LIFE Ed has appointed Terese Hooper as the new chief executive officer to lead New South Wales’ most trusted health and wellbeing education provider behind the Healthy Harold program.

A qualified teacher, Ms Hooper’s journey with Life Ed began nearly a decade ago as an educator delivering Healthy Harold’s programs in Sydney’s Northern Beaches mobile learning centre, where she’s witnessed firsthand how education transforms children’s futures.

With more than 15 years’ experience across education, leadership and organisational development, Ms Hooper has held senior roles including director of education, chief operating officer, and acting CEO for Life Ed Northern Territory, driving strategic evolution and key partnerships across government, community and corporate sectors.

Now living in regional New South Wales, Ms Hooper brings a strong understanding of the diverse communities Life Ed serves across metropolitan, regional, and remote settings.

“Like many young people, my early world was shaped by instability and complexity,” Ms Hooper said.

Healthy Harold at Jellicoe Park in Moree last year.

“What changed my life was access to knowledge, trusted adults, and the belief that my future could be bigger than my circumstances.

“Life Ed creates those moments – where children feel safe to ask questions, learn how their body works, manage pressure, and build confidence, agency and hope.

“Our organisation exists to walk alongside children as they grow. By scaffolding learning year-on-year, we help them move from curiosity, to understanding, to confidence and ultimately to choice,” she said.

Life Ed NSW board chair, Ken Keith, praised Ms Hooper’s leadership.

“Terese combines deep program expertise with proven executive experience,” Mr Keith said.

“She’ll build on Life Ed’s strong foundation in leading age-appropriate, evidence-based education programs that equip every child with health literacy, resilience and decision-making capabilities for life’s big choices ahead.

Ms Hooper brings credentials from leading institutions, including the McKinsey Executive Leadership Program, a Chief Executive Women alumna and Australian Institute of Company Directors.

As CEO, she’ll guide Life Ed through its next phase of growth and impact.

“My commitment is ensuring every child has the knowledge and support to pursue a healthy future full of possibility,” she said.

“This work isn’t just prevention – it’s about potential, and every child deserves the chance to realise it.”