Among our many talented and valued Affinity-ites around Australia, April includes the Affinity Workiversaries of two wonderful early childhood educators and leaders in our sector. We would like to take the opportunity to recognise the work, dedication and passion of Tina, our Centre Manager at Milestones Early Learning Everton Park, who is celebrating 15 years, and Adriana, our Affinity Area Manager who is celebrating 18 years!
We asked Tina and Adriana to share with us their stories.
What motivated you to work in early education originally?
Tina: After returning to Australia after being a nanny overseas I knew I wanted to continue working with children as I enjoyed being able to help provide a solid foundation for them as they developed and grew.
Adriana: I really liked children and knew I wanted to make a difference in their lives. From the age of 10 onwards, I was continually babysitting. A friend had twins and I couldn’t stay away! That was the start of my love for children, and career in early childhood education.
What’s the most important thing a child has ever taught you?
Tina: To be fully in the moment, laugh, have fun and enjoy the simple moments.
Adriana: Patience
How and why did you progress from being an educator, to a leader?
Tina: I worked my way through the ranks, studied my certificate III then diploma before taking on an ACM, then CM role. I really enjoyed having input on the direction the centre was taking and truly believe the culture you create in the centre dictates how successful you will be.
Adriana: I always wanted to lead and be in a position to make change – I aspire to being a compassionate and available leader. I progressed through the qualifications available to our sector at the time, and then Affinity Education Group acquired the centre I worked for back around 2015, and from there, I was provided with so much leadership and support to step into management roles, eventually becoming the Area Manager here in Townsville.
What are the greatest challenges early childhood educators face today, and how can larger companies like Affinity Education Group support them best?
Tina: Burnout is the biggest thing, it’s so important to work as team, and for us as Centre Managers, knowing the signs and supporting each other. Affinity are already supporting their educators with access to our EAP, and a culture of support.
Adriana: It’s easy to miss the potential for the difference we can make – the biggest thing Affinity can support us with is supporting positive interactions with children – getting back to basics, how to set up activities, how to create environments.
What are the greatest rewards from working in early childhood education?
Tina: The relationships built with the children and families, being a part of their villages and offering guidance and support.
Adriana: Inspiring others to be great leaders, to see people progress.
Which of the Affinity Values do you align with the most and why? How do you demonstrate and enable this in your own teams?
Tina: Living the Team Spirit- there is no one person who is more important than anyone else on our team, our centre is based on mutual respect and working together to highlight each individuals strengths.
Adriana: Being Completely Connected – I am always at the end of the phone and I have my team’s back.
Finish this sentence: At the end of every day, I hope I have....
Tina: Made a difference, even just a tiny one to the lives of our families and children.
Adriana: Made someone smile!
Sum up your job in 3 words?
Tina: Rewarding, Fun, Engaging.
Adriana: Challenging, Inspiring & Fun!