Carla Adams, Author at ��ר��

Happy Workiversary Miss Tina and Miss Adriana

Carla Adams — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:29:39 +0000

Among our many talented and valued Affinity-ites around Australia, April includes the Affinity Workiversaries of two wonderful early childhood educators and leaders in our sector. We would like to take the opportunity to recognise the work, dedication and passion of Tina, our Centre Manager at Milestones Early Learning Everton Park, who is celebrating 15 years, and Adriana, our Affinity Area Manager who is celebrating 18 years!��

Miss Adriana

Miss Tina (R) with our Area Manager Kathy

We asked Tina and Adriana to share with us their stories.

What motivated you to work in early education originally?��

Tina: After returning to Australia after being a nanny overseas I knew I wanted to continue working with children as I enjoyed being able to help provide a solid foundation for them as they developed and grew.

Adriana: I really liked children and knew I wanted to make a difference in their lives. From the age of 10 onwards, I was continually babysitting. A friend had twins and I couldn’t stay away! That was the start of my love for children, and career in early childhood education.

What’s the most important thing a child has ever taught you?

Tina: To be fully in the moment, laugh, have fun and enjoy the simple moments.

Adriana: Patience

How and�� why did you progress from being an educator, to a leader?��

Tina: I worked my way through the ranks, studied my certificate III then diploma before taking on an ACM, then CM role. I really enjoyed having input on the direction the centre was taking and truly believe the culture you create in the centre dictates how successful you will be.

Adriana: I always wanted to lead and be in a position to make change – I aspire to being a compassionate and available leader. I progressed through the qualifications available to our sector at the time, and then ��ר�� acquired the centre I worked for back around 2015, and from there, I was provided with so much leadership and support to step into management roles, eventually becoming the Area Manager here in Townsville.

What are the greatest challenges early childhood educators face today, and how can larger companies like ��ר�� support them best?��

Tina: Burnout is the biggest thing, it’s so important to work as team, and for us as Centre Managers, knowing the signs and supporting each other. Affinity are already supporting their educators with access to our EAP, and a culture of support.

Adriana: It’s easy to miss the potential for the difference we can make – the biggest thing Affinity can support us with is supporting positive interactions with children – getting back to basics, how to set up activities, how to create environments.

What are the greatest rewards from working in early childhood education?��

Tina: The relationships built with the children and families, being a part of their villages and offering guidance and support.

Adriana: Inspiring others to be great leaders, to see people progress.

Which of the Affinity Values do you align with the most and why? How do you demonstrate and enable this in your own teams?��

Tina: Living the Team Spirit- there is no one person who is more important than anyone else on our team, our centre is based on mutual respect and working together to highlight each individuals strengths.

Adriana: Being Completely Connected – I am always at the end of the phone and I have my team’s back.

Finish this sentence: At the end of every day, I hope I have....��

Tina: Made a difference, even just a tiny one to the lives of our families and children.

Adriana: Made someone smile!

Sum up your job in 3 words?

Tina: Rewarding, Fun, Engaging.

Adriana: Challenging, Inspiring & Fun!

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��ר�� Launches Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)

Carla Adams — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 02:12:56 +0000

After more than two years of collaboration and planning, ��ר�� has launched our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) reflecting a national community commitment.��

The plan’s launch took place in Brisbane on Turrbal and Yuggera land on 3rd April 2025 and was acknowledged nationally across all early childhood education centres operated by Affinity on Monday 7th April.��

In partnership with , who provide Affinity’s indigenous early childhood education��program��and educator training as part of the group’s Lifelong Learning Curriculum, executives and members of the Affinity Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group met together for a smoking ceremony attended by Aboriginal Elder, Uncle Les McLeod from Dharug, Yuin and Ngarigo nations. ��

Supporting Uncle Les was Ms Gabby Collins, proud Aboriginal Lady from the Biripi tribe of Port Macquarie, NSW, and Ms Sophie Campbell, proud Aboriginal Lady from both Wiradjuri & Yuin nations of NSW. ��

Brian Cook, founder of Wandana Aboriginal Education spoke at the launch, sharing the Wandana team’s feelings of ‘being compelled and inspired to move towards a higher level of vibration and spiritual awareness and connection to each other, and our ancestors of the past.’��

“We strive everyday towards a deeper and more authentic connection to oneself, our Elders and community. With a kind heart, gentle steps, clear intention and an open mind, together we can resonate with our Elders, evolve into higher states of consciousness and inspire those around us,” Brian said.��

Dr Lesley Jones at ��ר�� said the RAP published by Reconciliation Australia reflected ‘many years of walking together towards this point as a national community of early childhood educators, teachers, managers and specialists who together are committed to the vision of reconciliation.’��

Melanie Nour, who is co-chair of��the Reconciliation Action Plan working group at ��ר�� Group said "Publishing our first Reconciliation Action Plan is a significant and meaningful milestone for ��ר��. As a national early childhood education provider, we recognise the powerful role we play in shaping inclusive and respectful learning environments from the earliest years of life.”��

“The Early Years Learning Framework reminds us that ‘children are connected with and contribute to their world’ – and we hold a responsibility to ensure every child sees their identity, culture and community reflected and respected in the learning environment.��

“Through our commitment to the Child Safe Standards, we recognise that cultural safety is not optional – it is essential. This RAP marks the beginning of deeper accountability, deeper listening, and a long-term commitment to truth telling, cultural safety and equity across all our services,” Ms Nour said.��

Many centres across the Affinity's community already have centre based RAPs and will continue to receive support to develop their own during 2025 and beyond. Further engagement planned post-launch of Affinity’s RAP will include a national audit of centres current RAP status and future planning. ��

“Reconciliation to us means ongoing reflection – on our actions, our thoughts, our behaviours and our practices. It involves acknowledging the injustices of the past, listening deeply, and walking forward in solidarity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples towards a shared future,” Dr Lesley Jones, ��ר��.��

Reconciliation Australia has published the ��ר�� RAP .��

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Early Indicators of Success at Primary School Now Possible at ��ר�� Centres

Carla Adams — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 23:00:00 +0000

The parents of more than 15,000 children between the ages of three and five years have been provided Australia-first access to data showing early indicators of success at Primary School and beyond.��

In the third year of a partnership between ��ר�� and the University of Wollongong, the is already mid-way through Semester 1 testing at more than 250 early education centres owned and operated by Affinity.��

Head of Education Jola Sung says early indications are even more positive than 2024 results, shown by the results from over 7300 children who are in the EYT program for 2025.��

“Affinity's Early Childhood Teachers have really embraced this opportunity to incorporate the Early Years Toolbox as one of many meaningful ways we use to assess children’s learning, in areas that are shown to be predictive of later academic, social, emotional, cognitive and life outcomes,” Jola said.��

All centres owned and operated by ��ר�� have been provided with technology, training and fully funded access to the EYT, which offers children guided access to digital games that capture meaningful, developmentally sensitive data based on children’s engagement, and then tracks their improvement in key areas as they continue to play.��

“The benefits our teachers see is that the EYT is aligned with international frameworks and curricula, and has now become recognised as part of our Lifelong Learning Curriculum which we believe is Australia’s most advanced approach to early years education,” Jola explained.��

Sunshine Coast Early Childhood Teacher Riley O’Neill commenced using the EYT with Kindergarten students in 2024, and has picked back up again in 2025.��

“Engaging the children is not a big challenge as the games are designed specifically to attract their curiosity. We only use each game for between 5-8 minutes per child, and that is plenty of time to capture data around their current skills and abilities,” he explained.��

“Our families have absolutely embraced the chance to see a snapshot of their child’s abilities and skills in key areas. It is such a valuable addition to our Kindergarten offering,” he said.��

Professor Steven Howard, from the School of Education at the University of Wollongong, said data collected between 2023-2024 showed children attending Affinity centres are achieving higher results in phonological working memory, expressive vocabulary and early numeracy than peers their age who also completed the EYT assessments.��

“We’re so pleased to see the EYT being made available to so many thousands of Australian children through Affinity,” he said.��

“Working memory and impulse control are two particularly areas critical for children to develop before they start school, and we will be keeping a close eye on improvements in those areas for children in 2025,” Prof Howard said.��

Early Years Toolbox assessments are provided free of charge as part of the Lifelong Learning Curriculum School Readiness program, for enrolled children aged 3-5 years at ��ר�� centres around Australia.

To enquire or find a centre near you, click here.

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��ר�� Centres Celebrate Team Spirit after ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred��

Carla Adams — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 00:50:14 +0000

Our Affinity Team Spirit is high with almost 60 Queensland and Northern New South Wales early education centres celebrating reopening after temporary closures related to ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.��

Highly anticipated to be one of the most significant weather events in early 2025, Cyclone Alfred prompted watches, warnings and evacuations in South East Queensland, and Northern New South Wales, an area which has rarely seen direct impacts from tropical cyclones. It eventually affected the coast as a weaker system, becoming a tropical low shortly before making landfall on 8 March; nevertheless, its rainfall brought severe flooding to the region.1��

"The safety and wellbeing of children and our teams is our number one priority, which is why we acted cautiously and closed centres temporarily as weather conditions worsened, and Government warnings became more urgent,” explained COO Nishad Alani.��

“It is never ideal to close a centre but we’re thrilled to see them successfully reopening with relatively minimal damage and impact across the majority of centres,” he said.��

Affinity Team at Milestones Early Learning Hillcrest

Affinity's Crisis Response Team held daily briefings during the intense weather events between 7-12 March to confirm the status of each centre, keep teams and families updated and plan to reopen as quickly as possible.��

During the temporary centre closures, employees were provided with wellbeing checks and access to Affinity’s EAP.��

As soon as it was safe to return to the centres, our teams were on site supporting simple clean up works. Affinity has engaged contractors to assess and resolve major external clean ups and any internal repairs required.��

“The major impact for our team were the power outages, which unfortunately resulted in food spoilage, along with general clean up works required from the heavy rain,” explained Centre Manager Sarah.��

Affinity Team at Milestones Early Learning Coomera – Amity Road

“My team smashed it and the centre is absolutely sparkling ready for families – go team Amity – I'm super proud of everyone!”��

“My team were all safe and well, we had some serious fun while we cleaned up and unpacked new stock – and we’re really ready to welcome families and children back!” said Kylie, Centre Manager at Kids Academy Darra.��

Kids Academy Early Learning Darra

“At Milestones Early Learning Brookside, teams sorted, cleaned and laughed as they prepared to reopen,” said Centre Manager Wendy.��

Team Affinity at Milestones Early Learning Brookside in action

Up on the Sunshine Coast, the team at Milestones Early Learning Peregian kept their spirits high as they navigated heavy rains and road closures to ensure their centre was safe, operational and full of smiles for returning families.��

“Affinity’s Crisis Response Team and especially our Area Manager and Operations Managers could not have been more supportive through these unexpected last few days, and as a new Centre Manager with Affinity, I could not be more grateful,” said Centre Manager Heather at Milestones Early Learning Sunshine Beach.��

While we regret any inconvenience caused to our families, we are excited to be again open for fun and learning!��

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Acknowledging International Women’s Day 2025 at ��ר��

Carla Adams — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 02:52:59 +0000

As we acknowledge International Women’s Day at Affinity Education Group, we have invited reflections and perspectives on two pledges that resonated with our community from this year’s international #AccelerateAction campaign.��

For Affinity Chief Financial Officer & Company Secretary Cathy Montesin, being gender blind is both a personal philosophy and practical approach to making women more visible in the workplace.��

“A merit-based approach naturally leads to high performing women or men being recognised,” Cathy explains. “Regardless of gender, if a person working within our company is getting results, and it’s obvious they are stretching themselves to meet company goals – they have our vote and backing all the way.”��

Affinity CEO Tim Hickey recognising Cathy Montesin at the 2024 Affinity Conference

“Obviously pay parity is an issue all companies need to continue to address. With 97% of employees identifying as women here at Affinity, we continue to look for ways to address any pay gap in roles held by both men and women within the company.”��

Responding to the topic of forging positive visibility for women, Cathy says companies “benefit immensely when women are afforded the same opportunities as men – at Affinity I’m really proud of how we are achieving that at the centre level as well as here in our Centre Support Office in Brisbane.”��

Newly appointed in November 2024 as Affinity’s first female Head of Technology, Dee Dharamsey��joined Affinity as an IT Service Delivery Manager, having previously served as an Account Manager overseeing IT operations through an outsourced solutions firm, and then within just a few months, she advanced to the position of Head of Technology.��

Affinity Head of Technology Dee Dharamsey is thriving at Affinity

“Having worked with Cathy for many years, I experienced firsthand her ability to foster strong leadership and professional growth. When transitioning into the Head of Technology role, she provided unwavering support, making the process seamless and instilling confidence in my abilities. Her mentorship, development opportunities, and guidance have been invaluable, enabling me to grow into my best self in this exciting and rewarding role,” Dee said.��

Cathy defines Dee’s appointment as an ideal example of gender-blind promotion. “Dee wasn’t promoted to become our first female Head of Technology – she��had the skillset, work ethic and understanding of Affinity that made her the right person for the role, and she’s doing brilliantly,” explains Cathy.��

Leading Affinity’s 75% female IT team, Dee also considers gender ‘irrelevant compared to ability and a strong commitment to achieving results’.��

“Forging positive visibility for women starts with an assumption that the women in a company are worth listening to,” says Dee.��

“Since joining Affinity, I have been inspired by a culture where every voice—regardless of gender—is valued and heard. Unlike my experiences in previous companies, where women were often dismissed, Affinity fosters an environment of inclusivity and respect, making it a truly motivating place to grow and contribute,” she said.��

Another emerging leader at Affinity, Brittany Sandeman, recently stepped up to manage the company’s Regulatory Compliance Team as Regulatory Compliance Manager. A lawyer with more than five-years experience, Brittany reports to Affinity’s Chief Compliance and Quality Officer Dr Lesley Jones.��

“The big thing at Affinity is we have a lot of women leaders but it’s not tokenistic,” explains Brittany.��

“They are the right and respected people for the jobs they are doing, and so their contribution is valued for what they bring to the company, not on whether they are male or female,” she said.��

“Progressing from more traditional law firm environments and their views on leadership, to a company with an open and affirmative leadership culture has been incredibly rewarding for me, and I am so proud to be leading my own team now, celebrating their achievements and seeing them engage with all stakeholders at the front of issues with relevant and valued information and insights.”��

Affinity Area Manager Chloe Grech has worked in the early education sector since leaving school – progressing from trainee to educator and then to centre management roles.��

“From my perspective, even in a women-dominated industry like ours, the culture and recognition given as people achieve career milestones and go outside their comfort zone is what really matters,” says Chloe.��

“I was really proud of my achievements in previous centre based roles, but a group of people at Affinity all backed me to step up to��Area Manager, overseeing a group of centres to improve quality and business outcomes, and I’m loving growing into the role,” she said.��

Chloe celebrating with her team in her first role as Area Manager for Affinity.

“From my perspective celebrating women’s achievements is about giving women that chance – we just need to be given a chance – we have so much career progression here at Affinity, and as long as we keep doing that and recognise people’s talents we will do so well as a company.”��

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Celebrating the Journey to Exceeding at Kids Academy Glenmore Park��

Carla Adams — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 06:51:46 +0000

Kids Academy Glenmore Park are celebrating their progress from Meeting to Exceeding the National Quality Standards.��

Having been part of the Glenmore Park community for more than 25 years in New South Wales, has a long-term reputation for delivering high quality early education and care.��

Centre Manager Jessie and her team recently received notice of an ‘Exceeding’ rating following Assessment and Rating by in four of the seven .��

1 – Educational program and practice��

4 – Staffing arrangements��

5 – Relationships with children��

7 – Governance and Leadership��

The achievement is a wonderful milestone for a team who always put children and families first.��

Affinity’s Acting National Quality Manager Mel Nour said:��

“At Kids Academy Glenmore Park, the commitment to quality and compliance is truly outstanding. The team has cultivated a deep understanding of their dynamics and individual strengths, strategically harnessing them into champion roles that empower everyone to excel and drive continuous improvement.”��

“The sense of teamwork within the centre is inspiring, built on strong morale and meaningful connections – not just among the educators but also with the children, their families, and the wider Glenmore Park community. This tight-knit bond fosters an environment that is both supportive and inclusive.”��

Centre Manager Jessie and her dedicated team are relentless in their pursuit of excellence. “We proactively engage in Quality Support Sessions and Quality Assessment visits, embracing feedback and translating it into action. By embedding reflective practices into daily operations, we ensure continuous progress that is both sustainable and evolving.��

Affinity Operations Manager Olga Klaassen congratulated the team.��

“What truly sets this team apart is how they embody the Affinity values in everything they do,” Olga said.

“Their culture of connection, dedication, and pride in their shared mission has been the driving force behind their success. Their unwavering passion and commitment have rightfully earned them an ‘Exceeding’ rating under the National Quality Standards.”��

The Exceeding Rating achievement reflects the team’s strong focus on building respectful and meaningful relationships with children and families, as well as delivering an educational program that is responsive, engaging, and tailored to support every child’s learning journey. ��

Their success is a testament to the shared commitment of��educators and staff to delivering the highest quality early education.��

Congratulations to the entire team at Kids Academy Glenmore Park – your hard work and dedication continue to make a lasting impact!��

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Potential, Realised: Best Centre Manager Bree White��

Carla Adams — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 05:41:15 +0000

“Early Education is my core value and most important motivation.”��

Being announced as ��ר��’s Best Centre Manager late in 2024 came as a genuine surprise for Bree White, Centre Manager at Milestones Early Learning Emerald Beach, which operates on Gumbaynggirr Country land.��

“There are so many amazing Centre Managers within Affinity, I was surprised to be nominated as the State Finalist. To be announced as the National Winner in the Best Centre Manager category was just amazing – I am very proud of our centre and team,” Bree said.��

Bree’s recognition and win in the annual Affinity Awards, which were announced by CEO Tim Hickey in December 2024, was based on multiple judging elements including her centre’s record of Quality, Safety & Compliance, Educational Outcomes for children and business operation.��

“Bree is an outstanding and highly regarded Affinity Centre Manager. Bree has an incredible reputation for running a high-quality centre with a long waiting list from local families. Although she is a quiet achiever, we were very proud to see Affinity announce her as the Best Centre Manager nationally,” said NSW State Manager Tori Robinson.��

Celebrating with the team during their Preschool Graduation day

A proud Coffs Harbour local, Bree’s 20-year career in early education commenced in Melbourne as an after-school junior.��

“There were so few policies and procedures back then, but I loved it straight away and have stayed in the sector ever since,” Bree said.��

After a ‘spontaneous move’ to the warmer weather of Noosa, Bree completed her Diploma and then managed to qualify as an Early Childhood Teacher in 2013 while working full time as a preschool teacher in Inverell.��

��For family and lifestyle relocated to Coffs Harbour in 2014, Bree was working for a private childcare provider when ��ר�� acquired her Emerald Beach based centre in 2021.��

“Working for a provider as large as Affinity was not something I expected but the benefits for our centre and for my own career have been amazing,” said Bree.��

“I was trained in new systems that helped me run my centre in a much more professional way, and given access to dedicated people to support our Quality and Early Education goals. Affinity’s Operations Manager and State Manager are incredible women who I admire and who take the time to visit and support me in our centre.”��

“Since joining Affinity two of my team have worked their way up from traineeships with fully funded qualifications provided by the Affinity Learning Academy, and our Assistant Centre Manager Abby is also benefitting from a scholarship to complete her Early Childhood Teaching studies at university, all at no cost to her.”��

Bree says her passion for mentoring and leadership has been fostered by Affinity, and during 2025, she has accepted a temporary career progression step to Area Manager, supporting her sister centres Milestones Early Learning North Boambee, Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga and South Grafton.��

“It’s the people in our centres who inspire me – early childhood education is my core value and my motivation every day – with Affinity behind us we know we are able to support children to set them up with positive education and skills for to last them a lifetime.”��

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��ר�� Goes Above and Beyond 250 in 2025

Carla Adams — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 02:26:01 +0000

��ר�� is celebrating a new milestone – operating more than 250 centres around Australia as the group commences 2025. ��

The milestone follows the acquisition of sixteen centres and opening of an additional newly built centre late in December, investments which will support over 1,300 additional places in locations where early education and childcare is in high demand.��

CEO Tim Hickey said the expansion provided additional economic, social, and educational benefits for Australian families seeking quality care and career opportunities to more than than 500 employees who have been welcomed into the company. ��

"It’s exciting to start 2025 reaching a new milestone – providing access to childcare and early education at more than 250 centres around Australia,” Mr Hickey said.��

"Our promise at Affinity is Potential, Realised, and we're quickly identifying the talents, experience and passion of our newest employees, while getting to know our newest enrolled children and families,” he said.��

“We will ensure every one of these newly acquired or built centres is set up to offer children our Lifelong Learning Curriculum, and for our employees – multiple funded training options and career pathways in a company that celebrates and recognises our people.”��

On the New South Wales Central Coast, thirteen centres previously owned by the Pilot Group and located between Port Macquarie and Kincumber were acquired by Affinity, comprising well-known centres including:��

Bangalay Child Care & Education Centre��
Bright Beginnings Children’s Centre��
The Beach Early Learning Centre Erina��
Little Beginnings Fernhill Road��
Little Beginnings at Hillsborough Road��
The Beach Early Learning Centre Kincumber��
Little Beginnings at Kolodong��
Little Flippers Kindergarten��
Little Beginnings at Maryville��
Port Eco Kids Village��
The Beach Early Learning Centre Tuggerah��
Little Beginnings at Warners Bay��
The Beach Early Learning Centre Wyong��

In Victoria, three centres previously owned by Nino Early Learning in Craigieburn and Point Cook were acquired which have been rebranded.��

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Also in Victoria, Affinity’s latest greenfield development - - received Department approval to open late in December and is already welcoming new families.��

New to Affinity after more than 20 years working in the sector, Centre Manager Katherine Fawcett has been the much loved and loyal manager of the team at Little Flippers Taree for 15 years.��

“We’ve been supported from day one by some incredible people from Affinity, and I’ve noticed that our needs and feedback are responded to quickly which is building our confidence that we’ve joined a great company,” Katherine said.��

“I’m also really impressed by the systems Affinity uses to support us in our roles, along with the multiple departments in the Centre Support Office – there is definitely a big load being taken off my plate of responsibilities,” she said.��

The December 2024 growth at ��ר�� follows two Queensland-based acquisitions which took place earlier in the year, Kidi Kingdom Hillcrest and Leading Edge Kallangur.

As of January 2025, ��ר�� owns and operates 255 centres with a further three centres under construction, which places the company as Australia’s third largest provider of early education and childcare.

The Affinity Safety Commitment has been welcomed by new teams.

Alignment with Affinity’s Values including Living The Team Spirit and Going Above and Beyond has been easy for Katherine’s team. ��

“I absolutely love the value of Creating Shining Stars and the way Affinity encourages us to recognise our team regularly for the important work they do, we are feeling very culturally aligned which is important,” she said.��

Affinity’s Values and Recognition rituals are being embraced by the new teams.

The teams are quickly becoming part of Affinity’s national community.

“Working side by side with Affinity’s Integration and Support Team has been incredible – such great people, creating such a framework of support for us.��

At The Beach Early Learning Tuggerah, Affinity’s new leadership team Kelly Gray and Holly Gaffey have extensive experience in the early childhood industry, working across several different service types.��

During the past six years The Beach Tuggerah, the pair have harnessed their holistic pedagogy towards creating safe, caring, and inclusive learning environments.��

“The rollover to ��ר�� has been a big learning experience, and we are continuing to learn the Affinity Way,” said Centre Manager Kelly.��

“We have many shining stars within our centre and look forward to seeing these wonderful educators thrive working for Affinity. ��

Affinity’s company value of Having Serious Fun resonates loud and clear with this team and for Assistant Centre Manager Holly Gaffey the transition to become part of Australia’s third largest provider of early education and childcare is an exciting career opportunity. ��

The team at The Beach Early Learning Tuggerah bring Affinity’s Value of Having Serious Fun to life.

“It’s incredible feeling so connected to a larger company so quickly – Affinity’s people are so present online and in centres to help us feel like we have a voice,” Holly explained.��

“Our current philosophy and methodologies also align with the Lifelong Learning Curriculum, so 2025 is going to be an exciting year for us,” she said.��

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Awards Winners Ends Year on a High for Affinity

Carla Adams — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 23:00:00 +0000

��ר�� has recognised more than 100 individual employees and centre teams in the State Finals and National Winners announcements of the 2024 Affinity Awards.��

Taking out the number #1 position as Best Centre Manager for 2024, Bree White from Milestones Early Learning Emerald Beach in New South Wales was recognised for consistently delivering Gold-standard quality, compliance, outstanding early education outcomes for children and exciting career development opportunities for her team.��

Affinity CEO Tim Hickey said while there had been a number of candidates for the Best Centre Manager title, Bree’s 2024 performance results made her a clear standout.��

“Under Bree’s leadership over the past few years, Milestones Early Learning Emerald Beach achieved incredible occupancy running at 100%, while retaining a stable team, achieving a Gold rating from our internal Quality assessment process, and maintained their local reputation for being the number one centre in the area,” Mr Hickey said.��

“Bree is a capable and much-loved leader trusted by her team and families, and we’re very proud to announce her as Best Centre Manager 2024.”��

Recognised as the national winner for Excellence in Early Education as well as the Affinity Value of Having Serious Fun, the team at Milestones Early Learning Coomera (Amity Road) celebrated a year of support and connection.��

“After being acquired by ��ר�� in June 2023, we ready to make 2024 our best year ever – we've never had more support or fun and we knew we could reach 100% occupancy while ensuring the team were happy and connected,” explained Centre Manager Sarah Robinson.��

“Being part of ��ר�� means we have a department for every area of support we require, and this means our team have been able to simply focus on improving our quality and the early education programs we deliver to our children. It’s so great to be part of such an awesome bunch of people and we’re really grateful for the recognition that Affinity has given us.”��

The coveted Early Childhood Teacher of the Year was awarded to Natasha Plant from Aussie Kindies Early Learning Keilor. Inspired by her own early childhood teacher, Natasha said she had ‘a passion for making a positive impact on children’s development during the most important years of their lives.’��

“I’m so grateful to be working in a role which allows me to foster lifelong learning, create a nurturing environment and build meaningful relationships with both children and their families,” said Natasha.��

One of the first early childhood teachers to become certified in Affinity’s Lifelong Learning Curriculum, Natasha was recognised by Affinity’s Education Team for her work implementing inquiry-based learning into her programs and skillful approach to intentional teaching which extended on children’s interests.��

“I love seeing children contribute to the program, it makes it more engaging and far more beneficial for their learning and development,” Natasha explained.��

“Affinity gives teachers so many opportunities for growth and my goals for 2025 are already motivating me for the year ahead,” she said.��

The full list of national winners for the 2024 Affinity Awards is as follows:��

Affinity Values Awards - Centres

Going Above and Beyond: Milestones Early Learning Wagaman, NT��
Living The Team Spirit: Papilio Early Learning Ingleburn, NSW��
Having Serious Fun: Milestones Early Learning Centre Coomera Amity Road, QLD��
Being Completely Connected: Milestones Early Learning Moorebank, NSW
Delivering Outstanding Professionalism: Milestones Early Learning Canning Vale, WA
Creating Shining Stars: Milestones Early Learning Tarneit, VIC��

Education & Service Awards - Individuals

Cook Of The Year: Eliza Jupp - Papilio Early Learning Barton, ACT
Trainee of the Year: Karen Marshall - Milestones Early Learning Rutherford, NSW
Nursery Educator of the Year: Samantha Jackson - Papilio Early Learning Meadowbank, NSW
Toddler Educator of the Year: Chaoxia Liu - Milestones Early Learning Macquarie, ACT
School Readiness Educator of the Year: Serena Lucas - Papilio Early Learning Reedy Creek, QLD
Lead Educator of the Year: Priyanka Pendharkar - Milestones Early Learning Canning Vale, WA
Educational Leader of the Year: Rubena Cuda - Milestones Early Learning Smithfield, QLD
Senior Educational Leader of the Year: Ellen Wilson - Kids Academy Woongarrah, NSW��
Early Childhood Teacher of the Year: Natasha Plant - Aussie Kindies Keilor, VIC��

Safety and Compliance Awards

Most Improved in Safety and Compliance: Milestones Early Learning Yokine, WA��
Excellence in Safety and Compliance: Papilio Early Learning Currumbin Waters, QLD��
Safety Leader of the Year: Milestones Early Learning Marsden - Skye Coyle, QLD & Kids Academy Jamisontown - Renee Butler, NSW��

Most Improved & Excellence Awards

Most Improved in Quality: Milestones Early Learning Kellyville North, NSW��
Excellence in Quality: Milestones Early Learning Tarneit, VIC��
Most Improved in Early Education: Papilio Early Learning Auburn, NSW��
Excellence in Early Education: Milestones Early Learning Centre Coomera Amity Road, QLD��
Most Improved in Occupancy: Milestones Early Learning Marsden, QLD��
Excellence in Occupancy: Aussie Kindies Niagara Park, NSW��
Most Improved in Labour Management: Milestones Early Learning Roma, QLD��
Excellence in Labour Management: Aussie Kindies Keilor, VIC��
Most Improved in People Development: Milestones Early Learning The Lakes, QLD��
Excellence in People Development: Milestones Early Learning Dalyellup, WA��
Most Improved in Customer Service: Aussie Kindies Creswick, VIC��
Excellence in Customer Service: Papilio Early Learning Coombabah, QLD��
Most Improved in Business Performance: Milestones Quinns Rocks, WA��
Excellence in Business Performance: Milestones Early Learning Capalaba, QLD��

Performance Awards - Individuals

Best Assistant Centre Manager: Kids Academy Kensington - Agata Kaczmarek-Vlassakakis, VIC��
Best Assistant Centre Manager - Runner Up: Papilio Early Learning Rosebery Paula Manginsay, NSW��
Most Improved Centre Manager: Milestones Early Learning Deeragun - Gabrielle Murray, QLD��
Best Centre Manager - Runner Up: Milestones Early Learning Kelso - Carollyn Youngman, QLD��
Best Centre Manager: Milestones Early Learning Emerald Village - Bree White, NSW��
Most Improved Area Manager: Katrina Hands, QLD��
Best Area Manager: Rachel Stapleton, NSW��

Executive Recognition - Individuals

State Manager's Choice: QLD - Renee Garrad; NSW - Sarah McCluand - ACT - Janice Lobb; VIC - Hannah Pappas; WA - Rachael Elliott; NT - Priscilla Borges��
All Round Shining Star Award: Sarah Jovani, Centre Manager, Milestones Early Learning Lisarow, NSW��
CEO's Choice: Sarah Mission and Samantha Waldock, QLD��
Buzz Award: Samara Phillips, Senior Centre Manager, ACT��

Recognising our valued sponsors

The 2024 Affinity Awards have been made possible with the support of valued sponsors including:��

Gold – Complete Office Supplies

As a preferred supplier for ��ר�� and a proud Gold Sponsor, COS is committed to supporting early education and childcare centres. We understand the unique needs of early childhood education settings and provide tailored solutions to optimise administrative processes, streamline procurement, and create positive and inclusive learning environments.��

Our extensive range of products includes stationery, technology, and furniture supplies, as well as baby essentials and cleaning products, all designed to keep staff and children healthy, safe, and productive. Additionally, we offer a wide selection of eco-friendly products to support your sustainability efforts. As a family-owned business, COS is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of marginalised communities by ensuring access to education, healthcare, and basic necessities for all individuals. We feel a deep sense of responsibility to give back.��

Gold – Modern Teaching Aids

Modern Teaching Aids (MTA) is a leading advocate for enriching early childhood education experiences across Australia. As a preferred supplier to ��ר�� and proud Gold Sponsor, MTA demonstrates its unwavering commitment to supporting early childhood educators and fostering innovation in this critical stage of development. An advocate for early childhood education, empowering educators and inspiring young learners across Australia, MTA continues to elevate standards in early childhood education and contribute to the growth and development of future generations.�� By fostering a community of learning and innovation through their innovative products, personalized support, and dedication to professional development, MTA empowers early childhood professionals to excel in their roles and positively impact young children's lives.��

Silver – Industry Graduates

Proud to deliver training, development, and support to trainees, educators, Early Childhood Teachers and Centre Management Teams! Industry Graduates improves workforce capability through design and implementation of commercially focused strategies for employers and industry bodies. IT has been working closely with Affinity to Realise Potential in all employees through our ‘Affinity Learning Academy’ model, which provides fully funded accredited training delivered by respected RTOs since 2017. We focus on attraction, recruitment, development and retention of candidates into the workforce from pre employment to leadership.��

Silver – Hills Uniforms Australia

For the past 13 years, Hills Uniforms Group has supplied uniforms, workwear, PPE and merchandise to clients across Asia Pacific. Hills Uniforms core values of communication, collaboration, professionalism and going above and beyond for our clients is shared and echoed within “The Affinity Way”. Delivering Outstanding Professionalism is a key Affinity Value – and one reflected by the presentation of our Centre Managers, educators and operational team around Australia. As ��ר��s preferred supplier and Silver Sponsor, Hills Uniforms Group is delighted to use the opportunity to showcase the diverse uniform range.��

Bronze – Rockbuild

Proudly supporting facilities repair, playground and internal improvements and safety initiative projects nationally for Affinity! RockBuild Group are an Australian based leading provider, specialising in Design and Construction, Major and Minor Renovations, Project Management and Facilities Maintenance Services, specialising in the Retirement Living, Retail and Childcare sectors.��

RockBuild have developed extensive experience and capability, to ensure we offer industry leading solutions to suit your specific construction project, renovation, programmed and reactive maintenance needs, offering a complete project management and construction service. At RockBuild Group, we take pride in our commitment to delivering exceptional results on every project we undertake. Our team of highly skilled and experienced professionals work closely with our clients to understand their needs and objectives, ensuring that we deliver customised solutions that meet their specific requirements.��

The post Awards Winners Ends Year on a High for Affinity appeared first on ��ר��.

Cash Before Christmas: Early ECEC Pay Rise For Affinity Employees

Carla Adams — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 23:00:00 +0000

��ר�� has confirmed that all employees eligible for the new ECEC payment are now receiving it effective 2nd December 2024.��

The first payments to employees were made on 11th December and included the 10% increase above award wages.��

CEO Tim Hickey said the decision to put ‘cash in our people’s hands before Christmas’ was one quickly approved by all executives and the board in recognition of the Federal Government’s commitment to funding for employees in the sector.��

"We didn’t want our people who work so hard every day to wait a single day longer than necessary so we’re happy to fund the pay rise while we await the grant monies,” Mr Hickey said.��

“It’s one way to say a big thank you and show our support to our people as quickly as possible.”��

Chief People Officer Rolanda Mitchell said the 10% wage increase for early childhood educators marks a significant milestone in recognising the incredible impact our educators have as they nurture, care for and develop a lifelong love of learning in thousands of children around Australia.��

“The important work our people do cannot be underestimated and we’re thrilled to pass this pay rise on early in recognition of how highly we value our employees,” Ms Mitchell said.��

The post Cash Before Christmas: Early ECEC Pay Rise For Affinity Employees appeared first on ��ר��.

Carla Adams, Author at ����ר��

Happy Workiversary Miss Tina and Miss Adriana

����ר�� Launches Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)

Early Indicators of Success at Primary School Now Possible at ����ר�� Centres

����ר�� Centres Celebrate Team Spirit after ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred��

Acknowledging International Women’s Day 2025 at ����ר��

Celebrating the Journey to Exceeding at Kids Academy Glenmore Park��

Potential, Realised: Best Centre Manager Bree White��

����ר�� Goes Above and Beyond 250 in 2025

Awards Winners Ends Year on a High for Affinity

Affinity Values Awards - Centres

Education & Service Awards - Individuals

Safety and Compliance Awards

Most Improved & Excellence Awards

Performance Awards - Individuals

Executive Recognition - Individuals

Recognising our valued sponsors

Gold – Complete Office Supplies

Gold – Modern Teaching Aids

Silver – Industry Graduates

Silver – Hills Uniforms Australia

Bronze – Rockbuild

Cash Before Christmas: Early ECEC Pay Rise For Affinity Employees

Carla Adams, Author at ��ר��

��ר�� Launches Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)

Early Indicators of Success at Primary School Now Possible at ��ר�� Centres

��ר�� Centres Celebrate Team Spirit after ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred��

Acknowledging International Women’s Day 2025 at ��ר��

��ר�� Goes Above and Beyond 250 in 2025