When a parent comes back to the centre or writes an email telling us how well their child is doing at school; that’s the most rewarding part of my job. It’s those small moments that make you feel proud about the work you’re doing.
Recently I had a conversation with a Mum about her child who had just received a reading award at school, and she mentioned that the other children who had received awards had also attended Moore St EEC. That’s our goal here: to help support the children with key life skills to enter the world. It’s less about the reading and academics, but more about giving them the opportunity to be who they are, to provide a supportive environment where they can grow and thrive.
I’ve been working at Moore St EEC pretty much since I left high school, and Council’s supported me in the ongoing education I’ve done – both through TAFE and university. When I left high school, I wanted to do something different and I was inclined towards working in an educational setting, something not in an office. I went out on a limb and applied for a position as an aide, and have worked my way up to the Director position here.
The best part of my job is supporting my team to help them achieve their career goals. We have such a wonderfully diverse team here – from new school-leavers to people at the end of their career journeys. I love seeing their growth and their development as well as their passion for the 90 families we help support each week.
Council has been a really supportive workplace for me too. I’ve always felt encouraged to stretch myself into new positions, which has helped me get to where I am today.