The CLEAR Education Team
Meet Our Passionate Tutors!
Our tutors, already having excelled under the direction of CLEAR are also continually mentored and trained by Karene Buchanan. They have each shown an exceptional drive to achieve outstanding results, immersing themselves in the friendly, but driven atmosphere CLEAR Education provides. Each mentor has excelled in English or Maths and has the ability to communicate and teach effectively.
Meet the team below!
Karene Buchanan (Lucas), Founder
Karene Buchanan holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Education in English and Drama which was completed at UNSW in 1998. She taught at St Spyridon College for 8 years and then had her first child in 2009. She then started a part time tutoring business which has now flourished into CLEAR. Her passion is for students to receive a good education to ensure they get the results they need to successfully fulfil their career goals.
"We focus on specialised one on one lessons to individually support and challenge each of our students. We have chosen ex students to become a part of our team as they have excelled using our CLEAR approach and they are excited to share their knowledge and skills with their students. The process of selecting the appropriate tutor for our students is also integral to our approach. If a student has a dynamic tutor who can build rapport, motivate and extend them, then their commitment will improve as will their
Confidence, Literacy, Effort, Abilities and Results and that is the whole point of CLEAR."
The tutors, the role models, the champions
Lucas Fagundes-Lydon
English isn’t an easy subject, especially if it doesn’t come naturally to you, but I promise you, it doesn’t have to be as daunting as it seems. Karene, our director at CLEAR Education, taught me personally at my high school of Marist College Kogarah. She proved to me, and everyone time and time again, that with a guiding hand to show you direction, and a personal desire to self-actualise, you can achieve whatever mark or band you desire in this subject.
I was fortunate and privileged enough to have gifted and dedicated teachers at my high school like Karene. It was only through their help and the supportive environment that they created, that I was able to achieve my goals of a band 6 and E4 in both Advanced and Extension English respectively. Karene made it clear to me, if you give this subject what it deserves and commit yourself to making the at first inconceivable a reality, it will happen.
Karene, my colleagues and I ensure that when you walk through the doors of CLEAR Education, you walk into a community that only wants the best for you and will make sure that you have every tool necessary to become the best you can be at English. So, come to CLEAR Education, and let us show you the abilities you didn’t even know you had.
Alyana Kondilios
Alyana graduated from Reddam House in 2022 and was an ex student of CLEAR Education. She is passionate about Art, Legal and Math but always struggled with English. With the help of her tutors, Karene and Kshaunish, she gained confidence and her rankings significantly increased. She received an overall ATAR of 95.80 and received Band 6's in English Advanced, Math Advanced, Legal Studies and Art.
Now studying a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours), Alyana will use this, her personal experience and understanding that each student learns differently, to find a way to extrapolate the best of all her students abilities and help them to improve as best they can.
Rishi Beer
Rishi graduated from Reddaam House in 2022 with an ATAR of 95.45. He achieved a band 6 in Music One, Modern History, Extension History, Advanced English and Advanced Mathematics which he completed as an accelerated subject.
Despite his eventual result in English, it was far from a subject that came naturally to him. From labouring and learning how to write effectively throughout year 10 and 11, Rishi believe's he has gained the skill and insight to teach students how to improve and excel in a range of subjects.
He is studying a double degree of Law/Science at UTS, as he has discovered he has a great interest for both the humanities and sciences throughout high school.
Alexandra Zogopoulos
Alexandra graduated St Scholastica’s College, Glebe Point, in 2019 with an ATAR of 96.45. As the school captain, she was proud of implementing new initiatives at school. She studies a variety of subjects and achieved band 6s in Chemistry, Japanese, Society and Culture and English Advanced. As she loved all her subjects and has a passion for learning, she decided to pursue Arts and Science at University.
Alexandra graduated from USYD in 2022 with a degree in Global Studies and Chemistry. She is now studying a Bachelor of Midwifery at UTS. Alexandra takes a holistic approach when assisting students at Clear Education to improve their confidence in their studies and feel encouraged in all aspects of school life.
Peter Ghobrial
Peter Ghobrial graduated from St Mark's Coptic Orthodox College in 2020 and now studies Veterinary Science. He has always been passionate about maths and science, achieving band 6s in Extension 1 and 2 Mathematics while still in Year 11 and band 6s in both Chemistry and Physics in Year 12.
Throughout highschool, his internal ranks in English were always low compared to his ranks in other subjects. Before joining CLEAR education, he had accepted the fact that he would not do well in English. However, with the help of Lucas and Zach, he was able to rebuild his essay writing foundations and learn the power of simplicity in a good essay. Then, with the guidance of Karene throughout year 12, Peter not only improved his ranks but gained confidence in his writing skills and went on to achieve a mark of 88/100 in English Advanced which, although not his highest mark, is the mark he is most proud of.
Peter's goal at CLEAR education is to motivate students by helping them to deeply understand and visualise concepts rather than to simply memorise them.
Mihalis Dovellos
Mihalis graduated from St. Spyridon College Highschool in 2021 and completed his HSC with an ATAR of 98.00. He completed 13 units, those being English Advanced, Mathematics Extension 1 & 2, Physics, Chemistry, Modern Greek Continuers/Extension.
By connecting and further learning his family’s native language within the subject of Modern Greek, he achieved 5th in the state. Mihalis’ love for Mathematics, on the other hand, is driven by his great satisfaction in solving difficult and perplexing questions. With Modern Greek and Mathematics Extension 1 & 2 being his most enjoyed subjects, he hopes to instill this same enthusiasm and passion into his students.
He now studies at the University of New South Wales, undertaking a Bachelor of Actuarial Studies and Science. Outside of the realm of education, he mostly enjoys kickboxing as it is a fun way to exercise whilst also socialising and meeting others in the gym.
Lucia Habib
In 2023, Lucia graduated from SCEGGS Darlinghurst. By employing Karene's guidance during her final years, she managed to enhance the complexity of her writing, resulting in clear and sophisticated essays. This skill was able to be utilised in other subjects, yielding a significant overall advantage. Lucia was able to improve at tackling difficult problem-solving questions in Advanced Math with the help of her tutor, Alyana. Lucia's HSC subjects were: Advanced Math, Avanced English, Biology, Drama and Art. She thoroughly enjoyed Biology and as a result is majoring in Biology at Univeristy.
Having previously attended CLEAR Education, she is aware of the challenges associated with the extensive workload involved in HSC preparation. Nevertheless, she will use her personal experience to guide her efforts in helping each student succeed. Lucia aspires for all of her students to graduate from high school with a sense of confidence in their academic abilities.
Ben Valdeabella
Ben graduated from Champagnat Catholic College in 2022 with a band 6 in English Advanced, Modern History, History Extension, Studies of Religion II and Legal Studies, receiving an ATAR of 97.75 and DUX. Ben also achieved an E3 in Extension English. He is currently studying a double degree in law and arts at UNSW.
Having had Lucas as a tutor at CLEAR, Ben was able to significantly improve his English skills, as reflected in his success in the HSC. Inspired by Lucas’ experience, Ben similarly strives to foster an engaging environment for students studying English and education in general.
Ben’s interests in contemporary guitar and rock climbing reflects his balanced and holistic approach to life, which he aims to promote for his students and their education.
Ella Howard
Ella Howard is a 2023 graduate from Brigidine College Randwick and was a student at Clear Education. Ella achieved an atar of 90, and through her hard work and diligence, she obtained a band 6 in Business Studies.
With the help of Jocelyne as her maths tutor and Ben as her English tutor, her marks drastically improved in both subjects. Ella also learnt many skills that she will pass on to other students to ensure they achieve the marks they desire.
Her love for both the subjects of Design and Technology and Business Studies led her to pursue a double degree in Design and Commerce at UNSW. Ella hopes to help and support students in broadening their confidence in their subjects and achieve their academic goals.
Jayden Kuris
Meet Jayden, a CLEAR Education alumnus and dedicated tutor, graduating from Moriah College in 2023 with an ATAR of 97.65. Under the guidance of tutors Lucas and Chloe at CLEAR Education, Jayden excelled in English Advanced and Extension 2 Mathematics, experiencing marked improvement in Year 12.
His academic prowess is evident in achievements such as scoring 91/100 (E4) in Extension 1 Mathematics, an E3 in Extension 2 Mathematics, and 90/100 in English Advanced. Jayden's passion extends to the hard sciences and music, reflected in high Band 5 scores in Chemistry and Physics, and a Band 6 (97/100) in Music 2, where he ranked first in his class.
Attributing his success to diligence, determination, and hard work, Jayden, currently pursuing a double degree in Aerospace Engineering and Commerce at UNSW, is eager to share his expertise. As a committed tutor, he fosters a positive and safe learning environment, instilling values of resilience, dedication, and discipline. Jayden aims to mentor students, fuelling their passion for English, Science, and Mathematics whilst building unshakable confidence in the HSC.
His mission is to deepen understanding and comprehensively prepare students for success in these crucial subjects, ensuring confidence in facing the challenges and triumphs of their HSC journey.
Chloe Turner
Chloe is a 2022 graduate of OLSH College Kensington, and achieved an atar 91.85. With the aid of members of the Clear Education team, she was able to reach an E4 in Extension 1 Mathematics, and an E3 in Extension 2, whilst obtaining successful marks in Physics and Chemistry as well. Continuing her passion for exploring the STEM field, Chloe is currently studying a Bachelor of Engineering at UNSW.
Chloe understands the challenges that maths brings and hopes to instill new strategies that will aid in approaching the complex and unusual exam questions. She hopes that she may help students to gain confidence in their abilities and nurture passion for science and mathematics.
Shauna Peppard
Shauna Peppard is an ex-student of CLEAR Education, graduating from Brigidine College Randwick in 2023 with an ATAR of 96.55.
With the help and support of her tutor, Alice, Shauna was able to rank 1st in her cohort for HSC Trials and become 1 of only 120 students in NSW to achieve a Band 6 in English Standard. Shauna was also awarded the NSW Premier's All Rounder's Award for achieving a band 6 in all of her subjects, including Maths Standard 2, English Standard, Business, PDHPE, Studies of Religion 1, and Hospitality.
Her passion for supporting others inspired her to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Speech Pathology at The University of Sydney. Shauna hopes to guide students to reach their full potential by sharing her knowledge and study techniques to boost their confidence and reduce stress.
Darren Tjioe
The HSC may sometimes feel impossible to conquer, but any success story is possible when you believe and have the right people guiding you to the end. Having completed this journey with the rare privilege of such guidance, Darren is determined to help you find and couple self-belief with an elegant voice in English and other writing-based subjects.
Darren graduated from Champagnat Catholic College in 2022 with a band 6 in English Advanced, Studies of Religion II, Visual Arts and Modern History, ultimately receiving an ATAR of 96.75. He is studying a Bachelor of Psychology Honours at the University of Sydney.
Darren developed a passion for art in high school, which inspired him to create seven novel paintings of his dog for his major work. The creative aspect of art also benefited Darren’s analytical skills in ways that sharpened his approach to unseen English texts and other modules: one of many critical skills he is keen on sharing at CLEAR.
It is Darren’s aim to ensure that you not only nail the fundamental and more nuanced skills conducive to shining in English, but do so with greater passion for the subject.
Eleanna Gatsi
Eleanna Gatsi graduated from Blakehurst High School in 2023 with an ATAR of 95.95. She was tutored by Karene in Years 11 and 12 in English Advanced who helped her gain confidence, improve her essay writing skills and the ability to adapt to an array of HSC style questions. Karene’s assistance and guidance, coupled with hard work, assisted Eleanna in achieving 1st place in her cohort.
At her school, she also came 1st in Mathematics Standard 2, Modern Greek Continuers & Extension, 2nd in Italian Beginners and 3rd in PDHPE. Eleanna also achieved many band 6s in the HSC including; English Advanced (91/100), Mathematics Standard 2 (93/100), Italian Beginners (96/100), Modern Greek Continuers (97/100) and Modern Greek Extension (47/50). Additionally, she also received two state rankings: 6th in the State in Modern Greek Continuers and 8th in the State for Modern Greek Extension.
She is currently studying a Bachelor of Speech Pathology at the University of Sydney. Eleanna is very proud of her achievements and personal growth throughout her HSC journey and hopes to instil in her students that with hard work, dedication and perseverance they will be able to gain confidence and motivation to achieve their goals.
Jessica Dang
Jessica graduated from Sydney Girls High School in 2022 and also attended the OC for Woollahra Public School. She understands the requirements of academically selective exams and how to best prepare your children to excel their skills in maths and english. Completing Mathematics Extension 2, English Extension 1, Engineering Studies, Chemistry and accelerated IPT for her HSC studies; her love for these subjects led her to start studying at USYD with a Bachelor of Engineering Honours/ Commerce.
Also an ex-student of CLEAR Education, she understands how difficult the workload and preparation for the HSC is, but drawing from her own experience she will do her best to adapt to and improve every student she has.
Jessica hopes all her students will feel confident in their studies afterwards and go to excel in their future studies.
Aaron Kaganovich
Aaron Kaganovich is an ex-student of CLEAR Education, graduating from St Spyridon College in 2023 with an ATAR of 92.80. Under the guidance of his tutors, Lucas and Peter, he was able to significantly improve in English, achieving a mark of 86 in English Advanced in the HSC. Further to this, Aaron also achieved a 92 in Business Studies, 91 in Legal Studies, 87 in Economics, 85 in English Advanced and 83 in Modern History.
Taking advantage of his passion for sports and business, Aaron is currently studying a Bachelor of Management majoring in Sports Business and Entrepreneurship and Innovation at UTS. The HSC is no easy task, and it is not made any easier without the proper support and guidance. Aaron will apply his values of dedication, hard work, discipline and resilience whilst also providing a nurturing learning environment to create a comfortable learning experience for all. Aaron is eager to mentor students and share his passion for Math, Business and Modern History.
Yasmine Nanayakkara
Yasmine graduated from OLSH college in 2024. She has a strong background in English, achieving a band 6 in English advanced and a high E3 in English Extension 1 in the HSC.
Yasmine has a strong passion for empowerment and helping others as she is currently studying a Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) at UNSW. She believes in the importance of confidence, discipline and dedication to overcome academic obstacles.
Yasmine understands the effectiveness of breaking down concepts and the usefulness of repetition to understand difficult ideas. She strives to create a supportive and enthusiastic learning environment, enabling students to reach their full potential and academic goals.
Wei Xin
Wei Xin is a passionate tutor with a strong background in science. In 2022, she completed a Foundation in Science at International Medical University and achieved a GPA of 3.82/4.00 which is equivalent to an ATAR of 98.
Wei Xin is currently studying a Bachelor of Science in Medical Science and Neuroscience at the University of Sydney. From her own experience she recognises the common challenges students face when learning difficult concepts. She understands the importance of breaking these concepts down into clear and memorable explanations that promote genuine understanding as opposed to rote memorisation.
Additionally, Wei Xin believes that tutoring should go beyond mere academic excellence to ensure that students can make meaningful use of their knowledge outside the classroom.
Eleni Matsos
Eleni recently graduated from St Vincent’s College as a Drama Scholarship recipient in 2024 where she completed English Advanced, Maths Advanced, Modern History, Legal Studies, Drama, and Studies of Religion (1 Unit). During her HSC, Eleni received a band 6 in 4 of her subjects (English, Drama, Modern History, Legal Studies) which resulted in a 92.65 ATAR and an OnSTAGE nomination for her drama major work.
As a student of the Clear Education community since Year 6, Eleni believes that education is one of the most empowering tools in life. Inspired by the confidence and skills she gained through Clear Education, she is passionate about helping students feel empowered in their own abilities, contributing to her aspirations to become a high school teacher. She is commencing a Bachelor of Education/Advanced Studies at The University Of Sydney in 2025.
Eleni succeeded in school by innovating structured and efficient ways of studying for her content heavy and writing based subjects, Eleni is committed to passing on her knowledge and skill set to future students. With her supportive and compassionate approach, she aims to build her students' confidence and enthusiasm, ensuring they reach their full academic potential.
Jasmine Karagiannis
Jasmine graduated from Brigidine College Randwick in 2024 with a Band 6 in Personal Health Development and Physical Education (PDHPE), Studies of Religion II, and Hospitality, as well as high Band 5s in Standard English and Standard Mathematics. Her discipline and determination earned her an ATAR of 93
She is currently studying Sport and Exercise Science at UTS, as she continues to exercise her passion for learning, sport and helping others. As a former Year 12 student at Clear Education, she credits the community's support for playing a key role in her success.
Jasmine is enthusiastic about simplifying complex concepts and using unique and fun learning strategies. She believes tutoring should be an exciting environment where students are eager to participate and do their best.
