2024 finalists...

Jade Paget

Meerilinga Children and Community Services, Perth, WA

Jade is recognised for fostering continuous improvement through evidence-based strategies and a strengths-based approach as Meerilinga Children and Community Service’s Educational Leader. 

Jade's dedication to reflective practice has not only resulted in high-quality, research-led practices but also in a thriving culture of inclusivity. Her mentorship program has been instrumental in enhancing educators' pedagogy, fostering a sense of community and culture of critical reflection.

Jade works collaboratively with educators across Meerilinga’s services, conducting monthly curriculum planning sessions and co-facilitating peer training for Cert 3 and Diploma trainees. She promotes reflective practice and prioritises building strong relationships, developing valuable resources like Protective Behaviour to guide educators in implementing child safety into their curriculums.

Overall, Jade's leadership and the improvements she has implemented over the past 12 months have significantly impacted educators’ practices and knowledge, benefiting children and families by ensuring a high-quality educational experience.

Mel Rolls

Discovery Early Learning Centres, Burnie, TAS

With an extensive career in the education and care sector on the Northwest Coast of Tasmania, Mel’s expertise is best exemplified by her leadership in implementing Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) strategies. 

Through the Trauma Informed Practice-TBRI Project, facilitated by Dr. Elspeth Stephenson, Mel and her team embedded TBRI principles to support children with trauma-related behaviours. They focused on connecting, empowering, and correcting principles to disarm fear, build trust, and enhance learning. 

Mel's approach included mentoring, coaching, and role modelling to upskill educators. Her leadership transformed the service's pedagogy, enabling children to feel safe, valued, and connected. Educators now use positive behaviour support strategies, resulting in reduced disruptive behaviour and improved emotional resilience in children. 

Mel's work has created a holistic, flexible, and attachment-centred care environment.

Winner

C&K Walkervale Community Kindergarten

The Creche and Kindergarten Association, Bundaberg, QLD

C&K Walkervale Community Kindergarten is recognised for its dedication to improving outcomes for First Nations children and families.  

Led by director and teacher Kellie-Marie Aldridge, the team partnered with the Taribelang Aboriginal Corporation to overcome barriers to enrolment and attendance. 

They redesigned the learning environment, to incorporate Aboriginal language, history and culture, created a yarning circle and bush tucker garden, and provided essential resources like food, transport and clothing. 

These initiatives fostered a culturally safe and inclusive kindergarten, significantly increasing enrolment and attendance rates among First Nations children. The number of First Nations enrolments increased in 2024, with 36 per cent of families currently identifying as First Nations—an increase of 9 per cent from 2023, a testament to the success of the kindergarten's efforts.

The kindergarten's success has positioned it as a mentor for other early childhood centres. It shares its culturally responsive program and educational resources to further support First Nations communities. 

Kindy Patch Clarinda

G8 Education Ltd. Clarinda, VIC

Kindy Patch Clarinda is recognised for its proactive approach to addressing children's complex developmental needs through close collaboration with families and professional agencies.

The centre noted an increase in children needing higher supervision and identified barriers to accessing early intervention services, particularly for families with English as a second language.

To address these challenges, Kindy Patch Clarinda took proactive steps to support these families. They engaged multilingual team members and fostered collaborations with the Victorian Inclusion Agency and Allied Health.

They adapted environments and routines to be more inclusive, using resources from the Victorian Inclusion Agency Specialist Equipment Library and implementing social stories and communication tools and the centre team collaborated with teachers to align the use of visuals and specialised equipment in the school environment.

The centre’s approach has resulted in a supportive, inclusive, and culturally rich environment that promotes children's well-being and development.

Margaret Ives Community Children's Centre

Norwood, SA 

Margaret Ives Community Children's  Centre is recognised for its commitment to inclusivity. It welcomes all children regardless of culture, ability, gender identity, or family dynamic.

This dedication has led to significant positive impacts. Children from diverse backgrounds experience an enhanced sense of belonging and acceptance, resulting in greater confidence and self-esteem. Inclusive practices have improved educational outcomes by providing tailored support and diverse perspectives. 

The centre's commitment to reconciliation and inclusivity has strengthened community connections, enriching its programming and fostering a sense of belonging among staff, children, and families. 

Honouring diverse family dynamics and cultural traditions has increased parental engagement, leading to stronger partnerships and better support for children's development.

The centre promotes social justice and equity values, instilling empathy, fairness, and a deeper appreciation of diversity in the children it serves. By fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment, the centre makes a meaningful difference in the lives of children, families, and the broader community.