Gillian – Active Kids Bondi Service Coordinator

A Little About Gillian

I have been working in  the Early Childhood Sector for 4 years now. I graduated with a Bacherlor (HONS) in Early Years and Childhood Studies back home in Ireland leading me to be considered as an ECT here in Australia. The choice to work in this sector was easy one for me. Being the eldest of 3 sisters & lots of cousins I was always around young children and always relied on to babysit them which I always enjoyed doing. I would even be considered the “mother” of my friends group so a career in this area was always on the cards.

In 2018 I decided to leave my home in Ireland and move to Australia to some friends that were already here. I started my time in Australia in Perth for 6 months and then made my way over to Sydney. It was here that I decided I could see myself having a life in Australia. I was very fortunate to be hired by Active Kids as the Room Leader for the BumbleBee (1-2yrs) Room in Bondi. My good fortune continued with them sponsoring me to stay here in Australia as well as affording me the opportunity to progress into the roll of 3IC and now into the role as Joint Coordinator.

I feel very fortunate to be apart of such a crucial time in every child’s life and development. One of the most important parts of our jobs I feel is creating an environment where every child feels safe and secure. This in turn leads to them feeling confident enough to not only explore the environment but to begin exploring themselves and their own interests, all the while knowing that they have our support and encouragement to fall back on. I am very proud of the string bonds and relationships that I have built with both the children and families during my time here at Bondi and I hope to continue and build on these in my new role.

Outside of work, I enjoy relaxing in my free time as busy work days can be hectic. I also love to get stuck into a good series on Netflix and go and about for dinner and drinks with my partner and friends. The weather here in Australia is also a major bonus!