Talks & Workshops
From students to teachers, librarians to parents
Adaptable for all ages, groups, and New Zealand locations
An accomplished public speaker with many years of teaching and theatre performance experience, Jessica is an energetic, engaging presenter who is equally comfortable in small dedicated classes or on the main stage.
With a (pending) PhD in Education, a Master's degree in English, a Bachelor's degree in English & Media Studies, a Diploma in Creative Writing, and a decade of teaching and tutoring experience, Jessica is well-qualified to run educational and writing workshops for both adults and youth.
If you are interested in having Jessica visit your school or group, please peruse the details below and then complete the form linked at the bottom of this page (will open a new window).
Jessica is based in Auckland, New Zealand, but is willing to travel to any location, subject to availability and travel reimbursement.
Types of talks, workshops, and presentations available:
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Author talks and creative workshops
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Public library visits and workshops
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School library visits
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Teaching staff PD (primary & secondary)
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Student workshops (primary & secondary)
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Professional association conference keynotes
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Parent education sessions for schools/PTA
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Bookshop events
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Academic conferences (PhD Education research)
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Book festivals
2026 AVAILABILITY
Both in-person and digital appearances are available.
Daytime sessions during school terms
For Auckland and online visits, most Wednesdays are available to book. Some Mondays may also be negotiable. Other weekdays during school hours have very limited availability but arrangements may be possible for limited-time events (e.g. conferences).
For visits beyond Auckland, Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays are best this year; please allow for travel & accommodation in your budget before submitting your query. (Perhaps consider combining your booking with other organisations or schools to split travel costs.)
Daytime sessions during school holidays
Availability is generally much more flexible; please submit your query at least 1 month in advance.
Evening Sessions
For Auckland and online visits, evening sessions (e.g. parent education workshops, bookstore events) are negotiable for Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
For evening visits beyond Auckland, please see Daytime info above.
Bookings for 2026 are available up until mid-December. Availability for 2027 is not yet confirmed, but please submit your query ASAP to assist with scheduling.
COSTS
The appearance fee depends on session type, length, number of sessions, time of day, and travel requirements.
There is also an additional cost for interactive workshops such as creative writing sessions, depending on the size of the group. (Regular Q&A interactions are included in all other talks and presentations.)
Depending on travel arrangements, there may also be an additional cost for the wings.
Costs may be offset for school and community groups by allowing Jessica to sell books before and during her visit - more information will be provided upon request.
Jessica's availability is limited, so it is advisable to submit your query as soon as possible to receive confirmation of availability and a quote.
