An educator of six years at the preschool, Karen decided to study early childhood teaching as a mature-aged student after her own children had grown up.

“I always wanted to do it when I was younger,” she said.

“I love children; I just think they’re such sponges. It’s such a beautiful age; they’re so caring, giving and so open.”

Karen has had a great impact during her time with the centre, helping to introduce innovative initiatives such as teaching special needs children through the use of sign language. 

Even before she became an educator, Karen has had a long-standing involvement with the preschool.

Two of her sons attended the centre, and she has held positions of president and secretary on the board.

“This is a beautiful preschool,” she said. “We’re inclusive of all children and our partnerships with families are wonderful.” 

She feels that it is most important to ensure the children are safe, secure and supported and allowed to have their voices heard.

“Their voices are just as important as ours,” she said. 

“They respond really well when they’re given that opportunity.”

Karen said she was shocked and a bit emotional when she was told she had been nominated for the award.

“I think to be recognised by your peers in your job is just amazing,” she said. “I’m always happy to come to work.”

Officer administrator at the centre Hayley Wright nominated Karen up for the award, and said she is “just awesome”.

“She would do anything for this preschool,” Hayley said.

“She puts so much effort in.”

Now in its 12th year, the Australian Family Early Education and Care Awards is the sector’s peak awards for the early year’s education sector. 

Each received nomination is reviewed by a distinguished panel of professionals from the early childhood sector to determine the finalists on April 18, 2016.