AN Alexandra Hills childcare centre has won the Australian Early Education and Care’s Service of the Year Award, receiving about $10,000 towards professional development and resources.
The Hills Montessori was recognised for their achievements and plans for continued improvement and innovation in the early years education and care sector at Friday night’s gala in Sydney.
The centre was among one of four national award winners after being shortlisted from 1,700 nominees and winning a state award.
Nominees were required to enter a written submission demonstrating their achievements in practice and commitment to five key areas aligned with the National Quality Standards.
Managing director Rebecca Grugan said it was rewarding to know the team’s hard work was acknowledged, especially by a parent who nominated them for the award.
“I’ve always believed in the power of small businesses but it wasn’t until I started my journey in education six years when I became a mother that I realised how important educators are for our local communities,” she said.
“This is why thank educators of today who are doing a great job.”
The Hills Montessori focuses on education towards global citizenship – learning about the world and its environment, aiming to become a zero waste business and improving staff’s education.
“It’s being open-minded so as to grasp an understanding of a world bigger than ourselves,” Ms Grugan said.
“Cooking food on site means we can control our food wastage…. our children make yoghurt and learn the science behind why it works.”
Ms Grugan said the funds would send two educators to the Green School in Bali for a sustainable education course as well as help provide an online PD for seven staff members to learn about global education.
“These courses combined would help our young service reach our two big goals quicker than we would without them and our centre can aim for an even greater impact on our local community and the early childhood sector nationally,” she said.
Judging chair Paul Clancy said every year he was overwhelmed by the commitment and dedication shown by those working in the early years education and care sector.
“We should all be incredibly proud and thankful to have these professionals playing a role in the development and growth of our children,” he said.
Entrants were nominated by family, friends, colleagues and parents with children in their care and had to qualify for the finalist stage.