Where did you hear about The Fraser Foundation?

One of the ladies I work with mentioned it to me while we were conversing about university, I was in the process of applying for the course when she told me. 

How does it feel to be the recipient of a Fraser Foundation scholarship?

I don't think words can explain the gratitude I feel. I was already feeling the pinch as a single mum, so having this opportunity is amazing.

What challenges are you facing?

I am a single mum who is currently working two jobs, six days per week to cover the cost of living, etc. My goal is to provide my son with a home, giving him consistency and stability. I moved to the childcare sector in 2016 leaving behind a successful banking career. I think the challenges of being a single mother are tough enough let alone add in financial stress, so I have literally been working one night almost every weekend for 18 months now, I’m just getting into a good place and can now take one weekend off per month which allows me some me time or some extra study time.

What inspired you to change from a success career in banking to early education?

When I was at school, my work experience was in a preschool. So it's definitely something I had thought about during school. When I left school I didn't think I had the grades to go to Uni let alone the money, I was also from a single mum family. I think there is a barrier there in itself. So when the time came to move on from the bank, it was just a given. It was the first and only option I investigated.

You clearly have a vested interest in early education, how do you will pass down your passion for lifelong learning to the children in your care, as well as your son?

I think my own constant learning journey is a great example I have set for my son. It’s never too late to follow and achieve a goal. He understands Uni for me is a way to improve my job prospects and to make a better life for us. I share my Uni journey with my peers and the children in my care.

What made you want to move from educator in nursery to ECT?

It's a blessing to care for little ones and share a love that a mother offers their child. I guess my instincts as a mother are a great attribute to a nursery educator. I had been there for three straight years and I knew it was time to try something new. Something different. I have spent limited time in the Kindergarten at my centre but had bonded with those children, and maybe a little natural progression. And of course the financial benefits were also on my mind.

It's so very rewarding. I have spent 80% of my time with the younger age group, mostly babies. Watching them grow and developing a bond with them is such a special opportunity. People trust us with their babies and that’s a massive thing. Then watching them progress, hitting milestones and continuing to trust me with their needs is a blessing. How lucky are we really? This year as I join the Kindergarten as an ECT, I am in an amazing position as the children I started with in my current centre, from the babies room and now all my students in the Kindy program and that is exciting!

What centre do you work in and what’s your role?

I'm currently at Kidzco ELC Merrimac since 2021, I’ve been in other roles also, educational leader and assistant director.