Announcements - October 15, 2024
Intereach Family Day Care educator wins state award
Intereach’s Kirsty Thomas is the Family Day Care Educator of the Year for NSW & ACT.
The Deniliquin educator’s nurturing, inclusive and creative approach to teaching young children and connecting with her community saw her take out the state title in the 2024 FDCA Excellence in Family Day Care Awards.
It comes after she was named Regional Educator of the Year for the Wagga Wagga and Riverina area (NSW).
An overwhelmed Kirsty said winning this award was an incredibly proud moment.
It reflects the dedication and commitment I have invested in creating a nurturing environment where children can thrive, families feel valued, and our local community is actively engaged.
“This recognition highlights the meaningful relationships I’ve built and the positive impact I’m making. It inspires me to continue providing the highest quality care for the children and families who utilise my service, knowing that my approach to learning and connection is making a real difference.”
When Kirsty started her career as a Family Day Care educator with Intereach almost three years ago, her primary goal was to create an environment where every child feels loved, valued, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential.
“I aspire to leave a lasting positive impact on each child I have the privilege of caring for by nurturing their love of learning and helping them develop the confidence and skills they need to thrive as they grow,” she said.
“I focus on supporting their individual strengths and needs, empowering them to become confident, independent learners who can connect meaningfully with the world around them.”
Intereach Family Day Care Program Manager Rebecca Fitzpatrick said Kirsty had worked tirelessly to build strong, supported relationships with the children and families in her service in a short period of time.
“Her creativity and ability to provide aesthetically pleasing interest-based learning experiences are second to none,” she said.
“For an educator new to the FDC space, Kirsty has embraced community connections, embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives into her program and connecting with local Aboriginal women. Kirsty and her children also regularly engage in an intergenerational play session at a local aged care facility.”
Kirsty chose a career in Family Day Care because of the flexibility to balance her personal life while pursuing her passion for early childhood education.
“This career allows me to create a home-like, individualised environment where children feel safe, valued, and empowered to explore, learn, and grow.”
“The smaller group setting allows me to develop a deeper understanding of each child’s unique needs, personality, and interests. It’s truly rewarding to witness their milestones, whether it’s a child mastering new vocabulary, building their confidence in sharing ideas, or exploring new interests.
“I also value the creative freedom that comes with running my own business. Creating a nurturing space where learning is both fun and meaningful is what makes this role so fulfilling for me.
“What I love most is the incredible relationships that I’m able to build with both the children and their families.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have started my Family Day Care journey with Intereach. Their invaluable support has played a significant role in my professional growth and commitment to providing quality care.”
Although she didn’t take out the national title, Kirsty said she was incredibly proud of everything she had achieved in such a short time.
“Winning would have been wonderful, but awards aren’t the reason I do this job – being named a national finalist has just been an incredible bonus,” she said.
“Reaching the top four in Australia is such a significant achievement, and I am honoured to have been able to represent Intereach Family Day Care at state level for the first time. It has been a privilege to highlight just how special Family Day Care truly is.”
If you are interested in a rewarding career as an Intereach Family Day Care educator, please contact the Family Day Care team on 1300 488 226, email fdc@intereach.com.au or visit our website: Become a Family Day Care Educator – Intereach
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