Small Steps Academy Educators

Years of Experience: 21 years
Qualifications & Training: Diploma in Early Childhood Education with comprehensive training in Montessori and Reggio Approaches.
What I would like children to learn from me:  I will Instil a love of learning in each child by providing a warm, inviting and interesting environment, which promotes creativity, exploration and collaboration. Teaching children to be respectful for one another, their environment, materials and ideas. Expressing themselves by cultivating their creative thinking and communication skills. Teaching children to be curious, asking questions, reflecting, and being active in their learning.
Why I love working with children:  I have many reasons I love to work with children. 1. Being that children are naturally curious and eager to learn, which makes teaching them a truly rewarding experience. I love to see their eyes light up when they discover something new, or they have completed a challenging task. They have the ability to see the world in a different and imaginative way, which I find refreshing and have a natural way of looking at the world without the limitations of society which can inspire creativity and out-of-the-box-thinking. Making a positive impact on their lives through my guidance I can instill values such as respect, resilience and empathy. I Find working with children is a privilege and a joy. Seeing the world through their eyes, connecting with families and communities. All of this is such a rewarding experience that makes me so grateful for my role here at Small Steps Academy.

Years of Experience: 40 years
Qualifications & Training: Diploma in Childcare
What I would like children to learn from me: How to love, trust and respect others and the environment that we live in.  I would like them to learn how to care for and protect the environment which will potentially be their own children’s future.
Why I love working with children:  I love that children have no pre conceived ideas of the world and that they learn by living in the moment.  I get so much satisfaction from guiding them on their learning journey and supporting them along the way.

Years of Experience: I have been in the early childhood industry for 18 years as well as 2 years in a school based before and after school care setting
Qualifications & Training: I hold a certificate III and Diploma in early childhood education and care, I am trained in CPR and First Aid, and I have completed a child’s brain development and behavioral professional development course
What I would like children to learn from me:  I like to guide and encourage children to learn from me how to be confident and engage learners, to try new things and follow their interests.  To be resilient and keep trying in challenging time. Encouraging them to have a willingness to respect others and the ability to operate in an independent manner and show that knowledge can be gained in all sorts of amazing, fun and creative ways.
Why I love working with children:  I love working with children because its is rewarding to see each of them grow, learn and make personal achievements at their own pace. Working with children brings me joy each and every day, it has taught me to be a calm and patient person. I enjoy seeing children explore the world around them and engaging in learning opportunities that help them develop life long skills.

Years of Experience: 30 years
Qualifications & Training: Diploma, blue card, first aid, certificate 4 in work place assessment and training, certificate 4 in risk assessment, mum of four, grandma of four.
What I would like children to learn from me:  I want all children to believe in themselves. I want them to know perseverance is what makes us stronger and when we make mistakes it's the way we learn and a closer step to reaching our goals.  NEVER GIVE UP!  Respect our friends/family/teachers.  Treat everyone how you want to be treated.  Also I like to teach honesty is the best policy.  Resilience is one of my favourite words ' you don't always get want you want.  Success comes with hard work.  It's not always about me/you.  We must take responsibility for our actions and learn accountability.  I think an important lesson to teach children is to treat others with empathy and kindness, this will help them to develop healthy and lasting connections.
Why I love working with children:  I love working with children b because I love playing a key role in shaping their future.  I get to explore the world again with all children and enjoy the creativity of play as I did as a child.  In other words  I never want to grow up.  Children are our future.  And chances are some of the children I have guided in their journey will be looking after me in a nursing home!  I am a firm believer in what goes around comes around.

Years of Experience: I have been teaching Kindergarten classes for over 15 years
Qualifications & Training: I hold a Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood Education
What I would like children to learn from me: Independence and confidence in themselves, kindness and compassion towards others, and a sense of respect and responsibility towards nature and their environment.
Why I love working with children: I love the way that children view the world and their natural curiosity about everything around them. Their excitement about discovering new things drives my own passion to facilitate learning and create engaging experiences.

Years of Experience: I have been in early childhood education for over 13 years
Qualifications & Training: I hold a Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood Education
What I would like children to learn from me: I hope children learn from me that kindness is powerful and that the way we treat one another truly matters. I want them to experience what it feels like to be cared for, listened to and valued, so they in turn learn to care deeply for others. Through everyday moments, sharing stories, resolving conflicts gently, comforting a friend, I model empathy, patience and compassion. I want childhood to be protected. A time where children are not rushed, not pressured to grow up too quickly, but given space to wonder, explore and simply be. A place where joy is found in muddy puddles, loose parts, dappled sunlight and shared laughter. I hope children develop a love and respect for the natural world. That they notice the changing sky, feel connected to the seasons, and understand that we are part of nature and not separate from it. Through caring for our environment, tending to plants, respecting living things and reducing waste, children learn that small hands can make a meaningful difference. Above all, I want every child to know they matter, their feelings are important, and kindness is strength.
Why I love working with children: I love working with children because early childhood is the foundation of lifelong learning. These early years are precious and powerful, shaping how children see themselves and the world around them. Children are naturally curious and capable. They absorb experiences, language and relationships from everything around them. It is a privilege to nurture that curiosity, to provide rich experiences, and to walk alongside them as they grow, explore and make sense of their world. Being part of those first discoveries, questions and connections is both an honour and a responsibility I hold deeply.  

Years of Experience:  I have over 7 years experience working in the Early Education field.
Qualifications & Training: I hold a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and I am currently studying to obtain an Early Childhood Bachelor of Education Degree.
What I would like children to learn from me:  I love being myself, I know what makes me happy. I am comfortable within me. I would like children to learn this from me by loving themselves and finding happiness within. I want children to know they are happy and to figure out how to regulate their own emotions to make themselves comfortable.
Why I love working with children:  I love working with children because I can see them grow. I am there to witness these beautiful children transform. I can help them to maximise their abilities that's why I love being with children and why I love going through this journey with them.

Years of Experience:  16 Years
Qualifications & Training: Diploma in Early Childcare Education
What I would like children to learn from me:  To be confident and inquisitive learners and that there are no limits to their imagination and creativity.
Why I love working with children: I love that no single day at work is the same.  I enjoy watching people grow and develop into confident, self-sufficient learners in their own way and in their own time.  Children are, by nature, very curious and at times can say and ask some of the funniest things you have ever heard and as much as they are learning from me daily, I am always learning from them.  Seeing children grow from being babies then toddlers and eventually kinder children ready to go to school is incredible.  The look on a child’s face when they achieve something tricky is priceless.

Years of Experience:  11 years
Qualifications & Training: Certificate 3 in children's Services (2012), Certificate 3 in early childhood education (2013), Diploma in early childhood education (2022)
What I would like children to learn from me:  Singing and dancing and how to express their creative side. I want to teach them to be independent learners.
Why I love working with children: Working with children has always been my passion. I enjoy meeting new families and helping support children along on their journey.

Years of Experience: 3 years
Qualifications & Training: I have completed my Certificate III in Childcare and Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care
What I would like children to learn from me: I would like them to learn the importance of kindness and empathy.  I believe that by modelling these qualities, I can encourage them to treat others with respect and compassion.  I want them to understand the power of their words and actions and to use them for good.
Why I love working with children:  Children can be incredible curious and imaginative, which means every day unique and exciting.  Additionally, being with children can be very rewarding.  You have the opportunity to help shape their minds and influence their future, which is both challenging and fulfilling.

Years of Experience:  Mother of two beautiful children, aged 19 and 17.  Have been working at small Steps for 3 months now
Qualifications & Training: Currently studying Certificate III in Childcare
What I would like children to learn from me:  important life skills including communication, honesty, manners and to treat others as you wish to be treated.
Why I love working with children: not only it is fun, it is so rewarding.  Watching them grow through the different stages in their lives and seeing what the future brings.

Years of Experience: 8 months
Qualifications & Training: Studying Certificate III in Childcare, graduated Year 12
What I would like children to learn from me:  How to respect each other, have fun and make friends.
Why I love working with children:  I love to see children come out of their shells, make friends and watch them grow,  I love being apart of children’s growth into the world and helping them discover themselves

Years of Experience: Teacher Aid 3-4 Years Mother of 4
Qualifications & Training:  Certificate III Education Support, Currently studying Certificate III in Early Childcare
What I would like children to learn from me:  I would like them to learn how to use their words and know that they have a voice and a right to be heard.
Why I love working with children:  I believe there is nothing more important than our next generation and being apart of their journey is a privilege.  My childcare journey is only just beginning, but I'm looking forward to the years to come.

Years of Experience: Less than 1 year
Qualifications & Training: Currently Studying Certificate III in Childcare, Year 12 Education
What I would like children to learn from me:  Children will learn how to be independent and will learn how to do things on their own.
Why I love working with children:  I love working with children because I love seeing them grow into their own personalities.

Years of Experience: 2 years.
Qualifications & Training:  Certificate III Qualified.
What I would like children to learn from me: I would like them to learn new skills and to treat their friends and everyone the way they want to be treated.
Why I love working with children:  I love seeing them grow and learn.  It feels really rewarding to see them learn new skills or reach a milestone.

Years of Experience: 9 Months
Qualifications & Training:  I am currently studying my certificate III in early childhood education and care. I am CPR and first aid qualified
What I would like children to learn from me: I would like to help children learn how to become their own person, how to speak their mind and how to embrace new things by guiding them and not forcing them. Every child develops at their own pace and I would like to help them learn at their own pace and level.
Why I love working with children: I love working with children because helping them learn and develop is such a wonderful feeling. Working with children is a privilege as you get to see their first words, first steps and all other achievements.

Years of Experience:  2020 – Current (Daycare) 2018 – 2020 (Schoolies)
Qualifications & Training: Currently Studying Certificate III
What I would like children to learn from me:  Positivity, love, confidence, independence and security.
Why I love working with children: Because they teach me patience.  I’ve had a passion for children since I’ve left school and daycare was my first step to experience working with children of any age group.  To watch and see the children day by day gives me a purpose to wake up knowing I’m teaching and seeing growth in what I love.  Makes me happy when I see the parents pleased that their child feels safe and comfortable with my presence.  Best feeling of security for me personally.

Years of Experience:  2 years
Qualifications & Training: Certificate III in Childcare, studying Diploma
What I would like children to learn from me:  As an educator I believe it is vital and aim to teach children independence and resilience through practical life skills and nurturing their creativity.  Overall to shape them into good people and preparing them for a fulfilling life.
Why I love working with children: I love working with children as it is my passion.  I love helping them reach their milestones and watching them learn and grow.

Years of Experience:  This is my first year in Childcare
Qualifications & Training: Certificate III
What I would like children to learn from me: I would like the children to learn from me to be confident, try different things and play positively and respectfully with their peers.
Why I love working with children: I am passionate about working in childcare because it gives me the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of the children. I find joy in helping them learn and grow and being able to contribute to their development, it is incredibly rewarding for me. I value the chance to create a safe and nurturing environment where children can explore discover and have fun. It brings me great satisfaction to witness their milestones and see how they develop their unique personalities and skills. My dedication stems from the belief that every child deserves love, care and guidance to reach their potential.

Years of Experience: 7 years
Qualifications & Training: Certificate IV in Education, First Aid and CPR.
What I would like children to learn from me:  To demonstrate respect and self awareness, and behaving the manner we expect children to behave.
Why I love working with children: I love working with children because it gives me an opportunity to teach them useful skills, teach them life lessons and most of all important knowledge.

Years of Experience: 13 years
Qualifications & Training:  Certificate III in early childhood education, In safe hands, First Aid and CPR
What I would like children to learn from me: I believe in the power of building strong friendships, practicing kindness and empathy towards others, and embracing growth and development. I also encourage children to nurture their curiosity and never stop learning and exploring the world around them. By embodying these values, I hope to inspire and guide children towards a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Why I love working with children:  Working with children is a rewarding experience that brings me immense joy. Watching them grow in their early years, discover and imagine, and embrace their curiosity and playfulness is truly inspiring. Building nurturing relationships with them allows me to guide and support their development, and witnessing their progress and achievements fills my heart with pride and fulfillment.

Years of Experience: 23 Years  
Qualifications & Training: Certificate III and Diploma in early childhood education, First Aid and CPR, TCI, Health and Healing, In Safe Hands
What I would like children to learn from me: To embrace their uniqueness for it is through their individuality that the world finds its greatest treasures.
Why I love working with children:  Because I am a big child myself.

Years of Experience: 15 Years  
Qualifications & Training: Certificate III and Diploma in Early Childhood Education, Teacher’s Aid for both primary and secondary education
What I would like children to learn from me: I believe in the value of fairness and treating others with respect and equality. Additionally, I hope to impart life skills that will help them navigate the world as they grow, such as learning to self-regulate their emotions and make responsible decisions. By teaching these lessons, I aim to empower children to become confident, compassionate individuals who can positively impact the world around them.
Why I love working with children:  I enjoy seeing them grow and discovering who they are and how the world around them works.

Years of Experience:  First year in childcare  
Qualifications & Training: Currently studying Certificate III in Early Childhood Education
What I would like children to learn from me: To be free spirited and to always see the fun in things.
Why I love working with children:  The big smiles, cuddles and joy they bring. They bring out the soft and silly side of me and they always seem to match my craziness.

Years of Experience:  First year in childcare  
Qualifications & Training: Currently studying Certificate III in Early Childhood Education
What I would like children to learn from me: To be themselves, to know that they have a voice and have a right to be heard. To always have fun / be happy. I always say dance like no one's watching and sing like no one's listening. Seeing children happy makes me happy. Respect for each other, they can always feel safe around me.
Why I love working with children: I love watching them grow. Being a part of their early life journey is a privilege. Although I haven’t been in the industry long, I am excited to share my own journey. Working with children, learning and growing alongside them. If I can make a child happy and smile I know I’m doing my job.

Years of Experience:  3 months at small steps, with 14 years as a teacher aid, working for the last 10 years in prep.  
Qualifications & Training:  Certificate III in Education Support, certificate 3 in Horticulture.
What I would like children to learn from me: I hope to instill curiosity and respect of our natural environment. Becoming sustainably aware by reducing waste, recycling and reusing resources.
Why I love working with children:  Children are open-minded and willing to give everything a go. I enjoy having conversations about their interest and ideas. I feel privileged that I am able to be a part of influencing young people’s future goals and aspirations.

Years of Experience:  6 years in Kitchen
Qualifications & Training: Food safety certificate
What I would like children to learn from me:  I would like children to try new foods and learn to make healthier choices.
Why I love working with children: Seeing their faces light up when I deliver their foods. Seeing them enjoying eating together.

With four years of dedicated experience in early childhood education, I am passionate about fostering a nurturing and engaging environment where children can thrive. Currently pursuing my qualification in early childhood, I am committed to creating a space that emphasizes fun, creativity, and exploration.  

My philosophy is centered around the belief that every child deserves a voice. I advocate for young people's needs and interests, ensuring they feel valued and understood. I strive to inspire a love of learning through playful activities that spark imagination and curiosity.  

I look forward to partnering with families and supporting each child's unique journey as they discover the world around them.  

With nine years of experience in early childhood education and holding a Certificate III, I am deeply passionate about nurturing young minds. My approach is embedded in fostering respect—for themselves, for others, and for the environment. I believe that every child should have the opportunity to truly enjoy their childhood while learning valuable life skills.  

In my role, I strive to reignite creativity and imagination, allowing children to explore, play, and grow in a supportive environment. I am dedicated to facilitating their development and ensuring that each child feels valued and inspired to express themselves.  

I look forward to creating a positive impact on the lives of children and helping them flourish as they embark on their unique journeys.

With six years of experience in the early childhood sector and a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education, I am dedicated to creating a nurturing and joyful environment for children. My goal is to instill values of respect and love while ensuring that every child enjoys their time in my care.  

I believe that children thrive when they are happy, and their joy brings me immense fulfillment. I am committed to fostering a space where they can explore, learn, and grow, all while feeling safe and supported.  

I look forward to making a positive impact on the lives of children and watching them flourish as they embark on their unique journeys.

With 26 years of experience in the early childhood sector and a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education, I am deeply committed to nurturing the growth and development of young children. My mission is to create an environment where every child feels comfortable being their true selves, embracing their unique strengths and potential.  

I am passionate about advocating for children and ensuring that their voices are heard. It is a true blessing to be part of their journey during these formative years, guiding them as they explore the world around them. I believe that fostering a sense of belonging and confidence is key to their learning and development.  

I look forward to supporting each child as they flourish, helping them build a strong foundation for the future.  

With four years of experience in early childhood education and holding a Diploma in the field, I am dedicated to creating a nurturing and supportive environment for children. My goal is to empower children to develop self-help skills while ensuring they feel safe and valued in my care.  

I am passionate about watching children grow and thrive, and I believe that every small step they take makes a difference in the world. Being part of their journey is a privilege, and I strive to foster a love for learning that will last a lifetime.  

I look forward to guiding each child as they explore their potential and build a strong foundation for their future.

I have recently embarked on my journey in early childhood education and am currently studying for my qualification. My passion lies in creating a safe and supportive environment where children can learn to regulate their emotions, have fun, and feel secure in expressing themselves.  

I believe that children are the future, and it is vital to equip them with the tools they need to navigate their feelings and experiences. I am dedicated to being a safe space for them as they explore and grow, fostering both their emotional and social development.  

I look forward to making a positive impact on the lives of children and guiding them as they discover their unique strengths and potential.

Years of Experience: 2 and a half years' experience in early childhood education
Qualifications & Training:  Certificate III in early childhood education
What I would like children to learn from me:  I am a dedicated early childhood educator with over two years of hands-on experience working with children. I am CERT 3 certified and committed to creating a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where every child feels valued. I believe it is essential for children to learn how to respect one another and build meaningful friendships. Developing strong social skills and learning how to connect positively with peers are foundations that support lifelong success. I strive to guide children in building confidence, kindness, and healthy relationships.
Why I love working with children: I love working with children because I enjoy watching them grow into their own unique individuals. Seeing them come out of their shells, gain confidence, and embrace who they are is incredibly rewarding. Supporting their development and being part of their journey is what makes my work so meaningful.