Children feel safe and secure when they experience their educators being a secure base. But how can educators predictably be a secure base in a group environment where there are many competing demands?

In this presentation you will hear about:

• What a secure base is and why it is important for the child and the educator.
• Group-related sensitivity, which involves being attentive to an individual child whilst also managing the group of children as a whole.
• Stillness and relational language to promote group-related sensitivity shown in two relational transitions – the morning goodbye, and children’s transition into play after parents leave.

Overall, the presentation aims to equip educators with insights into creating a supportive environment that prioritises building connections and facilitating smooth transitions for children.

Our presenters

and belong to the practice called Secure Beginnings. Robyn is a psychologist and Belinda Friezer is a psychologist and art therapist and they have worked in the field of infant mental health for more than twenty-five years. They are concerned with the emotional work of educators and practices that build a secure base culture in a group environment.

The details

Date: Wednesday, 8th May 2024

Time: 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Where: University of Wollongong, Northfields Avenue, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522
Room: Thought Bubble, located in Building 11, level 2 (above Piccolo & Me) [see map]

Please note there has been a change in location from Wollongong Library to UOW.

Catering: Light refreshments

Cost: FREE Limited spaces available –

This session is open to all educators – Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â and beyond.

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ÌýBellambi Point Community Preschool, a service that proudly holds an ‘Excellent Rating’ under the National Quality Standards, was our first stop. Director Cassie took the opportunity to demonstrate the deep-seated community connections and familial relationships that form the very core of her practice. Bellambi Point Community Preschool is a great example of how the Start Strong and Disability and Inclusion Program funding can bring about tangible benefits to children and families. Providing high quality early education and care, in a safe environment to all children is ingrained in our philosophy, and it was a delight to showcase this commitment.Ìý

Our next stop was Bulli Community Preschool, a service with an ‘Exceeding’ rating and a high demand from the local community. Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â’s recent extension to include a second preschool room, has enabled us to meet the needs of our community and accommodate an additional 20 places for three-to five-year-olds.ÌýÌý

Bulli’s Early Childhood Teacher, Belinda, and Practice Manager, Nichol, shared remarkable examples of intentional, play-based pedagogy, emphasising the importance of intentional and child-led preschool programs within our long day care environments.ÌýÌý

Lastly, we visited Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â’s Thirroul Fun Club, where the children were eager to share their favourite aspects of their outside school hours care (OSHC) program. Be it the opportunities to be with friends or the joy of creating green treats for St Patrick’s Day, their enthusiasm was palpable.ÌýÌý

Thirroul Fun Club, under the guidance of Director Bridy, epitomises a successful partnership between the school and our service. This collaboration ensures the children have access to appropriate facilities and continuity of care, a testament to the benefits of collaborative efforts.Ìý

By opening our doors and initiating open conversations as we did with Mark, highlights the importance of early ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â education and the necessity for sustained funding and support. Advocacy in this form is a powerful tool that helps shape the future directions of our sector, ensuring that we demonstrate the transformative work we do every day in our services.Ìý

This engagement with the department helps to create a mutual understanding, fostering a stronger relationship that benefits not only Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â, but more importantly, the children and families we serve.Ìý

We were grateful for the opportunity to engage in enriching conversations with the Deputy Secretary. We remain committed to providing quality early education and out-of-school hours care, and to lift the status and standing of the profession.Ìý

ÌýAt Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â, we believe in the power of connection, the importance of inclusion, and the transformative potential of education. We look forward to continuing our efforts to bring smiles to our communities, one child at a time.Ìý

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Every quarter, we shine a spotlight on those who embody our culture and values through their leadership and dedication. This initiative is our way of recognising and rewarding the remarkable efforts of our employees.Ìý

We held our annual awards dinner in February to honour our 2023 Values Awards recipients. This special evening was a celebration of those who have shown unwavering dedication to Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â, demonstrating our values through their actions and leadership.Ìý

We are delighted to announce the 2023 recipients of the Highly Commended Values Awards:Ìý

• Jennifer Boyle from Shellharbour ELC for demonstrating our values of Child-Centric, Inclusion, LeadershipÌý
• Lauren Cox from Picton CPS for demonstrating our value of InclusionÌý
• Rebecca Slade from our Marketing team for demonstrating our values of Integrity and LeadershipÌý

Each of these individuals has made an integral contribution to our community. They have gone above and beyond, exemplifying our values through their exceptional leadership. We are truly proud to have them as part of the Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â community.Ìý

Congratulations to Jennifer, Lauren, and Rebecca on their well-deserved recognition!Ìý

Thank you for your continued dedication to Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â and for embodying the spirit of our values in all that you do.Ìý

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Kellie represents the true dedication and advocacy of leaders within the Early Education and Care sector, with an impressive three decades of hands-on experience navigating various roles, gathering a wealth of perspectives only someone with her breadth of experience can offer.

From operational management in not-for-profit organisations to business development and quality assurance for state and federal government, her career tapestry is both vibrant and impactful.Ìý Operational leadership roles have seen her at the helm of initiatives across Early Education, Out of School Hours Care, and Early Intervention programs. Her hands-on approach has not only led operations but also shaped futures.

More recently, Kellie’s expertise found a new avenue as she managed multi-site operations and connected with the School of Education at the University of Wollongong (UOW). Here, she was not just lecturing in the Early Years degree program; she was inspiring the next generation of educators.

A proud Illawarra local, Kellie’s roots run deep in the area. Her involvement with numerous local organisations and the local First Nations community shows us her commitment to acknowledging and honouring the rich tapestry of cultures that make up the fabric of the region.

Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â recognised Kellie’s philosophy and pedagogical approaches align with Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â’s, affirming her appointment to the role. Her knowledge and understanding of relationships form the foundation of effective education and care, which is needed in her Executive role.

As she steps into her new role at Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â in March, she brings with her an unwavering commitment to uphold the organisation’s vision, values, and strategic directions.

The post Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â welcomes a new Executive Lead of Children Services appeared first on Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â.

At Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â, we’re never not learning. Or growing. It’s at the heart of everything we do. Here, you’ll have a front row seat to the latest research and thinking on early ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â education.

For our final Networking Event for 2023, we have invited Phil Bird (Director and Psychologist at The Nest Health Hub) who will explore the key domains of neurodevelopment and provide a practical framework for early ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â educators in supporting children and families who have experienced trauma.

Phil has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a range of challenges including developmental trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, bullying, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, ODD, aggressive behaviours, attachment difficulties and complex behaviour problems.

This 1.5-hour session is open to all educators – Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â and beyond.

When: Wednesday, 22 November 2023, 6:00pm to 8:30pm

Where: Dapto Community Preschool | Dapto Ribbonwood Centre, 103/101-105 Princes Hwy DAPTO NSW 2530

Catering: Pizza

Cost: FREE Limited spaces available –

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When you’re working with children, there are certainly ups and downs. But fun always comes with the territory. You’ll bring the laughter and play to each day, but most importantly, you’ll create magical moments for children to experiment and grow.

Working with a supportive, expert team in the day-to-day running of our centres, our trainees play an important role in shaping young minds. You’ll get amazing experience working with children from 0-5 years. You’ll be encouraged to adapt approaches and bring creativity and playfulness to your work. To tap into your childlike wonder. To meet children where they’re at. And together with the children, their families and your team, you’ll design and deliver colourful learning experiences that match a child’s interests and needs.

To give you a taster of what working as a trainee at Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â would be like, we have partnered with ECTARC, Risk Response Rescue, the IllawarraYES program and the Department of Education to deliver a free pre-employment program. No previous experience is needed, as we’ll teach you everything you need to know.

About the pre-employment program

The 2023 Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â is commencing Tuesday, 21 November 2023 and consist of two days of classroom teaching at ECTARC Training Services and one day work placement in a Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â service each week.

Classes: Tuesdays and Wednesdays between 21 November and 6 December 2023 between 9:30am to 2:30pm at ECTARC Training Services (210 Shellharbour Rd, Warrawong NSW 2502).

Work Placement: Thursdays between 23 November and 7 December 2023 between 9:30am and 2:30pm in a Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â service.

During the three-week program, you will complete three units of competency free of change. The units will transfer to your traineeship as recognition of prior learning, meaning you’ll have a head start and lighten the study load:

• CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people
• CHCPRT025 Identify and report children and young people at risk
• HLTAID012 Provide First Aid in an education and care setting

Following the program, successful participants will be offered a full time traineeship at a local Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â Community Preschool. Upon completion we offer Diploma traineeships as well as full time, part time or casual positions across our 40+ services. Thomas completed the pre-employment program in March 2022 and has since successfully completed his traineeship at Bulli Community Preschool. You can read Thomas’ full story here.

There are some important requirements for those who are considering to kick-start their career as a trainee at Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â:

• Availability to work full-time hours, Monday to Friday
• Be 18 years or older
• Must be able to get aÌý, valid for paid work (Volunteer status is sufficient to participate in the pre-employment program)
• No qualifications or experience is required. In fact, to be eligible, you can’t already hold a Certificate III Education or above
• You’re passionate about creating better outcomes for local children, families and communities
• A commitment to making sure the children in our care are safe and healthy.
• A fun-loving attitude and big smile!

There are lots of reasons why a traineeship with Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â is rewarding. In addition to having the opportunity to make a difference for children and families, our trainees enjoy:

• 60% discount on Early Learning and Out of School Hours Care services
• A bonus $1,250 paid to you every six months throughout your traineeship (as approved by Services Australia)
• Paid study time off the floor each week
• Exclusive face-to-face and online professional learning opportunities
• Mentoring and support from a dedicated Educator in your team and trainee study groups
• Access to exciting internal opportunities to fast track your career upon completion of your traineeship
• Discounts with St George Illawarra Dragons, UOW Early Start Discovery Space, Illawarra Credit Union and more
• Complimentary access to a Total Well-being Platform, including self-assessment tools, perks and savings

If you or someone you know is interested in launching their career working in Early Childhood Education, please or email our People Team on hr@bigfatsmile.com.au for any enquiries.

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Made possible thanks to support from the New South Wales Department of Education, the degree will boost the number of early ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â teachers by removing barriers to study for those who are already working in the sector.

The Bachelor of Education (The Early Years) is an accelerated degree which will see students complete 12 weeks of a professional experience program across two years, with flexibility around the timing of placements.

More than 270 educators are in the initial cohort, four of which are Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â employees:

• Dimitra Perras, Kenny Street Community Preschool 0-5
• John Walsh, Transition to School Program
• Nick Lewis, Children’s Services
• Tracey Pike, Woronora Hights Community Preschool 0-5

Nick Lewis and John Walsh from Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â

UOW Academic Director of the Early Years Associate Professor Cathrine Neilsen-Hewett designed the assessments to continually support the elevation of quality practice across the organisations in which educators are currently working. The program has been described as ground-breaking for the sector as it considers the realities of working day-to-day in early learning and care.

As a partner of this program, Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â, alongside UOW, aims to genuinely support and empower these scholars to achieve and to build their careers.

Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â commends ELACCA, UOW and the department for their intention to build the early ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â workforce capacity to ensure quality in our sector.

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Presenter Dr Jane Warren (University of Wollongong) gave us a front row seat to the latest research and knowledge and shared richly from her own experiences gained from decades working as an early ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â practitioner.

Supported by Dr Warren’s knowledge and strategies, the event provided a platform for attendees to share their ideas, reflect on barriers to inclusion, as well as both successful and less successful strategies they have tried in the past.

Centre Director, Julie, also gave us a tour of the beautiful service, showcasing the Manooka Valley CPS Sensory Room, the veggie garden and residential canaries, chickens, and rabbits.

With professional learning at the heart of everything we do at Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â, there are further sessions scheduled for the remainder of the year. Follow our social media channels to stay up to date on upcoming sessions. In the meantime, if you’d like to know more about current career opportunities, please reach out to our people team at recruitment@bigfatsmile.com.au.

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Although confidence has come with time and numerous professional development opportunities, Josie has been supporting vulnerable children to feel safe and have a strong sense of well-being and to encourage learning at Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â right from the start:

‘I started my traineeship with Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â in a service with children who had experienced trauma and were displaying high needs behaviours. My traineeship was a challenge, but the positive outcomes we as a team created for children and families made it so rewarding.’

Upon completing her traineeship Josie’s passion only flourished further and in 2020 she embarked on the journey of completing her Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. After completing her Diploma in just 9 months, Josie was hungry for more knowledge and enrolled in a Bachelor of Education (0-5) degree at Charles Sturt University.

Here, professional learning and growth is at the heart of everything we do. Josie has seen the benefits of being supported from on a local level in her service, as well as from the head office teams:

‘With my studies, I’m not just supported by my service Director, but also the Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â People & Learning team has been supportive with study assistance. The people team also supported my application for a scholarship, which I was granted. I’ve also had the opportunity to attend Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â funded professional learning, including the in March this year.’

Although Josie has already moved from Trainee to Educational Leader and 2IC, Josie sees the opportunity for continued career growth at Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â once her studies are complete.

‘My role at Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â has already provided the opportunity for significant long-term, meaningful growth. From unsure trainee to a confident educational leader and second-in-charge. I expect to continue this trajectory and move into an Early Childhood Teacher position, and into other leadership opportunities once I complete my study.’

And on top of obtaining a leadership position, Josie wants to continue her advocacy work around children’s rights, safeguarding children and professional recognition of the early education sector upon completing her studies:

‘My purpose at Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â is to make a difference. To support children and their families to feel safe and have a strong sense of wellbeing. To empower and support the educators in my team to be early ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â educators whose every focus is the children and quality education and care.’

Thank you for everything you do for the Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â children and families, Josie.

The post The Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â Experience: How professional learning opportunities have allowed Josie to grow even further as an Early Childhood Professional appeared first on Big Fat ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â.