Isabella’s Story

Isabella has always been a happy and easy-going child with an infectious smile and a love for getting involved in everything around her. But her early years brought challenges that her parents, Danielle de Veaux and Craig Amner, never expected.

“Around the age of two and a half, we began noticing some delays in her speech development,” recalls Craig. “We’d see other children her age starting to talk and play together, and it became clear that Bella was doing things a little differently.”

Preschool teachers began sharing similar observations, which led Bella’s parents to seek professional advice. Bella was soon diagnosed with a developmental delay and, six months before starting school, with Autism.

“As a mum, when you start to hear things that suggest your child might be different, it’s a very scary realisation,” Danielle explains. “Starting therapy at such a young age felt isolating. It’s a lonely journey, especially in the beginning. But Bella just took it all in her stride — she has always been such a happy child who doesn’t see obstacles, only possibilities.”

When it came time to choose a school, Danielle and Craig were determined to find a place where Bella could feel supported and understood. “We were really concerned she might fall behind in a large classroom and get lost in the system,” says Danielle. “The thought of her starting primary school filled me with dread.”

That all changed when they discovered St Gabriel’s School. “The relief I felt when we found St Gabriel’s was unimaginable,” Danielle says. “I just knew it was the right place for Bella.”

Now in Year 3, Bella is thriving. She’s developed close friendships, enjoys music and art, and looks forward to Lego Club and Swim School each year. “The routines at school make a huge difference,” Danielle explains. “Knowing what to expect each day helps her feel calm and confident. She wakes up every morning excited for the day ahead.”

Danielle and Craig couldn’t be happier with their choice. “We are blown away with the care and professionalism all the teachers and staff have. We feel at peace knowing Bella is in the best possible school to reach her potential and we’re so excited to see what the next nine years at St Gabriel’s will bring.”

Help support Isabella and other students at St Gabriel’s School by giving to St Gabriel's 2025 Christmas Appeal.