Slade Point
OUR TEAM
Discover why My School Child Care & Kindergarten in Slade Point, Mackay, is the premier choice for your child’s early learning journey!
Introducing Fiona, our exceptional Director, who is the best we’ve ever had in Mackay. With a wealth of experience in early childhood education, Fiona is passionate about fostering a nurturing and stimulating environment for children. Her leadership, dedication, and enthusiasm ensure that every child receives top-quality care and education.
Our remarkable management team includes Hayley B, our wonderful Educational Leader, and Meesha, our amazing Assistant Director. Hayley brings extensive knowledge and expertise, ensuring our educational programs meet the highest standards. Meesha’s dedication and support help create a smoothly running and welcoming environment for all families and staff. We are also proud to have Sam, the best Kindy Teacher in Mackay, who brings exceptional skills and a deep passion for early childhood education.
At My School Child Care & Kindergarten in Slade Point, Mackay, our team of dedicated educators is committed to delivering outstanding care and education for your children. We understand that choosing the right child care center can be a daunting task, which is why we strive to provide you with confidence in our exceptional staff and services.
Fiona, our Director, leads our team with unparalleled expertise and enthusiasm. Her commitment to creating a nurturing and stimulating environment helps every child grow, develop, and explore. Alongside Fiona, Hayley B, and Meesha ensure that our educators provide individual attention and care to support each child’s success.
We invite you to visit and meet our fantastic team. Our friendly staff members are ready to answer your questions and provide a tour of our purpose-built facilities. By partnering with families, we aim to achieve the best possible outcomes for your child’s learning and development.
Join our wonderful community at My School Child Care & Kindergarten Slade Point, Mackay! For more information, visit our website: My School Child Care & Kindergarten Slade Point.
My School Child Care & Kindergarten – Management Team
Fiona Turton
Hello, my name is Fiona, and I am the Nominated Supervisor at My School Child Care & Kindergarten in Slade Point, Mackay. I have been a part of this organization since the day we opened and have held various positions such as Nursery Manager and Assistant Director. I took a step back from my duties after having my third child, but I continued to work as lunch cover.
With 15 years of experience in the Child Care industry, I have seen firsthand the difference that high-quality care and education can make in a child’s life. It is my passion to provide a nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.
At My School Child Care and Kindergarten, we strive to create a sense of community and belonging for both children and families. I believe in building strong relationships with families and working together to support each child’s unique needs and interests.
I am grateful for the opportunity to work with such a dedicated and caring team of educators. Together, we are committed to providing the best possible care and education for each and every child who comes through our doors.
I am thankful to Mel and Brian for their unwavering support and confidence in me as I fulfill my role as Nominated Supervisor. It is a privilege to be a part of the My School family and to have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the children and families we serve.
Meesha Richard-Preston
Hello,
My name is Meesha, and I’m excited to share my dedication to fostering excellence in early childhood education at My School Child Care & Kindergarten in Slade Point, Mackay. As the Assistant Director and a seasoned educator, I bring over 13 years of experience to our community.
In my role as the Assistant Director, I am committed to maintaining a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for the children in our care. Since joining the team in August 2022, I have been actively involved in enhancing our educational programs and providing crucial support to our educators to ensure the highest quality of care and learning experiences.
As the Assistant Director, my primary responsibilities include overseeing the development and implementation of educational programs across the centre in collaboration with our dedicated team of educators. Recognizing the significance of a child‘s early years in shaping their lifelong learning journey, I am devoted to tailoring educational programs that cater to each child’s unique needs and abilities.
In addition to my role as Assistant Director, I play a key part in the centre‘s Quality Improvement Plan, focusing on continuous improvement and implementing best practices for the benefit of our children. This involves working closely with our team of educators to effectively implement planning cycles, ensuring children’s learning and development align with the approved learning frameworks.
At My School Slade Point, we offer two distinctive programs: the Indoor Program and the Outdoor Program, completed weekly. These programs serve as platforms for educators to plan and document children’s learning experiences and activities. We actively encourage families to contribute by sharing photos, stories, and current interests, fostering a collaborative approach to providing the best learning experiences for every child.
In conclusion, I am dedicated to ensuring that our children receive exceptional learning experiences within a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment. Should you have any questions, queries, or input regarding our educational programs or your child’s learning journey, please feel free to reach out to me via Storypark or see me in the Office or Reception. Your active involvement is valued as we work together to create an enriching educational experience for your child
Educational Leader
Hayley Bartos
Hello there!
My name is Hayley, and I am thrilled to be part of the My School Child Care & Kindergarten family in Slade Point, Mackay, since January 2017. As a mother of two, I have taken breaks from working at the center, but my deep connection to this incredible community always draws me back. It’s a special place for me, especially since both of my children now attend My School, strengthening my bond with this nurturing environment.
Before joining My School, I worked as a cheerleading and dance coach, which allowed me to engage with children in a fun and creative way. My passion for early childhood education led me to complete my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care during my schooling years. Once I started working at My School, I knew I had found my calling. This passion drove me to further my education and complete my Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care.
Over the years, I have gained invaluable experience working with children of all ages and in various rooms. This journey has helped me develop a profound understanding of each child‘s unique needs and interests. I’ve held multiple roles, from float staff and assistant to Lead Educator in the Nursery and Pre Kindy room. Currently, I am honored to serve as the Educational Leader.
As an Educational Leader, I am committed to creating an inclusive learning environment that caters to the individual needs of each child. I ensure that our educators have the support and resources they need to guide and nurture your children to the best of their abilities, helping each child reach their full learning potential.
To me, childcare is more than just a job. It’s about creating a second home and family for children, where they feel safe, secure, and supported in their learning journey. Every child is unique and deserves to be treated with love, care, and respect. My priority is to provide a nurturing environment that allows children to grow and thrive while building strong relationships with their families.
Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s early education. I look forward to meeting you and your little ones and to contributing to their growth and development at My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Slade Point, Mackay.
My School Child Care & Kindergarten – Lead Educators
KINDERGARTEN
Samantha O’Neill
Hello, my name is Sam,
As your qualified Kindergarten Teacher, I recognise the critical importance of the first five years in a child‘s life for learning, development, and building resilience. Hence, I am dedicated to providing the children in my care with the best possible start in life. My School Child Care & Kindergarten in Slade Point, Mackay is an ideal place for me to continue my professional journey because it aligns with my values and commitment to offering high-quality education and care for young children.
In my role, I aim to establish a safe and positive learning environment that encourages children to explore and experiment with new ideas, develop their social and emotional skills, and build their self-esteem and confidence. Acknowledging that every child is unique with their own interests, needs, and strengths, I work diligently to tailor my teaching approach to meet each child’s individual needs.
I am also dedicated to fostering strong relationships with parents and caregivers, recognizing that collaboration and communication are key to supporting children‘s learning and development. I regularly provide feedback to families about their child’s progress and am always available to discuss any concerns or questions they may have.
In addition to our commitment to high-quality education and care, My School Child Care & Kindergarten in Slade Point proudly runs the Queensland Government Approved Kindergarten Program. This program offers the best of both worlds, combining the accessibility of Long Day Care hours with the conveniences of Kindergarten. It ensures that children receive comprehensive early childhood education in a supportive and enriching environment.
In summary, I am grateful for the opportunity to work with the team at My School Child Care and Kindergarten and to contribute to the growth and development of the children in my care. I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and look forward to working with the families and children in the Kindy room
PRE KINDY
Jazmine Passfield
Hello! My name is Jazmine, and I am thrilled to be a part of the My School Child Care & Kindergarten family in Slade Point, Mackay. Watching our little ones grow and thrive brings me immense joy.
I began my journey in early childhood education by completing my Certificate III while still in high school. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for working with children. In 2021, I joined the My School team and continued my professional development by completing my Diploma. I am currently working as a float, providing support across different rooms until my maternity leave, where I will take some time away from work to focus on my growing family.
I firmly believe that the first five years of a child’s life are critical for their physical, emotional, and intellectual development. As an educator, I am committed to creating an environment that fosters growth and exploration. I believe in the power of interest-based and play-based learning, allowing children to follow their curiosity and providing them with the time, space, and safety to develop their independence.
Every child is a unique individual, and I recognize that learning looks different for each child. I believe in honoring and respecting their individuality and supporting them in expressing themselves in their own way. When children exhibit "difficult" behaviors, I see it as an opportunity for open-ended conversations, helping them develop self-care and problem-solving skills.
At My School, we are fortunate to have a diverse group of educators with a wide range of ideas, experiences, and backgrounds. This diversity enriches our learning environments, providing a wealth of knowledge and perspectives. I am proud to be a part of this dynamic team, constantly learning and growing alongside my colleagues.
I am truly excited to be a part of your child’s learning and development journey at My School Child Care & Kindergarten in Slade Point, Mackay. Together, we will create a nurturing and engaging environment where your child can thrive.
Eve Doull
Hi there, it‘s lovely to meet you all! My name is Eve Doull, and I’m excited to share more about myself with you. I am a proud local of Mackay, and I grew up surrounded by the love and warmth of a large Torres Strait Islander family. It is in this nurturing environment that my passion for educating children began to flourish, and it has only grown stronger over time.
I’ve been a part of the child care industry for three wonderful years now, starting my journey as a trainee at My School Child Care & Kindergarten in Slade Point, Mackay while still completing my schooling. Since then, I have been fortunate enough to progress to a permanent part-time position while also pursuing my Diploma.
One of the things that I find the most fulfilling about working with children is watching them develop and grow over time. I take great pride in being a part of their journey as they become more confident, independent, and curious little individuals who are eager to learn and explore their environment. As an educator, I believe that building strong, trusting relationships with each child is essential to creating a positive and supportive learning environment that nurtures and encourages their development.
As I continue my journey in the childcare industry, my goal is to keep expanding my knowledge and experience, while providing the highest quality care and education for each child in my care. I am dedicated to creating a learning environment that fosters creativity, curiosity, and a lifelong love for learning, and I’m excited to continue to do so at My School Child Care and Kindergarten.
JNR KINDY
Donna Vincent
I am thrilled to share some exciting news and personally introduce myself as a proud member of the My School Child Care & Kindergarten team at Slade Point.
My name is Donna, and I’ve recently returned to My School after spending the last two years working as a Child Service worker for OSHC (Out of School Hours Care). With a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and extensive experience in the field, I am genuinely grateful to be a part of this wonderful team.
Originally from New Zealand, I made the beautiful country of Australia my home 13 years ago. I am happily married and a proud mother of five amazing adult sons. Additionally, I am blessed to be a grandmother to twelve wonderful grandchildren.
My journey in childcare began many years ago when my own children attended a play centre service. Witnessing their growth and development fueled my passion for working with children. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with children of all age groups, serving as a teacher aid, an inclusion support worker for children with learning difficulties, and an educator.
I strongly believe that each child is a unique individual deserving of respect and kindness. Building strong, individualized relationships is at the core of my approach. Spending one-on-one time with each child allows me to foster connections and deepen bonds, bringing me great joy.
I am genuinely excited to be back at My School and to work alongside the children, contributing to their growth and development. It’s a privilege to be a part of this nurturing environment, and I look forward to creating lasting memories and positive experiences for the children at My School Child Care & Kindergarten.
Thank you for the warm welcome, and I am eager to embark on this journey with the incredible team at My School!
Kirra Barratt
TODDLERS
Renee Godfrey
Renee Godfrey is an experienced Lead Educator at My School Child Care & Kindergarten in Slade Point, Mackay. She brings a wealth of experience to her role, having first started working in the childcare field in 1997. With her passion for early childhood education, Renee is dedicated to providing the highest level of care for the children in her care.
As a mother of four grown-up children, Renee understands the importance of providing a nurturing and supportive environment for young children. Her years of experience have helped her to develop an exceptional understanding of child development, and she uses this knowledge to provide a range of exciting and inspiring learning experiences for the children in her care.
One of the things that Renee loves most about working in childcare is watching the children grow and develop to their potential. She finds it incredibly rewarding to be able to support and guide the children in her care as they reach their milestones and achieve their goals. Renee is always looking for new and innovative ways to engage the children in her care and to help them explore the world around them.
As the Lead Educator in the Toddler Room at MySchool Child Care & Kindergarten, Renee is responsible for providing a safe and nurturing environment where children can learn and grow. She is dedicated to ensuring that each child receives the individual attention and support they need to thrive, and she works closely with families to develop strong relationships based on open communication and mutual trust.
Renee is a valued member of the team at MySchool Child Care & Kindergarten Slade Point, Mackay. Her passion for early childhood education, her years of experience, and her commitment to providing the highest level of care make her an exceptional Lead Educator. The children in her care are fortunate to have such a caring and talented educator guiding them as they learn and grow.
NURSERY
Annieke Honicke
My name is Annieke, and I am excited to be a part of the My School Child Care & Kindergarten in Slade Point, Mackay team, where I work as an Early Childhood Educator in the Kindy room.
As a proud mother of two children myself, I understand how important it is to provide a nurturing and supportive environment for your little ones. I have always had a soft spot for children, which led me to pursue a career in child care. In 2019, I completed my Certificate lll in Early Childhood Education and Care and discovered my passion for teaching young children during my practical placement.
In February 2021, I joined the My School team as a casual relief staff member and eventually completed my certificate at the end of the same year. In 2022, I moved to the Junior Kindy room and pursued my Diploma through My School. And now, I am excited to be working in the Kindy room, where I get to help children prepare for Prep while continuing my study for my Diploma.
Working with children during their early years is a fulfilling experience for me. It gives me the opportunity to make a positive impact on their learning journey, which sets the foundation for their future. I strongly believe that building secure, trusting, and loving relationships with children is key to their success in the early years. It’s my goal to create meaningful relationships with your children, provide them with the best learning opportunities and experiences, and give them a great head start in their learning.
I am thrilled to be a part of your child‘s learning journey, and I look forward to getting to know both you and your child better. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I am always here to support you and your child in any way that I can.
Thank you for entrusting us with the care of your child.
Tyler Johnson
Hello, my name is Tyler and I am excited to share more about myself and my passion for early childhood education. I have been a part of the child care industry for several years, and it all started when I began coaching gymnastics while still training as a gymnast. Witnessing the children I coached achieving their goals was an incredible feeling, and it sparked my love for working with kids.
I have been with My School Child Care & Kindergarten in Slade Point, Mackay since April of 2021, and I am proud to say that I completed my Certificate 3 in Early Childhood and Care through the centre in November of 2022. Throughout my time here, I have had the opportunity to work in various rooms, starting as a float before becoming an assistant educator in the toddler room and now working as an assistant educator in the Nursery. This has given me a well-rounded experience working with children of different ages and developmental stages.
As an educator, my top priority is to provide a safe, calm, and fun learning environment for every child in my care. I believe that each child deserves to have a space where they feel comfortable to learn, grow and express themselves. It is my goal to create such an environment for every child at My School, where they can explore, discover, and build positive relationships with their peers and educators.
I take great pride in my work and am always seeking opportunities to enhance my skills and knowledge in the early childhood education field. Being a part of the My School team has allowed me to do just that, and I look forward to continuing to grow and learn with this amazing centre.
My School Child Care & Kindergarten – Early Childhood Educators
Abbie Quinn
Hello Families,
My name is Abbie Quinn, and I am thrilled to be part of the My School Child Care & Kindergarten team at Slade Point, Mackay. I am currently studying for my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, and I am eager to dive into my passion for childcare within such a wonderful and supportive community.
I believe that creating a safe and nurturing environment for children is paramount. My goal is to always have the best interests of the children in mind, ensuring they feel valued and cared for while they learn and grow.
In addition to my dedication to early childhood education, I am an active individual who loves staying engaged in physical activities. When I am not working, you will typically find me on the touch football field. I have a deep-rooted interest in sports and have been playing touch football for the past three years. Before transitioning to touch football, I spent 15 years in competitive dancing, which taught me discipline, teamwork, and the joy of movement—qualities I bring into my work with children.
I am excited to bring my energy, enthusiasm, and dedication to the My School Child Care & Kindergarten community. I look forward to building strong relationships with the children and their families and contributing to a positive, enriching environment for everyone.
Thank you for welcoming me into your community. I am excited to meet you and your little ones and to begin this rewarding journey together.
Abby Garred
Hello Families,
My name is Abby Garred, and I am absolutely thrilled to be working at My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Slade Point, Mackay! Originally from Belmont, NSW, I grew up on a property in the Hunter Valley with my brother and two sisters. In 2019, I moved to Mackay and attended Northern Beaches State High School.
I began my journey in early childhood education in 2021 at Moreton Drive Early Learning. After a brief break, I realised my eagerness to return to this fulfilling field, and I am so glad to have found my place at My School Child Care & Kindergarten.
Working with children is my passion, and I find it to be an incredibly rewarding job. There’s nothing more fulfilling than contributing to a child’s growth and development. I am currently working towards completing my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and am excited to become a fully qualified childcare educator.
Being part of the team at My School Child Care & Kindergarten has been an amazing experience. The supportive environment, wonderful team, and fantastic children make it the perfect place for me to grow and develop my skills further.
I am committed to creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for your children. I look forward to meeting your families and working together to support your child’s early learning journey.
Aleishia Orenshaw
Introducing Aleishia, one of our dedicated trainees at My School Child Care & Kindergarten in Slade Point, Mackay. Aleishia started her journey in childcare with us in August 2021 and is currently studying for her Cert III in Early Childhood Education. She has previously worked in aged care and disability care, where she found joy in supporting vulnerable people but wanted to work in a happier environment.
Aleishia was raised in Airlie Beach with her parents, older sister, and younger brother before moving to Mackay with her current partner for better opportunities. She feels privileged and proud to be a part of My School, where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.
At My School, Aleishia is passionate about caring for and nurturing children. She understands the importance of empathy and support and brings these qualities to her role. As she nears the end of her studies, she is excited to continue growing and learning alongside the children and families at our centre. We are lucky to have such a dedicated and caring team member on board.
Alleera Beckmann
Hello everyone,
I‘m Alleera, but you can call me Miss Ally. I’m thrilled to be part of the My School Child Care & Kindergarten family, particularly at Slade Point. Outside of work, you’ll often find me indulging in my passions for camping, fishing, and assisting my partner with car projects.
Though I‘m still relatively early in my journey with My School, I’ve been immersed in early childhood education for the past two years and am delighted to continue this path here. My commitment to My School is long-term, as I find immense joy and fulfillment in nurturing young minds.
Becoming an auntie at the age of 11 shaped my perspective on caring for children. I grew up closely involved with my niece, relishing in the opportunity to watch her grow and achieve every milestone. This experience instilled in me a deep sense of pride and confidence in my ability to connect with and care for children.
I firmly believe that every child is unique, and I am passionate about understanding and catering to their individual needs. Whether a child seeks comfort through cuddles or prefers space to self-regulate, I am committed to providing the support and guidance they require to flourish.
My goal is to build meaningful relationships with each child, learning about their interests, strengths, and challenges along the way. I am dedicated to using this knowledge to nurture their development into intelligent, confident individuals.
Please don‘t hesitate to stop by and say hello! I’m eager to meet you and your child and embark on this journey of growth and discovery together at My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Mt Slade Point.
Annalicia Bennett
Hello,
I‘m Annalicia, also known as Anna, and it’s a pleasure to connect with you. Currently, I’m deeply invested in advancing my education by pursuing my Certificate III in Child Care. My passion for child care is deeply rooted in my genuine love and dedication to nurturing and caring for children.
I firmly believe that every child deserves to be supported and encouraged to reach their full potential. Witnessing their growth, exploration, and learning journey brings me immense joy. Whether they’re taking their first steps or discovering new interests, I am committed to providing a nurturing environment where children feel loved, valued, and empowered to flourish.
My heart is devoted to the well-being of children, regardless of their age. My ultimate goal is to create a safe and stimulating environment where each child can thrive and reach for the stars.
Joining the team at My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Slade Point, Mackay, fills me with excitement. I am thrilled to collaborate with a team that shares my dedication to providing exceptional care and education to children. Together, we are committed to recognizing and celebrating the unique talents and abilities of each child.
Thank you for entrusting me to be a part of your child’s journey. I am eager to meet you and your little one, and I look forward to embarking on this wonderful adventure of growth and discovery together at My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Slade Point, Mackay.
Casey-May Suna
Hello there,
I‘m Casey-May, but you can call me Miss Casey or simply Casey. It’s a pleasure to introduce myself to you. My journey in the childcare industry began in 2019 when I embarked on my studies for Certificate III. In 2022, I furthered my qualifications by completing my Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care.
From a young age, I’ve always been drawn to nurturing and helping others. Growing up in the Atherton Tablelands and later moving to the small mining town of Clermont at the age of 10, community and support were deeply ingrained values. I thrive on creating safe and welcoming spaces, where everyone feels valued and supported.
In 2018, I relocated to the Mackay area, and it has been a wonderful experience filled with new friendships and opportunities. My journey in childcare began in 2019, driven by my passion for helping children grow and develop into independent individuals. Having played a significant role in raising my cousins‘ children, my love for education and care services only grew stronger over the years. I’ve come to understand the importance of early learning and the crucial role it plays in shaping a child’s future.
I firmly believe that children learn and grow best through play. That‘s why I strive to create fun, creative, and interactive learning experiences tailored to each child’s unique wants, needs, and interests.
Joining the My School team in late 2023 as a float was a turning point for me, especially as I was well into my pregnancy at the time. After working at various centers, I finally found a workplace where I felt a sense of belonging and support for my career aspirations. The caring and supportive environment at My School encouraged me to excel in my role and continuously improve my teaching methods.
After taking a few months to enjoy precious moments with my baby, both my child and I now attend My School, and I am grateful to be back. I’m excited about the opportunity to meet you and your children, as I continue to support their growth and development into amazing little individuals.
Thank you for considering My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Slade Point, Mackay, as a partner in your child’s early education journey. I look forward to welcoming you and your family into our wonderful community.
Ella Smith
Hello, I‘m Ella, and I’m delighted to be a part of My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Mt Slade Point. This marks the beginning of my journey in the childcare industry, and I am thrilled about the prospect of learning and growing within this rewarding career.
A bit about me:
I am a proud Mackay local, having spent my entire life here. I share my world with two sisters, one of whom is my twin. Prior to stepping into the childcare industry, my professional background involved hairdressing, and I served as the 2ic at a barber shop.
During my days off, I discovered my passion for working with kids while babysitting for a family friend. This experience ignited a newfound excitement and commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of children.
Joining My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Mt Slade Point is an exciting chapter for me. The welcoming atmosphere and commitment to providing high-quality care and education align with my values, and I look forward to contributing to the growth and development of the young minds entrusted to our care.
As I embark on this journey, I‘m eager to embrace the challenges and joys that come with the childcare industry. I am dedicated to creating a nurturing environment, fostering positive relationships, and continuously expanding my knowledge to provide the best possible care for the children at My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Mt Slade Point. Thank you for welcoming me into this incredible community, and I can’t wait to learn and grow with you all.
Haley Gillespie
Hello, my name is Hayley, and I am excited to expand on my passion for early childhood education. I have completed my Diploma and have been Early Childhood Educator for 17 years, and it has been a fulfilling and rewarding journey thus far. My love for children started at a young age, and it has only grown stronger with time.
As an educator, my top priority is creating a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for children to learn and grow. I believe in fostering a positive and respectful relationship with every child in my care, and I strive to make a meaningful difference in their lives. It is truly an honor to be a part of their learning journey and to help shape their future.
With three sons of my own, I have gained invaluable experience in child development, and I understand the importance of early childhood education. Since joining My School Child Care & Kindergarten in Slade Point, Mackay in June 2018, I have been able to build strong relationships with children and their families, which has been a rewarding experience.
I take great pride in my work, and I am constantly seeking new ways to improve and enhance the learning experience for the children in my care. I believe that learning should be fun and engaging, and I am committed to providing a stimulating environment where children can develop their skills and reach their full potential.
In conclusion, working with children is not just a job for me, but a lifelong passion. I am dedicated to providing the highest quality of care and education, and I look forward to continuing my journey in early childhood education.
Kelsi Baggow
Hello,
I‘m Kelsi, and I’ve been part of the Child Care industry for 8 years, holding my Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC). As a child, I always aspired to be a teacher, and during High School, I discovered that Early Childhood was where my true passion lay. I appreciate the ever-changing nature of each day in this field, with new and challenging experiences consistently shaping our journey.
Outside of work, my two children, Ari and Gia, keep me quite busy. Prioritizing my own health and self-care is essential as a parent, so I dedicate time each day to go to the gym or engage in some form of exercise.
Looking forward to being a part of the vibrant community at My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Slade Point, Mackay.
Lisa Vandenberg
My name is Lisa Vandenberg. I grew up in Sydney, New South Wales, and have always lived and worked in Sydney. I am a kind, caring, patient, and hardworking person, which I believe makes me a suitable candidate for working in this industry.
My early childhood journey began when I went to university in 2010 in Sydney, NSW, to obtain my degree. I always knew, even when I was in primary school, that I wanted to work with children as they bring me so much joy, and I love guiding their learning and education. It is something I have always been sure about. Before I entered university, I gained experience looking after and teaching children through my older brother‘s children, cousin’s children, and friends’ children.
After completing university, I was certain about my future career and started working in a childcare center in 2016 in Sydney, NSW. In 2020, I met my partner, and in late 2022, we decided to make the move to live in Queensland. I have enjoyed working with the older age group and am grateful to have experience with children of all ages between 0 and 5. I am excited about what my future holds and am looking forward to continuing to work with children of different ages.
In 2023, I worked for a private kindergarten center as the teacher of the room. I absolutely loved my experience, and it significantly helped boost my confidence. It was also a great introduction to Queensland education and the Queensland Kindergarten Learning Framework.
I am excited about joining the My School Family at My Child Care & Kindergarten – Slade Point.
Madalyne Borg
Maddy is an enthusiastic and dedicated educator who is passionate about working with children to help them learn and grow. She began her journey in the early childhood industry in 2019, working in another centre for 12 months before following her passion for cooking back into the hospitality industry. However, Maddy soon realized that her true passion lies in working with children and helping them to learn through play and experience. This led her back to the early childhood industry, and she joined My School Child Care and Kindergarten Slade Point, Mackay in September 2022.
Since joining My School, Maddy has completed her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and is planning to continue her studies shortly to complete her Diploma as well. She is committed to keeping her skills up to date and staying informed about the latest developments in early childhood education.
Maddy believes that the earliest years of a child’s life are crucial in shaping them into the adults they will become, and she is excited to be a part of that process. She is particularly passionate about working with children in Junior Kindy, where she can help them to develop their skills and knowledge through play-based learning experiences.
As an educator, Maddy is warm and nurturing, and she believes in creating a safe and supportive environment where children can explore, learn and grow. She is dedicated to building positive relationships with the children in her care and their families, and she looks forward to getting to know each and every one of them.
Maddison Sincock
Rebecca Coletti
Hi, I’m Rebecca, and I am proud to be a Childcare Educator here at My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Slade Point, Mackay.
Believing in doing what you love, I am passionate about early childhood development, which is why I am currently studying Cert III in Early Childhood Education & Care. Coming from a large and diverse family, I was raised in a mining town where I learned the importance of community in raising children. Infused with a great sense of fun, I find joy in bringing smiles to the faces of those around me, with kindness and respect forming the foundation of every relationship.
I understand that your children’s early years are crucial for nurturing their love of learning and fostering overall well-being in a caring and safe setting. My approach involves providing an invitingly fun and stimulating learning environment in a creative and active manner, recognizing that children learn through play. Creating a strong sense of belonging for each child, surrounded by positive energy, is key to their growth.
In my role as their care provider, I see every child as unique and special. I am committed to valuing and developing each child’s strengths, interests, skills, abilities, and knowledge. It is my privilege to contribute to the growth and development of your children at My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Slade Point, Mackay.
Sheridan Lawrance
Hello, I‘m Sheridan, and I’m thrilled to be an educator at My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Slade Point, Mackay, since November 2023. Currently, I am diligently working towards completing my Cert 3 in Child Care. At 18 years old, I am the eldest among my seven siblings, coming from a mixed family background.
My passion for family extends to my love for cooking, where I enjoy preparing meals for my family and assisting my mom in caring for my younger siblings. In my free time, I cherish moments spent with friends.
The decision to join My School was driven by my genuine love for working with kids. Being around them brings me immense happiness and joy, as I witness their learning and play, reminiscent of my own childhood experiences. My School has provided me with a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of these young minds, and I am eager to continue learning and growing in the childcare industry.
I’m truly grateful for the chance to be a part of My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Slade Point, Mackay, and I look forward to furthering my knowledge and experience in this fulfilling role.
Thomas Johnson
Hello Families,
My name is Thomas Johnson, and I am delighted to have recently returned to the My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Slade Point, Mackay team. It feels wonderful to be back in an environment that truly values the growth and development of each child.
I am currently pursuing my Certificate III in Childcare and bring with me roughly a year and a half of previous experience in the childcare industry. My journey with My School began in 2021, where I had the pleasure of working with many amazing children and families. After a brief hiatus to explore opportunities in the family business, I realized my true passion lies in early childhood education, and I am thrilled to be back.
I am excited to contribute to your child’s education and development. My goal is to create a supportive, nurturing, and stimulating environment where each child can explore, learn, and grow. I firmly believe in the importance of fostering a love for learning from a young age and am committed to helping children develop the skills they need to succeed.
Being part of the My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Slade Point, Mackay community is incredibly fulfilling. I look forward to working closely with you and your child, building strong relationships, and making a positive impact on their early education journey.
Thank you for welcoming me back, and I am excited about the possibilities ahead.
My School Child Care & Kindergarten – Centre Cook
Mary-Ann Suna
Hello Families,
My name is Maryann Suna, and I am delighted to be the cook at My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Slade Point, Mackay. With a passion for preparing nutritious and delicious meals, I am dedicated to ensuring that your children receive the best food to support their growth and development.
I am a proud mother of four adult children—three wonderful girls and one amazing boy. Additionally, I am blessed with a precious granddaughter whom I absolutely love and adore. Family means everything to me, and I cherish every moment spent with them.
Beyond the kitchen, I have a variety of interests that keep me inspired and joyful. I am an avid lover of butterflies, finding their beauty and transformation truly mesmerizing. I also have a passion for exploring new places, which fuels my creativity and brings new ideas into my cooking. Another hobby I deeply enjoy is sewing, especially creating patchwork quilts. The process of piecing together different fabrics into a cohesive and beautiful quilt brings me immense satisfaction.
One of my favorite pastimes is going out for meals with family and friends. It’s always a treat to enjoy a meal without having to cook it myself, and it provides a wonderful opportunity to connect and share stories with loved ones.
With previous experience in cooking for young children, I understand the importance of preparing healthy, balanced meals that cater to their developing needs. It is my mission to create meals that not only taste good but also provide the essential nutrients that growing bodies require.
At My School Child Care & Kindergarten - Slade Point, Mackay, I take great pride in my role and am committed to contributing to a nurturing and supportive environment. I look forward to continuing to serve your children and helping them thrive with wholesome, nutritious food.
Thank you for trusting me with the care of your children’s meals. I am excited to be a part of their daily lives and to watch them grow and flourish.