode 29 titled, “Should Children Under 16 Be Banned from Using Social Media?” , Brett and Ellen discuss the controversial topic of whether children under 16 should be banned from using social media. They explore the mental health impacts, safety concerns, and the roles […] The post Should children under 16 be banned from using social media? | 029 appeared first on Euka.

Brett and Ellen discuss the controversial topic of whether children under 16 should be banned from using social media. The post Should children under 16 be banned from using social media? | 029 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube About this episode In Episode 28 of the “Future Learners” podcast titled, “Should children learn handwriting in this digital world?“, Brett and Ellen discuss whether children should learn handwriting in today's digital world. They explore the cognitive benefits of handwriting, the impact of handwriting on learning and memory, and […] The post Should children learn handwriting in this digital world? | 028 appeared first on Euka.

Brett and Ellen discuss whether children should learn handwriting in today's digital world. The post Should children learn handwriting in this digital world? | 028 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube About this episode In Episode 27 of the “Future Learners” podcast titled, “The #1 Skill for Children to Learn.”, Brett and Ellen discuss the critical skill of reading, emphasising its importance in acquiring knowledge and effective communication. They provide practical tips for parents to support their children's reading journey, […] The post The #1 Skill for children to learn | 027 appeared first on Euka.

Brett and Ellen discuss the critical skill of reading, emphasising its importance in acquiring knowledge and effective communication. The post The #1 Skill for children to learn | 027 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube About this episode In episode 26 of the “Future Learners” podcast titled, “When should your child do work experience?” Brett and Ellen discuss the importance of work experience for homeschooled children. They emphasise the flexibility homeschooling provides in exploring various fields, starting as early as Grade 7. Parents play […] The post When should your child do work experience? | 026 appeared first on Euka.

Brett and Ellen discuss the importance of work experience for homeschooled children. The post When should your child do work experience? | 026 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube About this episode In this episode of “Future Learners,” titled, ‘How to build a strong family unit‘ hosts Brett and Ellen discuss the essential elements for building a strong family unit, emphasising the importance of effective communication, shared values, and the unique dynamics of diverse family structures. They highlight […] The post How to build a strong family unit | 025 appeared first on Euka.

In this episode of "Future Learners", hosts Brett and Ellen discuss the essential elements for building a strong family unit The post How to build a strong family unit | 025 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube About this episode Hosts, Brett Campbell and Ellen Brown discuss the importance of understanding and leveraging different learning preferences to enhance educational experiences for children. They explore how various learning styles can impact engagement and retention, in our latest episode titled: How to Retain 90% of Everything You Learn.

Hosts, Brett Campbell and Ellen Brown discuss the importance of understanding and leveraging different learning preferences to enhance educational experiences for children. The post How to retain 90% of everything you learn! | 024 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube About this episode Euka parent Brooke shares her transformative journey of homeschooling her son, Noah, who faces unique challenges such as dyslexia, ASD, and ADHD. She discusses the initial struggles with traditional schooling, the pivotal decision to homeschool, and the substantial progress Noah has made through tailored learning approaches […] The post Homeschooling with Dyslexia, ASD, and ADHD: A Mother's Inspirational Journey | 023 appeared first on Euka.

Euka parent Brooke shares her transformative journey of homeschooling her son, Noah, who faces unique challenges such as dyslexia, ASD, and ADHD. The post Homeschooling with Dyslexia, ASD, and ADHD: A Mother's Inspirational Journey | 023 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube | Amazon About this episode In the “Unlock Funding for Homeschooling” episode, Brett and Ellen delve into government support options for homeschooling families, highlighting Centrelink benefits and the Assistance for Isolated Children's Scheme. They emphasise the need for homeschooling registration and professional validation to access these funds, advocating for […] The post Unlock funding for homeschooling | 022 appeared first on Euka.

Brett and Ellen delve into government support options for homeschooling families, highlighting Centrelink benefits and the Assistance for Isolated Children's Scheme. The post Unlock funding for homeschooling | 022 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube | Amazon About this episode Brett and Ellen offer practical strategies for cost-effective homeschooling, highlighting the importance of planning, leveraging community resources, and prioritising experiences over expensive materials. They also discuss the benefits of utilising government support, preparing learning spaces, and investing wisely in durable educational tools.

Episode 21, "Moving from School to Homeschooling in Term 2," offers a comprehensive guide for families considering the switch to homeschooling. The post Moving from School to Homeschooling in term 2 | 021 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube | Amazon About this episode Brett and Ellen offer practical strategies for cost-effective homeschooling, highlighting the importance of planning, leveraging community resources, and prioritising experiences over expensive materials. They also discuss the benefits of utilising government support, preparing learning spaces, and investing wisely in durable educational tools.

Brett and Ellen offer practical strategies for cost-effective homeschooling, highlighting the importance of planning, leveraging community resources, and prioritising experiences over expensive materials. The post Homeschooling on a budget | 020 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube | Amazon About this episode Brett Campbell and Ellen Brown dive into the significance of encouraging risk-taking in children's development. They explore various dimensions where risk is vital, including outdoor play, creative expression, social interaction, academic exploration, and personal growth. They discuss how taking risks can enhance physical activity, […] The post The Importance of Raising Risk Takers | 019 appeared first on Euka.

Brett Campbell and Ellen Brown dive into the significance of encouraging risk-taking in children's development. The post The Importance of Raising Risk Takers | 019 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube | Amazon About this episode In this episode, Brett and Ellen discuss: Acknowledging Individuality: The episode begins with a discussion on the importance of recognising and nurturing the individuality of young girls, enabling them to grow into confident and courageous individuals. Building Confidence and Self-Esteem: The hosts delve into […] The post Empowering Girls: Building Confidence and Self-Esteem | 018 appeared first on Euka.

The episode begins with a discussion on the importance of recognising and nurturing the individuality of young girls, enabling them to grow into confident and courageous individuals. The post Empowering Girls: Building Confidence and Self-Esteem | 018 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Youtube | Amazon About this episode In this episode, Brett and Ellen discuss: Time Management Strategies: Understanding that homeschooling doesn't need to adhere to traditional school hours (9-3) and recognising the efficiency of focused one-on-one learning. Setting Boundaries: The importance of creating clear boundaries for homeschooling, distinguishing between work and […] The post 3 Major Obstacles Parents Face when Homeschooling | 017 appeared first on Euka.

Understanding that homeschooling doesn't need to adhere to traditional school hours (9-3) and recognising the efficiency of focused one-on-one learning. The post 3 Major Obstacles Parents Face when Homeschooling | 017 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Soundcloud | Youtube | Amazon About this episode In this episode, Brett and Ellen discuss: Introduction to Conflict Resolution: Brett and Ellen start the discussion by highlighting the significance of conflict resolution skills for families and their inclusion in the Euka program, as well as in the general school curriculum […] The post The most important skill a child can learn | 016 appeared first on Euka.

Brett and Ellen start the discussion by highlighting the significance of conflict resolution skills for families and their inclusion in the Euka program, as well as in the general school curriculum The post The most important skill a child can learn | 016 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Soundcloud | Youtube | Amazon About this episode In this episode, Brett and Ellen discuss: Introduction to Financial Literacy: The episode begins with Brett and Ellen discussing the importance of financial literacy and examining personal beliefs about money. They emphasise that understanding and potentially revising these beliefs are crucial for […] The post Cultivating Financial Literacy and Mindful Parenting | 015 appeared first on Euka.

The episode begins with Brett and Ellen discussing the importance of financial literacy and examining personal beliefs about money. The post Cultivating Financial Literacy and Mindful Parenting | 015 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Soundcloud | Youtube | Amazon About this episode In this episode, Brett and Ellen discuss: Introduction to Physical and Mental Health in Homeschooling: Brett and Ellen emphasise the importance of incorporating physical and mental health practices into homeschooling routines, acknowledging their personal interest and background in health and fitness. Nutrition […] The post Physical and mental health tips for homeschooling families | 014 appeared first on Euka.

Brett and Ellen emphasise the importance of incorporating physical and mental health practices into homeschooling routines, acknowledging their personal interest and background in health and fitness. The post Physical and mental health tips for homeschooling families | 014 appeared first on Euka.

Subscribe Apple | Spotify | Soundcloud | Youtube | Amazon About this episode In this episode, Brett and Ellen discuss: Brett and Ellen delve into the significance of being flexible and adaptable with homeschooling, stressing the importance for parents to have a plan that's open to changes. They tackle common worries faced by new homeschoolers, […] The post The ultimate Getting Started guide | 013 appeared first on Euka.

Brett and Ellen delve into the significance of being flexible and adaptable with homeschooling, stressing the importance for parents to have a plan that's open to changes. The post The ultimate Getting Started guide | 013 appeared first on Euka.