Carrum Downs Early Learning Centre

Our Team

Leah, Centre Manager

I have been employed in the Early Years sector since 2007, with Carrum Downs Early Learning Centre being my first and only centre I have worked at. In this time I have completed my Certificate III and Diploma in Early Childhood Education.

Throughout my years, my roles have changed and I have grown as a person, gained knowledge and taken on more responsibilities. I believe that the environment we provide the children with can have a very positive impact towards their learning and development since we provide a lot of stimulating opportunities, and accommodate different learning styles.

As a Centre Manager I pride myself in creating a warm, safe and inviting atmosphere where all children, educators and families feel valued and connected. Over the years I have been in a position to mentor and support the Educators as they require assistance and guidance, and I am grateful for this opportunity to lead a purposeful and enthusiastic team.
Amanda, Assistant Centre Manager

I have had the pleasure of teaching, guiding and encouraging children to learn and develop since 2012 and have formed nurturing relationships with both the children in my care and their families. I have been lucky enough to work in the younger rooms at our centre and have had some of the best times watching the children I care for reach new milestones and develop new skills.

In 2019 I began the position as Second in Charge and have enjoyed learning all there is to know about the administrative side and legalities of the industry from an amazing and supportive management team. I enjoy being able to assist families and deal with the behind the scene work that goes into running a centre.

In 2020 I had my first daughter and in 2022 my second, I have loved the joys of motherhood and using all my knowledge and experience to raise strong, independent young girls.
Leanne, Nursery Room Leader

After having my own children I followed my passion of wanting to work with children and completed my certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care joining the centres team in 2017. I am now working towards completing my Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care .

I began my time at the Centre as a reliever, which provided me with the opportunity to become familiar with all rooms and staff. Since then I have been privileged to work in the Four year old Kinder room, being part of helping the children prepare for school, to where I am today, leading the Nursery. No matter which room I am in, I enjoy them all, being part of their learning and development and watching them meet milestones; from learning to roll or learning to write, is so rewarding.

As an educator I also enjoy getting to know the children and their families, helping create a bond between home and child care. I endeavour to work with families in the best interests of the child and with open communication. I believe all children have the right to feel safe, secure and supported and they require opportunities to engage, explore and experiment through play as they learn about the world around them.
Nadia, Nursery Educator

Hi, I'm Nadia. I have been an Early Childcare educator since 2015, diploma qualified.

During this time I have had the opportunity to work with all age groups as an assistant as well as a room leader. My passion to work in early childhood is watching children learn and develop whilst guiding them as an educator to set them up for the future ahead of them.

When I started at Carrum Downs ELC in 2022 I had the opportunity to be a reliever/ support educator. During this time it gave me the opportunity to get to know many children, families and educators across the centre and gain an understanding as to how each room runs. I have absolutely loved being an assistant in the Nursery this year as each day is a new challenge.

During my spare time I love going to the gym, cooking, camping and spending time with my daughter who keeps me busy the majority of the time.
Dylan, Nursery Educator

Hi, I am Dylan and I am new to Early Childhood having just begun studying my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and joining Carrum Downs Early Learning at the beginning of 2023 as a trainee.

It is only recently that I decided this is the path I want to take in my life and further more. I believe that the early stages are one of the most important things in a humans life. I made the choice because I enjoy seeing the smiles on children’s faces and helping them grow.

Knowing that I have a role in shaping who they become as people drives me each day and seeing how the children act, think and have different ways of communicating pushes me to learn more about Early Childhood education.
Rebecca, Pre-Toddler Room Leader

Hi, my name is Rebecca, but people call me Beck. I started working in early childhood in 2006 at small centre and enjoyed every minute of it. Then in 2010 I started my own family and have 2 beautiful daughters.

I've always had a passion for childcare so continued my studies in 2023 and start working at Carrum Downs Early Learning. Over the years I have gained a lot of experience and knowledge along the way. As an educator I believe building strong relationships with children and families and providing quality care.

What I love about working with children is watching them grow and reaching their new milestone through play-based learning. I take pride in creating a safe and nurturing environment.
Beth, Pre-Toddler Educator

I have been working at Carrum Downs Early Learning since 2021, in this time I have been able to form strong relationships with both the children I care for, and their families.

With working in the younger rooms it has been amazing being able to watch as each child grows and reaches new milestones in their development every day. I strongly believe all children deserve a safe, secure and welcoming environment where they are able to explore, ask questions, use their imaginations and form relationships of their own.
Michelle, Pre-Toddler Room Educator

Hi, I'm Michelle. I am currently studying my Certificate III. I started my journey in Early Childhood Education and Care at the end of 2023. After having my son in early 2021 I decided I needed a career change. From that first day after dropping him off at care, I knew that becoming an early childhood educator was what I wanted to do. Seeing how they nurtured and educated him made me want to also do this for other family's children.

It's my passion to not only keep children safe but I am also dedicated to nurturing the growth and development of young children.

I believe in the magic of play-based learning, where every giggle and block tower built becomes a stepping stone in a child's development.

I'm excited to connect with families and educators who share my passion for early childhood education
Monique, Toddler One Room Leader/ Health and Safety Rep

I have been apart of the Carrum Downs Early Learning team since 2013. During this time I have been an educator in various rooms including relief educator, assistant in pre-toddler, toddlers, and the 4 year old Kinder, then stepping into Room Leading in Pre-Toddlers and Toddlers, I have thoroughly enjoyed the challenges and opportunities each role has brought towards me and continues to bring.

I’ve always had a passion for children, mainly through the opportunity of caring for my younger siblings in my late teens/early adulthood and strengthened in 2021 when I became a mum, with these being my main inspiration to pursue and continue a career in childcare as an early childhood professional. I believe early childhood is a very important time in a child’s life as it provides great opportunities to learn and develop new skills that are beneficial in life. I am eager create lasting bonds with all of the children and families as I bring forward my passions for each child’s development and put this into practice including but not limited to; promoting self-help skills, sensory aspects, art experiences, and music.

In 2019 I accepted the opportunity to become the Health and Safety Representative of our centre, which entails me to work closely with all staff and management to uphold high safety standards and implement our policies and procedures into our everyday practices. This role has helped me guide educators in their own safety as well as the children’s.
Jemma, Toddler One Educator

Hello, my name is Jemma and I’ve been working in early childhood since 2021, and began working here at Carrum Downs Early Learning at the beginning of 2023 and I hold my diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care.

In my experience of working in childcare I have developed a passion for building relationships with the children and families. I like to help the children follow their interests, developing their initiative to investigate, explore and learn.
Amelia, Toddler One Educator

Hi, my name is Amelia and I proudly became I member of the team in 2023. I’m am currently working towards my Certificate 111 in Early Childhood Education and have enjoyed working with the younger years.

I have always wanted to work with children as I believe it is such an important job and an incredible opportunity to help children reach their milestones. I have a great passion for art and inspire to help children express themselves through their creativity.

I believe in creating an environment where children feel safe to explore their interests as they develop, as well as an environment that is fun and exciting.
Leslie, Toddler Two Room Leader

I am a diploma qualified in early childhood, and I have worked at Carrum Downs since 2019.

Throughout the years, I’ve acquired knowledge with ongoing support from my colleagues to give the best care practice towards children while educating little minds to achieve developmental milestones.

Seeing their growth and development makes me passionate about my profession, and why I crave to provide play-based learning opportunities. Learning through play is one of the best opportunities for children to discover, create and imagine. Play contributes to a supportive environment where children can use social cues through verbal and non-verbal communication when interacting and engaging in parallel and associative play to support critical thinking while building positive and trusting relationships with educators.
Brooke, Toddler Two Educator

Hi, I am Brooke. I have been working in the childcare industry for since 2016 and am thrilled to be part of the Toddler 2 team. I have always been passionate about working with children and this only increased when having my own beautiful girls.

I love to create a safe, fun and inviting environment for children to thrive in. It is such a joy to see children hit their milestones and enjoy coming to their home away from home to see their friends and educators.

I have begun studying my Diploma in Early Childhood and cannot wait to see how this broadens my knowledge.
Rita, Toddler Two Educator

I have been working at Carrum Downs Early Learning since 2017 as an educator across different role in different rooms.

Currently my role is a reliever which I am thoroughly enjoying as I am able to spend time with all the children throughout the centre. Over my time I have established a positive relationship with the children and their families and I have had the great joy of observing the children’s development from the babies in the Nursery through to 4 and 5 year olds in the Kinder room.

Having brought up 3 of my own children and watching them develop into young adults, the opportunity to work in the early years has enabled me to turn my passion into a rewarding and fulfilling career. I feel very proud to be part of a team where we can work together and provide a special learning environment where children can reach goals and let their personalities shine.
Sophie, 3 Year Old Kindergarten Educator

Hello, my name is Sophie, I began my Early Childhood journey in 2017 and I am a passionate and dedicated childcare educator in nurturing and guiding young minds.

I have been welcomed by all members of Carrum Downs Early Learning Centre in 2024 and feel proud to call this my place of work. My journey in early childhood education is driven by my enthusiasm for creativity and my dedication to promoting mental well-being. I believe that every child has the potential to grow through nurturing settings, I strive to create an environment where they feel safe, valued, and inspired.

Throughout my career I have gained valuable knowledge which allows me to embed the best quality of teaching and assist children in their development. During these years I have had the opportunity to take on roles such as, sustainability officer, room assistant, room leader, and child safe advocate officer. One of my greatest joys is connecting with children and their families. I believe that open communication and strong relationships are key to effective education, and I always make time for meaningful conversations.

Currently, I am furthering my education by pursuing a Bachelor of Education, this will enhance my skills and knowledge, enabling me to provide the highest quality care and education.
Annette, 3 Year Old Kindergarten Educator

I am a passionate and dedicated early childhood educator who joined Carrum Downs Early Learning in 2023 and I am currently pursuing my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education.

My experience of working in childcare for a number of years and raising three boys who have grown into fine young men has inspired me to help other children get the best possible start to their education and care. I enjoy working with children of all ages, from babies to toddlers to kinder-age children, and take great pride in nurturing their development.

I believe that every child has unique attributes and talents, and I strive to bring out the best in each child I work with. Whether it's through funny conversations, imaginative play, or getting messy with arts and crafts, I will always find creative ways to engage and inspire the children in our care and I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of the children.
Britney, 3 Year Old Kindergarten Educator

I have been a Early Childcare Educator since 2020. Looking after my nephew for his early years is the reason I work in childcare, he showed me a different type of love and care and made me passionate about a child’s growth and development.

I take pride in creating a home away from home for the children and building a safe and nurturing environment. Assisting children with achieving their milestones will lead them into becoming confident and independent individuals.

It’s an honour to be part of a Centre that provides every child with a fun, loving, safe and supported learning environment. The supportive nature of the Centre has also lead to me studying my Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care which will push me to grow further as an educator.
Lucinda, 4 Year-Old Early Childhood Teacher (ECT)

Hi, my name is Lucinda but everyone calls me Lucy. I hold my Bachelor in Early Childhood Education and my Masters in Specialist Inclusive Education. I am very passionate about the education of young children and facilitating for their future education.

I believe in creating learning environments for all children inclusive of their learning skills and ability. I am always trying to find new and innovative ways to extend on my existing knowledge on children and my teaching practice. I am a massive football fan following Collingwood and enjoy attending the games on the weekend. In my spare time I love to cook and be creative in an array of ways, I then bring my creativity into my classroom though encouraging children to learn about cooking and how to make the foods they eat.

I am very passionate about the outdoors and believe in utilising the outdoor environment any chance I can, even in the winter when it is raining.
David, 4 Year Old Kindergarten Educator

I have held my Diploma of Early Childhood since 2014 and have been fortunate enough to hone my skills at a variety of centres.

I enjoy the uniqueness of each day and understand that no two days will be the same so my approach to each child also changes to meet the needs of the day.

I have enjoyed becoming a part of the team here at Carrum Downs Early Learning Centre since the beginning of 2024.
Aisha, 4 Year Old Kindergarten Educator

I have worked in Early Childhood since 2007, with Carrum Downs being the only centre I've worked at.

I completed both my Certificate III and Diploma of Early Childhood and I have worked in every room within our centre, being a reliever and also a room assistant.

In 2017, I became a mum to a beautiful little girl, and my years of experience have given me confidence, which has contributed to raising my daughter. I believe each child in our care should feel safe, secure, and cared for whilst also feeling a sense of belonging. Most importantly, the educator’s role is to help teach children new skills that will help equip them with the knowledge they will need as they grow.

Children learn through trial and error and they also learn through play. Watching the children be proud of the accomplishments they have achieved makes coming to work worth it. It makes me proud to see how happy the children are and see the friendships they form throughout their time at Carrum Downs ELC.
Zakia , 4 Year Old Kindergarten Educator

I have always had a passion for working with children and helping them grow to their full potential.

I have been working with children since 2015 when I started running my own family day care. I then transitioned into agency work, where I had the opportunity to work at various centres before taking on a permanent role at Carrum Downs Early Learning.

Working with children brings me great joy and satisfaction, and I always strive to support them and their families in any way I can aiming to create meaningful connections with the children I work with, whether it's through singing, art, or simply playing and having fun. I strongly believe in providing a nurturing and supportive environment where children can feel safe and empowered to explore and learn. It brings me great satisfaction to be a part of their journey and to help them develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed in life.

Support Staff

Patrisha, Educational Leader

Hi, my name is Patrisha, but I go by Trish.

I hold my Diploma in Early Childhood Education and have had the pleasure of joining Carrum Downs Early Learning centre as the Educational Leader.

My role is to work with the amazing staff to provide programming direction and guidance.

I found my path into early learning from the jot it brings me seeing the children grow and learn.

My favourite part of the day is walking into a classroom and having my name called followed by a welcome hug.

In my role I am able to build relationships with the children across the centre and assist the educators with amazing learning environments.
Charmion, Support Educator

Hi, my name is Charmion, and I’ve always had a passion for working with children and helping them grow to their full potential.

Leaving my corporate job in 2014 was a pivotal decision—I traded spreadsheets for storybooks because I knew teaching and guiding young kids was the profession I truly wanted to pursue. As a mother and an educator, this passion has been the driving force in my life.

Working with children brings me immense joy and satisfaction, even on the days when I end up with more paint on my clothes than on the paper. I strive to create meaningful connections with the children I work with, whether through singing (with questionable pitch), or simply playing and having fun. I strongly believe in providing a nurturing and supportive environment where children can feel safe and empowered to explore and learn, it brings me great satisfaction.

In addition to my work with children, I have a keen interest in psychology, which helps me better understand and support the young minds I work with. I also enjoy making cakes and have secret recipes that only I know—yes, my cakes are so good, they’re classified! These hobbies allow me to bring creativity and joy into both my personal and professional life.
Jess, Early Childhood Teacher (ECT)

I have been working in Early Childhood since 2012 and have obtained my Bachelor of Early Childhood Education. I believe it is important to build positive relationships with both children and families to give the best care possible to the children. I believe that through interactions educators understand children’s likes and interests that help them feel safe, secure and supported.

The early childhood years are important as this is when children begin their learning journey. There are so many proud moments in watching them reach milestones, goals and learning new skills. I believe in offering positive and inviting indoor and outdoor play spaces to extend children’s interests.

In 2020 I became a mum to a little girl and then in 2024 a little boy. This has given me an entirely different perspective and has assisted me even more so to become an even better educator. Ensuring that I am giving the absolute best care I can for the children and providing them the best start in the early years as all children should have. Assisting the children with learning a variety of skills and being their support person while in my care.
Nicole, Support Educator

Hi, my name is Nicole and I have been a part of the Centre’s team since 2021. I am a Diploma qualified educator and this year I am working with the children in the four year old Kinder room.

I am passionate in what I do as an early childhood educator and love watching the children learn and grow. I am strong on building trusting and respectful relationships with the children and families from the very beginning as us as staff can more easily respond to children’s needs by understanding their relationship with their families.

I absolutely love contributing to the children’s learning by implementing meaningful experiences extending on their interests and developmental needs. I believe children needs lots of physical activity throughout the day, running an indoor outdoor program for the children to choose their environments.
Shelly, Support Educator

Bio to come...
Josie, Support Educator

Hi my name is Josie and I am of Italian decent and love cooking. I previously worked at Carrum Downs Early Learning for 10 years as the centre cook and had some time off to be with family.

I have now returned in 2023 and have enjoyed seeing some familiar faces from the families and children. I have been in the childcare industry for over 30 years and have my Diploma, Food Supervisor Certificate and Food Handling Certificate.

I am a mum to two lovely children who have given me two beautiful grandchildren, with more on the way; I love greeting all the children and families so please come and say hello as I love also meeting all families.

I believe all children are individual beings and are gifted in their own ways. Children need structure, security and love and believe I can offer this by providing different experiences and ideas to the rooms. These children are our future, and their young years of life sets their personalities. I believe the children should be taught and shown respect and kindness as their minds are growing so quickly and learn so fast.
Ami, Centre Cook

I have been with the team at Carrum Downs Early Learning since 2020 and as a childcare educator, I have devoted my life to the learning and growth of children. I am currently studying my Diploma of Early Childhood and learning the best ways to stimulate and nurture the minds of young learners; I am immensely passionate about my work.

Above all else, I value the importance of compassion and communication with the families of the children in my care. I believe that a strong partnership between educators and families is one of the most effective ways to support children’s progress and development. Over the course of my career, I have had the opportunity to work with countless families from all walks of life. Through these experiences, I have developed a deep understanding of the unique needs of each child and family, and I strive to provide personalised care and attention to all.

I seek to foster a love of learning and exploration for children. I utilise a variety of teaching methods and incorporate engaging activities to keep the children interested and motivated. I also value the importance of play-based learning and provide ample opportunities for children to engage in imaginative and sensory play. Ultimately, my goal as a childcare educator is to provide a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for children to learn and grow in. I am grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of the children and families that I work with.

Throughout my career in childcare, I have had a range of experiences within the kitchen and have a passion for nutrition and cooking wholesome food that fullfills children's needs as well as exposing them to a variety of different cuisines from around the world. As I continue to engage with children through the kitchen, I look forward to teaching the children to cook and have fun with food whilst they get to enjoy learning and developing.
Saffron, Kitchen assistant

I have been working in the food sector since 2012 and since 2023 I have been a part of the team at Carrum Downs Early Learning, working in the centre's kitchen.

Working in the kitchen has been an absolute joy and my goal is to help create healthy nutritious well-balanced meals using fresh ingredients that are not only tasty but encourage the children to try new flavours and textures in fun and creative ways.

Having been warmly welcome by the staff and children I look forward to getting to know everyone better throughout the year
Courtney, Toddler Two Educator- Parental Leave

Hi I’m Courtney, I am a diploma qualified Educator and have worked in the early childhood sector since 2010. During this time I have held many different roles in the sector including Assistant Educator, Room Leading across all age groups, supporting pedagogy and practice as Educational leader, 2IC and then becoming a Centre Director for a larger company. In 2023 I joined the team at Carrum downs Early learning and have thoroughly enjoyed supporting all rooms throughout the service.

I believe that building strong trusting relationships with both children and families through open and honest communication is key in supporting every child’s learning and development. Further to this I believe that all children are curious and capable learners and by fostering a love for learning and providing individualised guidance and support through strong trusting relationships, stimulating environments and open ended and inclusive learning opportunities, they can become confident in their abilities and achieve great things.

I look forward to getting to know you and your family better and working alongside you to best support your child on their learning journey!