INDUSTRIAL piping, electrical wire reels and wooden crates could be considered backyard junk by some, but they are toys for curious-minded children at Capalaba’s Eskay kids.
Director Suzette Lageman said reusing discarded bits-and-pieces was all part of the centre’s nature-based teaching philosophy, which was focused on developing children’s interest in the outside world.
She said were there were many reasons families were happy to send their children to Eskay Kids, with outdoor fire pit gatherings, damper making and trips to Bunnings and the Queensland Art Gallery examples of activities planned.
“We allow children the freedom to explore,” she said.
The centre was one of six Queensland services named as a state finalist for service of the year in the Australian Family Early Education and Care awards, with winners to be notified on Tuesday, May 23.
Ms Lageman said it was great recognition for teachers at the service.
The Redlands-based talent was continued with The Hills Montessori teacher Jason Alexander, who was named a state educator of the year finalist, and Day One Early Learning Centre’s Benjamin Jackson, a Queensland finalist for rising star of the year.
Mr Alexander, who has taught for the past decade, said he loved teaching young children and was glad he swapped from high school education to early years while at university.
“It is fun,” he said. “There is nothing better than coming into work and not having to think about anything else.”
Mr Jackson, who is currently a pre-service teacher, decided to pursue teaching after working as a personal trainer, comedian and radio announcer.
He said he wanted to advocate for quality education and for men in the profession.
He has begun his own podcast sessions aimed at promoting the role of men as teachers.
