Community Kids Mount Gambier Early Education Centre has been recognised as South Australia\u2019s top-performing regional childcare centre, taking home the Regional State Winner title in the 2024 KindiCare Excellence Awards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Centre Manager Kerri Scherer credits the achievement to the passionate and caring team of educators and teachers who place children\u2019s wellbeing at the heart of everything they do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe value the experience and knowledge each team member brings and support each other to share and explore ideas,\u201d Kerri said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis creates a dynamic, enriching, and inclusive environment where children can thrive.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The centre\u2019s vibrant and diverse team celebrates children\u2019s differences, nurtures autonomy, and ensures every child\u2019s voice is heard, and a carefully crafted learning program supports children\u2019s growth and development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A standout feature of Community Kids Mount Gambier\u2019s learning program is the focus on fostering a sense of belonging. The centre\u2019s innovative activities, such as collaborative emotion journals and a cultural map of the world, encourage children to explore emotions and celebrate their cultural heritage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe cultural map is a constantly evolving project that invites children to share conversations about their backgrounds and learn about others,\u201d Kerri explained.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a wonderful way to highlight what makes us unique while also fostering connection.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The centre also emphasises building connections within the local community through engaging incursions and excursions. Highlights include musical collaborations with Mount Gambier High School and a heartwarming kindness initiative with a local hospital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe children have had the chance to play instruments and enjoy live orchestra performances at the high school, which has been an incredible experience,\u201d Kerri said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThey\u2019ve also created and delivered drawings to hospital patients and nurses, spreading joy and kindness throughout the community.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The educators and teachers at Community Kids Mount Gambier also have the opportunity to benefit from G8 Education\u2019s robust training hub, which offers extensive professional development resources. This commitment to learning ensures fresh and innovative ideas are continually integrated into their teaching practices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reflecting on the centre\u2019s award win, Kerri said, \u201cWe are proud to reflect on the practices that brought us here and we are excited to explore new possibilities for the future.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The KindiCare Excellence Awards celebrate the top performing early childhood education and care centres across Australia. Community Kids Mount Gambier\u2019s recognition is a testament to the centre\u2019s outstanding work, and G8 Education celebrates the team\u2019s continued success in fostering a nurturing and educational environment for its community\u2019s families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n