Helensburgh can boast one of the oldest childcare centres in the Illawarra. And on Wednesday children and early learning educators celebrated its 40th birthday.
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Big Fat Smile’s Helensburgh Community Preschool is older than the actual organisation having previously been run by Wollongong City Council.
Big Fat Smile chair David Campbell recalled handling paperwork for the preschool when he was a member of council staff. He could recall when it was transferred to Illawarra Children's Services and noted the significant role it has played in the Helensburgh community for four decades. He told the children how he feels he has come full circle with the provider of early education, care, recreation, cultural and inclusion services.
Chief executive Jenni Hutchins said providing family-centred early learning and care to children for 40 years was an extraordinary milestone. Ms Hutchins reflected on the dedication and commitment of staff over the decades including one who has presently worked at the centre for 20 years.
Centre director Jane Morgan said she had the privilege of leading a team of dedicated, professional and highly qualified educators committed to early education in the Helensburgh community.
“We believe that it is our role as early childhood educators to encourage a lifelong love of learning,” she said.
Greg Ellis
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
