Our Educators

Bachelor of Social Science (Childcare) (1994)

Assistant Director, 4 Year Old Kindergarten Educator and Possums Bush Kinder Leader

I completed a diploma in Social Science (Childcare) in 1994 and worked for the Glen Eira council in a child care centre for several years running the programs for 0-2 and 2-3 year olds. I was offered a nannying job which included a lot of travel and opportunities that were too exciting to turn down. I stayed with that family for 13 years. Leaving not long after my second child was born.

My Elonera experience began when my son attended in 2011 for 4 Year Old Kinder then my daughter a few years later. It was after Hailey finished that I realised I still enjoyed working with kinder age children and my passion for watching them grow and learn was something that I was missing. I did a little bit of relief work at Elonera and when in 2018 a position became available at Elonera I happily applied as I wanted to be part of the wonderful community that is Elonera.

Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) (2015)

4 Year Old Kindergarten Teacher (Koalas)

I have a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) and I have been teaching within the Early Childhood sector for nine years and working as an Early Childhood Teacher for the past six years. Most recently my passion has led me to work in Kinder as a four year old Kindergarten teacher, delivering a funded program since 2018. My practice is influenced by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, as I believe that children are curious individuals and it’s our role to foster children’s inquisitiveness and creativity so that they become lifelong learners.  

On the weekends, I enjoy taking my dog swimming at the pool and the beach, dabbling in a craft project and spending time with my family and friends.

Diploma in Early Childhood Education
Certificate III in Childcare and Education (UK equivalent NVQ3)

4 Year Old Kindergarten Educator (Koalas), Koala Club Lead & Child Safety Officer

I started working with the 3 Year Old Kangaroos at the beginning of 2020. I love seeing how children grow and develop, and feel it is a great privilege to be part of their learning journey at Elonera! I have a passion for all things creative, and love bringing ideas to each session to expand on children’s interests and skills. It’s great to be here with such a fantastic team of teachers and co-educators.

I have worked in daycare, primary schools in UK and Australia, as a teacher’s aide and I have also been a private nanny, both here and overseas. Early childhood, especially sessional kindergarten is where I want to be and I am excited to have recently expanded on my qualifications in 2022 with my Diploma in Early Childhood Education.

As a mother, I know from experience how hard it can sometimes be to leave your child, sometimes for the first time, so my warm nature and sensitivity for finding out each family’s needs, will help children settle into kinder, and calm any anxious feelings. Let’s have some fun!

4 Year Old Kindergarten Educator (Possums) and Nature Pedagogue

Hi, my name is Kate, before I became a teaching assistant at Elonera, my first career was as an MCIPS (Member of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply) certified procurement specialist. Taking the opportunity to raise my two children Oliver and Emilia full-time made me re-evaluate what I really enjoyed doing. Watching them learn and grow sparked a new passion for child development.

So when considering a new career I took the opportunity to retrain and I am currently working towards a Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education.  I also have an AVCE in Art and Design specialising in textiles – a skill which I’ve used to be creative with my children and looking forward to sharing at Elonera.

My Elonera journey started when my daughter attended the 4 Year Old Kinder program. Watching her blossom made me realise how important it is that the start of a child’s introduction to a school environment should be positive and exciting.

I believe that exploring life through play-based learning, happiness and nurture plays a key role and I can’t wait to guide children through this exciting start to life. 

Diploma in Teacher Education Preparation
Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (in progress)

3 Year Old Kindergarten Educator

I am thrilled to be part of the Elonera Preschool community. I hold a Diploma in Teacher Education Preparation and am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood and Primary. I have been working in the early childhood sector since 2023, with additional experience in a primary school setting while completing my diploma.

Since joining the early childhood field, I have found great joy in working with the preschool age group, particularly in fostering play-based and inquiry-driven learning experiences. These areas have ignited my passion for supporting young learners’ development in a nurturing environment. I initially came to Elonera for my professional work experience, and when a position became available, I was excited to join this exceptional team and contribute to the vibrant community here.

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
Diploma of Early Childhood Education (in progress)

3 Year Old Kindergarten Educator

Hello, my name is Elly! I have worked as an educator since 2018 and am super excited to have had the opportunity to be at Elonera. Over the last few years I have been lucky enough to be a part of close knit teams across all ages, even having spent some time as the “chef” at one service. During this time I have come to love each room for its own rewarding experiences. I really love being a part of your little ones lives and strive to always create a positive, safe, and comfortable space away from home where the children are excited to come.

I am married to an amazing man who is a trade teacher, together we have a cute bird and one too many fish. I enjoy going on walks, reading a good book, absolutely love tea, cooking, and baking. I look forward to getting to know you all and being a part of your special community!

Bachelor of Early Childhood Education

3 Year Old Kindergarten Teacher (Wombats)

Hi, my name is Julia, and I feel so lucky to be a part of the Elonera Preschool community. I hold a Bachelor of Early Childhood Teaching and have enjoyed working in Early Childhood Education for the past 14 years. I began my career as an educator with babies and have had the pleasure of working with children of all ages since then.

I believe that childhood is a magical time where wonder, curiosity and creativity should be honoured and celebrated. My practice focuses on building positive relationships and connections with each child and their family. I am particularly passionate about outdoor learning and the wonderful opportunities it provides for exploration and discovery. I also have a love for children’s literature and enjoy finding moments throughout the day to sit down and read with the children.

At home, I have two young children who bring so much joy and fun into my life. As a family, we love going on outdoor adventures and taking beach holidays whenever we can. I also enjoy going to the movies or heading out for a good meal with friends and family.

Diploma in Children’s Services (Early Childhood and Education)
Certificate III in Early Childhood and Education

3 Year Old Kindergarten Educator

My name is Camillia (Cam). I have been in the sector for over 13 years, first in the role of lead educator, then educational leader. I remember years ago, when I was studying and reading all the different frameworks and regulations. What most resonated with me, was the United Nations on the Rights of the Child. Every child has the right to the very best we can provide them and their families. They deserve respect and understanding and when we take time to get to know them, listen and respond to all the different ways they communicate with us, we are then able to fully understand them as the unique individuals they are. Families are our partners and share in the same vision we have for their child; to provide a safe, healthy environment with teachers and educators who provide educational programs and practices of the very best quality. I believe respect and communication are the basis for successful long-lasting relationships and in creating a team with a Shared Image of the Child. An image where children are empowered to make choices, take responsibility and held in the highest of esteem, capable of achieving anything they set their minds to. My very first job as a teenager was as an assistant educator in a Pre-school, I loved it and knew this was what I wanted to do!

I successfully ran a family business, ( a pizza shop), for over 25 years with my husband and children. I am a mother of three and love spending time with my family, going on walks and reading.