Carrum Downs Early Learning Centre - Carrum Downs Early Learning Centre

Our Team

Leah Centre Manager- Parental Leave

I have been employed in the Early Years sector since 2007, with Carrum Downs Early Learning Centre being my first and only centre I have worked at. In this time I have completed my Certificate III and Diploma in Early Childhood Education.

Throughout my years, my roles have changed and I have grown as a person, gained knowledge and taken on more responsibilities. I believe that the environment we provide the children with can have a very positive impact towards their learning and development since we provide a lot of stimulating opportunities, and accommodate different learning styles.

As a Centre Manager I pride myself in creating a warm, safe and inviting atmosphere where all children, educators and families feel valued and connected. Over the years I have been in a position to mentor and support the Educators as they require assistance and guidance, and I am grateful for this opportunity to lead a purposeful and enthusiastic team.
Amanda Centre Manager

I have had the pleasure of teaching, guiding and encouraging children to learn and develop since 2012 and have formed nurturing relationships with both the children in my care and their families. I have been lucky enough to work in the younger rooms at our centre and have had some of the best times watching the children I care for reach new milestones and develop new skills.

In 2020 I had my first daughter and in 2022 my second, I have loved the joys of motherhood and using all my knowledge and experience to raise strong, independent young girls.

In 2019 when I joined the Centre Leadership team as 2IC, I enjoyed learning all there is to know about the administrative side and legalities of the industry from an amazing and supportive senior management team. Then in 2025, moving into the Centre Manager role has enabled me to assist families and manage the behind the scenes work that goes into running a centre.
Leanne Nursery Co-Room Leader

After having my own children I followed my passion of wanting to work with children and completed my certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care joining the centres team in 2017. I am now working towards completing my Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care .

I began my time at the Centre as a reliever, which provided me with the opportunity to become familiar with all rooms and staff. Since then I have been privileged to work in the four-year-old Kinder room, being part of helping the children prepare for school, to leading the Nursery. No matter which room I am in, I enjoy them all, being part of their learning and development and watching them meet milestones; from learning to roll or learning to write, is so rewarding.

As an educator I also enjoy getting to know the children and their families, helping create a bond between home and child care. I endeavour to work with families in the best interests of the child and with open communication. I believe all children have the right to feel safe, secure and supported and they require opportunities to engage, explore and experiment through play as they learn about the world around them.
Beth Nursery Co-Room Leader

I have been working at Carrum Downs Early Learning since 2021, in this time I have been able to form strong relationships with both the children I care for, and their families.

With working in the younger rooms it has been amazing being able to watch as each child grows and reaches new milestones in their development every day. I strongly believe all children deserve a safe, secure and welcoming environment where they are able to explore, ask questions, use their imaginations and form relationships of their own.
Stella Nursery Educator

Hi, I’m Stella and I’m studying my Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education.

Since a very early age I have being a dancer, and at age 14 I became a junior assistant at my dance school and immediately I knew that all I wanted to do was to help children grow and learn in all aspects of life.

After my Year 10 work experience, all I could think of was childcare and primary school jobs and I knew that working with children was what I wanted to spend my life doing. It brings me so much joy to be able to be a part of an amazing environment for children of all ages.

From that work experience, in 2026 I joined the team at Carrum Downs Early Learning Centre and I have loved every minute. The centre is so warm and welcoming, and all the support has confirmed for me that I made the right choice of careers.

I’m so excited to share my passion of caring for children, helping them develop and grow in their own way.
Jess Pre-Toddler Room Leader (ECT)

I have been working in Early Childhood since 2012 and have obtained my Bachelor of Early Childhood Education. I believe it is important to build positive relationships with both children and families to give the best care possible to the children. I believe that through interactions educators understand children’s likes and interests that help them feel safe, secure and supported.

The early childhood years are important as this is when children begin their learning journey. There are so many proud moments in watching them reach milestones, goals and learning new skills. I believe in offering positive and inviting indoor and outdoor play spaces to extend children’s interests.

In 2020 I became a mum to a little girl and then in 2024 a little boy. This has given me an entirely different perspective and has assisted me even more so to become an even better educator. Ensuring that I am giving the absolute best care I can for the children and providing them the best start in the early years as all children should have. Assisting the children with learning a variety of skills and being their support person while in my care.
Aisha Pre-Toddler Educator

I have worked in Early Childhood since 2007, with Carrum Downs being the only centre I've worked at.

I completed both my Certificate III and Diploma of Early Childhood and I have worked in every room within our centre, being a reliever and also a room assistant.

In 2017, I became a mum to a beautiful little girl, and my years of experience have given me confidence, which has contributed to raising my daughter. I believe each child in our care should feel safe, secure, and cared for whilst also feeling a sense of belonging. Most importantly, the educator’s role is to help teach children new skills that will help equip them with the knowledge they will need as they grow.

Children learn through trial and error and they also learn through play. Watching the children be proud of the accomplishments they have achieved makes coming to work worth it. It makes me proud to see how happy the children are and see the friendships they form throughout their time at Carrum Downs ELC.
Krista Pre-Toddler Educator

I’m Krista and I have worked in several fields such as hospitality, customer service, animal care and of course, childcare. Each field has given me a range of skills that I use each and every day while working with this amazing team and caring for wonderful children.

I have always enjoyed working with families and working towards a solution together to further support this, I began studies towards my diploma during 2020. I have since enjoyed the challenges and opportunities of the childcare field. It is such a rewarding field to work in, especially when I get to see the children implement the things that they have learned into their play.

Since joining this team in 2026, I have been lucky enough to be able to meet wonderful families, care for amazing children and work with a fantastic and supportive team.
Amelia Pre-Toddler Educator

Hi, my name is Amelia and I proudly became I member of the team in 2023. I completed my Certificate 111 in Early Childhood Education in early 2026 and have enjoyed working with the younger years.

I have always wanted to work with children as I believe it is such an important job and an incredible opportunity to help children reach their milestones. I have a great passion for art and inspire to help children express themselves through their creativity.

I believe in creating an environment where children feel safe to explore their interests as they develop, as well as an environment that is fun and exciting.
Nicole Toddler One Co-Room Leader

Hi, my name is Nicole and I have been a part of the Centre’s team since 2021. I am a Diploma qualified educator, and I have worked in various age groups across the Centre.

I am passionate in what I do as an early childhood educator and love watching the children learn and grow. I am strong on building trusting and respectful relationships with the children and families from the very beginning as us as staff can more easily respond to children’s needs by understanding their relationship with their families.

I absolutely love contributing to the children’s learning by implementing meaningful experiences extending on their interests and developmental needs. I believe children needs lots of physical activity throughout the day, running an indoor-outdoor program for the children to choose their environments.
Talya Toddler One Co-Room Leader

Hi, my name is Tjay, I have been in Early Education since 2012 and a Diploma qualified educator.

I have a passion for teaching and helping young minds be the best they can be. I joined the team at Carrum Downs Early Learning in 2025 and found it to be a welcoming and kind place to be.

My aim is to support children and create a safe place where they feel confident enough to explore their curiosity and seek new challenges.
Charmion Toddler One Educator

Hi, my name is Charmion, and I’ve always had a passion for working with children and helping them grow to their full potential.

Leaving my corporate job in 2014 was a pivotal decision—I traded spreadsheets for storybooks because I knew teaching and guiding young kids was the profession I truly wanted to pursue. As a mother and an educator, this passion has been the driving force in my life.

Working with children brings me immense joy and satisfaction, even on the days when I end up with more paint on my clothes than on the paper. I strive to create meaningful connections with the children I work with, whether through singing (with questionable pitch), or simply playing and having fun. I strongly believe in providing a nurturing and supportive environment where children can feel safe and empowered to explore and learn, it brings me great satisfaction.

In addition to my work with children, I have a keen interest in psychology, which helps me better understand and support the young minds I work with. I also enjoy making cakes and have secret recipes that only I know—yes, my cakes are so good, they’re classified! These hobbies allow me to bring creativity and joy into both my personal and professional life.
Jasmine Toddler One Educator

Hi everyone, I’m Jasmine and I’m currently completing my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. Commencing at Carrum Downs Early Learning in 2026 I am excited for my first role in childcare.

I’ve always had a passion for working with children and love being part of their learning and development. I enjoy working with children of all ages, especially watching them learn new things, express their personalities, and grow in confidence. I also love arts and crafts, creative activities, and learning through play.

Building meaningful relationships with children and their families is something I truly value. I believe every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and encouraged to be themselves, and I strive to create a kind, respectful, and inclusive environment where they can learn, explore, and thrive.

I’m excited to continue learning alongside the children and look forward to creating fun, positive experiences that help make a lasting difference in their early years.
Brooke Toddler Two Room Leader

Hi, I am Brooke. I have been working in the childcare industry for since 2016 and am thrilled to be part of the Carrum Downs team. I have always been passionate about working with children and this only increased when having my own beautiful girls.

I love to create a safe, fun and inviting environment for children to thrive in. It is such a joy to see children hit their milestones and enjoy coming to their home away from home to see their friends and educators.

I have begun studying my Diploma in Early Childhood and cannot wait to see how this broadens my knowledge.
Gabby Toddler Two Educator

Hi, my name is Gabby and I have been working in the early childhood sector since 2017. Since then I have completed my Certificate 3 and Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.

Through the years I have worked in different roles from a casual to being an assistant, support worker and room leader.

In 2025 I had my beautiful boy and have loved becoming a mum. I started at Carrum Downs Early Learning in Early 2026 and have loved getting to know everyone and meeting all the families and wonderful children.

I look forward to getting to know you all better.
Michelle Toddler Two Educator

Hi, I'm Michelle, I like to be called Chell. I started my journey in Early Childhood Education and Care at the end of 2023. After having my son in early 2021 I decided I needed a career change. From that first day after dropping him off at care, I knew that becoming an early childhood educator was what I wanted to do. Seeing how they nurtured and educated him made me want to also do this for other family's children.

It's my passion to not only keep children safe but I am also dedicated to nurturing the growth and development of young children. I believe in the magic of play-based learning, where every giggle and block tower built becomes a stepping-stone in a child's development.

I'm excited to connect with families and educators who share my passion for Early Childhood Education
Breanna Toddler Two Educator

Hi everyone I’m Breanna, I joined Carrum Downs Early learning Centre in 2026 and I’m currently completing my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.

I’ve always loved being around children and watching them learn, grow and develop their own little personalities. I’ve really enjoy getting to know each child, building meaningful relationships and creating a safe, happy and welcoming environment for them. I’m also enjoying getting to know all the families and educators I’m working alongside.

I’m always happy to learn, try new things and get involved, and I can’t wait to continue growing and developing throughout my career in early childhood.
Rachel 3 Year-Old Early Childhood Teacher (ECT)

Hi, my name is Rachel, I hold my Bachelor of Early Childhood and have the pleasure of working in 3-year-old Kinder.

I am very passionate about Early Childhood education, believing that all children have the capacity to learn to their full potential through safe, fun and creative environments.

As a child I would spend many of my weekends camping and spending time on my parent's farm, allowing me to enjoy and learn from nature and animals. These experiences at a young age have emerged in my role as an educator, creating experiences relating to children’s interests that can enhance their learning and development, supporting and assisting all children to meet their milestones through play and meaningful interactions.
Candi 3 Year-Old Early Childhood Teacher (ECT)

Hi, my name is Candi and I began working in Early Childhood in 2014. I’m a qualified Kindergarten teacher and in my Kinder rooms I love creating a warm, fun and welcoming space for little learners to feel safe, happy and excited to explore.

I’m really passionate about building strong, positive relationships with both children and their families. Taking the time to get to know each child, their interests, personalities and what makes them light up helps me support them in feeling secure, confident and ready to learn.

The early years are such a special time, and I absolutely love watching children grow, reach milestones and develop new skills. You’ll often find me reading stories, getting creative with art and craft, and supporting children as they build their foundation skills through play and everyday experiences.
Rebecca 3-Year-old Educator

Hi, my name is Rebecca, but people call me Beck. I started working in early childhood in 2006 at small centre and enjoyed every minute of it. Then in 2010 I started my own family and have 2 beautiful daughters.

I've always had a passion for childcare so continued my studies in 2023 and start working at Carrum Downs Early Learning. Over the years I have gained a lot of experience and knowledge along the way. As an educator I believe building strong relationships with children and families and providing quality care.

What I love about working with children is watching them grow and reaching their new milestone through play-based learning. I take pride in creating a safe and nurturing environment.
Tarsha 4 Year-Old Early Childhood Teacher (ECT)

Hi, my name is Tarsha. I’ve been working in early education since 2013 and became a qualified Early Childhood Teacher in 2024.

I joined the team at Carrum Downs Early Learning in 2024 and am thrilled to be working alongside such a supportive, caring and passionate group of people. Having young children who also attend the centre, I understand how important it is to create relationships between children, families and the community. Having strong relationships is one of my core values as a teacher and I see this as a pivotal point in a child’s learning journey.

I believe in building a program that originates from the children’s interests, which then gives the children opportunities to make choices and express their ideas and voices. It also gives me a focal point to provide intentional teaching opportunities for school readiness, emotional regulation and strong social skills. Children are driven to learn when the environment is enriched with resources and experiences that are stimulating and challenging, and it is my role to provide these opportunities to the children and facilitate guidance and structure within the learning and routine.

The early years are such a formative time for a child, and I appreciate being given the opportunity to support this stage for each little learner.
Franklin Early Childhood Teacher (ECT)

Hello, my name is Franklin, and I am a passionate and dedicated Early Childhood Teacher who is committed to supporting children’s learning, development, and wellbeing through nurturing and engaging experiences. I believe every child is unique and capable, and I strive to create a safe, inclusive, and positive environment where children feel valued, confident, and inspired to learn.

I completed my Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education in 2025 and also hold a Master of Education, which has strengthened my knowledge and understanding of child development, inclusive practices, and effective teaching strategies. My educational journey has equipped me with the skills to support children’s individual needs while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and independence through play-based learning.

In early 2026, I joined Carrum Downs Early Learning Centre, where I was warmly welcomed by the team and quickly felt proud to be part of such a supportive and caring environment. One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is building strong and meaningful relationships with children and their families. I value open communication and believe positive partnerships are essential in creating the best outcomes for every child.

As an educator, I am committed to continuous professional growth and providing high-quality education and care that supports children to become confident learners and active participants in their world.
Nadia 4-Year-Old Educator

Hi, I'm Nadia. I have been an Early Childcare educator since 2015, diploma qualified.

During this time I have had the opportunity to work with all age groups as an assistant as well as a room leader. My passion to work in early childhood is watching children learn and develop whilst guiding them as an educator to set them up for the future ahead of them.

When I started at Carrum Downs ELC in 2022 I had the opportunity to be a support educator. During this time, it gave me the opportunity to get to know many children, families and educators across the centre and gain an understanding as to how each room runs. Most recently, I have enjoyed a couple of years in the Nursery.

During my spare time I love going to the gym, cooking, camping and spending time with my 2 daughters who keep me busy the majority of the time.
Sophie 4-Year-Old Educator

My name is Sophie. I began my Early Childhood Education journey in 2017 and have been part of Carrum Downs Early Learning Centre since 2024.

I am passionate about creating safe, nurturing and engaging environments where children feel confident to learn, explore and grow.

Throughout my career, I have held roles including Room Leader, Room Assistant, Sustainability Officer and Child Safe Advocate. I especially enjoy incorporating creativity, nature, sustainability and my love of animals into children’s learning, while building strong and meaningful relationships with children and their families.

Support Staff

Kelli Centre Administration

Hi, I’m Kelli and I have been an Early Childhood Educator since 1996.

I hold a Diploma in Children’s services, and I have held different roles over the past 30 years, from educator to team leader then taking on more responsibilities and moving up into management.

Joining the team in early 2026, I have settled well into my admin role here at Carrum Downs Early Learning Centre. I really enjoy working alongside the already established management team supporting families, educators and children.

I pride myself on building open, respectful and trusting relationships. No matter the role, I am committed to bringing my knowledge, experience and positive influence to ensure children get the best possible start to life.

I am a mother to 2 beautiful teenage daughters. We spend our weekends with family and friends, enjoying the outdoors, shopping at markets and vintage shops.

I look forward to getting to know everyone in the Centre's community.
Patrisha Educational Leader/ Health and Safety Rep

Hi, my name is Patrisha, but I go by Trish.

I hold my Diploma in Early Childhood Education and have had the pleasure of joining Carrum Downs Early Learning centre as the Educational Leader. My role is to work with the amazing staff to provide programming direction and guidance. I found my path into early learning from the jot it brings me seeing the children grow and learn. My favourite part of the day is walking into a classroom and having my name called followed by a welcome hug. In my role I am able to build relationships with the children across the centre and assist the educators with amazing learning environments.
Courtney Support Educator

Hi I’m Courtney, I am a diploma qualified Educator and have worked in the early childhood sector since 2010. During this time I have held many different roles in the sector including Assistant Educator, Room Leading across all age groups, supporting pedagogy and practice as Educational leader, 2IC and then becoming a Centre Director for a larger company. In 2023 I joined the team at Carrum Downs Early learning and have thoroughly enjoyed supporting all rooms throughout the service.

I believe that building strong trusting relationships with both children and families through open and honest communication is key in supporting every child’s learning and development. Further to this I believe that all children are curious and capable learners and by fostering a love for learning and providing individualised guidance and support through strong trusting relationships, stimulating environments and open ended and inclusive learning opportunities, they can become confident in their abilities and achieve great things.

I look forward to getting to know you and your family better and working alongside you to best support your child on their learning journey!
Zakia Support Educator

I have always had a passion for working with children and helping them grow to their full potential.

I have been working with children since 2015 when I started running my own family day care. I then transitioned into agency work, where I had the opportunity to work at various centres before taking on a permanent role at Carrum Downs Early Learning.

Working with children brings me great joy and satisfaction, and I always strive to support them and their families in any way I can aiming to create meaningful connections with the children I work with, whether it's through singing, art, or simply playing and having fun. I strongly believe in providing a nurturing and supportive environment where children can feel safe and empowered to explore and learn. It brings me great satisfaction to be a part of their journey and to help them develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed in life.
Rita Support Educator

I have been working at Carrum Downs Early Learning since 2017 as an educator across different role in different rooms.

Currently my role is a reliever which I am thoroughly enjoying as I am able to spend time with all the children throughout the centre. Over my time I have established a positive relationship with the children and their families and I have had the great joy of observing the children’s development from the babies in the Nursery through to 4 and 5 year olds in the Kinder room.

Having brought up 3 of my own children and watching them develop into young adults, the opportunity to work in the early years has enabled me to turn my passion into a rewarding and fulfilling career. I feel very proud to be part of a team where we can work together and provide a special learning environment where children can reach goals and let their personalities shine.
Kyah Support Educator

Hi, my name is Kyah, I have been working in the early childhood sector since the start of 2025 and hold a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.

Before and alongside my work in childcare, I have gained over 4 years of babysitting experience with many different families and children. This experience has allowed me to develop strong relationships with children of all ages and personalities, including children with additional needs. I have always enjoyed being someone children can feel comfortable, safe and supported around.

Working with children is something I genuinely enjoy and feel passionate about. I love being able to make a difference in children’s lives, whether that is helping them achieve a new milestone, comforting them when they need reassurance, joining in their imaginative play or simply being there to celebrate the little moments with them.

I hope to continue growing my knowledge and experience as an educator while creating positive and meaningful experiences for every child I work with.
Chloe Centre Chef

I am the Centre Chef and take great pride in creating nutritious, delicious meals for the children each day. I am passionate about my role and enjoy preparing food that supports children’s growth, wellbeing, and enjoyment at mealtimes. I previously worked at this centre for 14 years and am so happy to have returned, continuing to be part of a community I value so much.

As a mother of six children, cooking has always been a big part of my everyday life. Food and family are deeply embedded in who I am, especially with my Italian heritage where cooking, sharing meals, and bringing people together are at the heart of family life.

I am committed to maintaining high standards of hygiene, safety, and care in the kitchen while creating meals that are both healthy and enjoyable for everyone.
Sandra Kitchen-hand

Hi, I’m Sandra and when I was 16 years old I started my journey in Early Childhood and this was my career for 34 years until I became a support worker for the NDIS.

Recently I spent a year travelling around Australia for before returning home to my two grown children. But, most excitingly, I have become a grandma! At home I enjoy cooking and baking for family and friends.

Joining the Carrum Downs Early Learning Centre family in 2026, I enjoy working in the kitchen where I am proud to provide a nutritious variety of foods for all the children in the Centre.