Hope McGrath has been inspired by the news of Maranoa Regional Council’s new childcare bursary, which aims to assist those who have completed their studies and are looking to enter or remain in the workforce in the Maronoa shire.
Hope, a Cert III qualified early childhood educator with Affinity Education Group who works at Milestones Early Learning Roma, is completing a fully funded Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care through the Affinity Learning Academy.
She’s a warm and smiling face at Milestones Early Learning Roma, where, along with Centre Manager Christel Anderson and Senior Centre Manager Leanne Stewart, she provides vital and valued support to local families who rely heavily on the centre for care.
“Bonuses for completing your studies and staying local are a great way for the local council to recognise the important role we are playing for local families and children in Roma. I made sure I applied so I could receive it,” Hope said.
“I absolutely love my job, and the work we do with children in early education is vital, so it’s nice to have that recognised.”
Affinity Education Group Chief People Officer Linda Carroll has also congratulated the council initiative, which will see educators who complete their studies in 2024 and confirm their intention to remain working in the Maranoa region paid a bonus of between $1000 and $3000, depending on their level of qualification.
“Affinity Education Group is deeply committed to supporting our educators and teachers in Roma with fully paid training pathways, generous salaries and employment benefits to ensure we can continue to provide quality early education and care to Roma families,” Ms Carroll said.
“We are thrilled to hear of this generous and meaningful initiative by the Maranoa Regional Council to further encourage the sector to commit to long term work and study in the area.”
A retention bursary of up to $5000 is available to Diploma or Bachelor qualified educators who remain in the region for three years or more. See more detail here.
To explore career opportunities with Affinity Education Group, qualified educators and teachers are encouraged to apply online for an open role here.
