As Spring is welcomed in September, the team at Green Leaves Early Learning prepare for a special annual event at their centres nationwide, Early Childhood Educators’ Day, which celebrates the dedication and valuable contribution of their Educators.

“We have a strong culture at Green Leaves, which is underpinned by our commitment to our team members and the families who trust us to provide the best early education and care for the most important people in their lives,” said Chief Executive Officer, Mark McDonald-Smith.  

“We have an exceptional team. On behalf of Green Leaves, I would like to wish every one of our Educators a very happy Educators’ Day,” said Mr McDonald-Smith.  

The early years is a vital time for a child’s learning and development, which builds a foundation for future learning. In their daily interactions with children, early childhood educators play an important role in cultivating knowledge and experiences that are necessary for them to thrive later in life.  

The role of Educators is also one that empowers families. The Educators at Green Leaves are committed to successful family connections built on trust. They see themselves as an extension of the family “village” – part of the work and family juggle. 

National Operations Manager, Kirsten Berry believes that it’s important that Educators are acknowledged for the role they play in caregiving and the intrinsic value in cultivating meaningful relationships with the families. 

“While on a daily basis our Educators prioritise the families and children who form a part of their centre community, Green Leaves have taken the approach of looking after the Green Leaves family. Educators’ Day is one of the many ways we thank our Educators,” said Ms Berry.  

Another way is through the employee benefits and wellbeing program, Green Leaves Work Perks.  

Designed to support existing team members, and those who’re returning to work after growing their families, this initiative has been well-received as many Educators at Green Leaves are parents themselves who have chosen to share their passion and professional knowledge with the company.  

Cathryn, a Centre Director in Victoria loves how this initiative supports her desire to continue doing what she loves most – being a mother and growing her career in early learning.  

While Tim, an Educator in Tasmania started his journey with Green Leaves when he was looking for a suitable centre for his infant daughter. The warm and nurturing team at  Green Leaves encouraged him to further his career as an early childhood professional, which has been utterly fulfilling. 

There are many who have grown and evolved with Green Leaves as the company continues to grow too. Yvette started her journey with Green Leaves as a Centre Director and  is now an integral part of the Operations Team. She supports and facilitates introductions for newly appointed Centre Directors as they immerse themselves in the Green Leaves culture. Not only has she chosen to return to Green Leaves after parental leave, Yvette has also chosen Green Leaves as a place of education and care for her toddler.  

Stephen, who was previously an Early Childhood Teacher, furthered his career with Green Leaves and is now a Centre Director. A devoted parent and an advocate for early learning, Stephen enjoys the dynamic nature of his role, and especially having his daughter being well cared for makes balancing the morning routine with three children much easier and less stressful – something many of us can relate to.  

So today, in big ways, little ways, and all the other million ways that count, Green Leaves Early Learning wishes all Educators a very Happy Early Childhood Educators’ Day!