Centre Managers are the heart of our centres, ensuring that every room runs smoothly, and every child receives the best start in life. To support our Centre Managers in this vital role, we’ve developed Thrive – our specialised leadership program designed to empower teams to function effectively and smoothly.
After months of successful implementation, we are excited to share how Thrive has transformed our Centre Managers’ ability to lead, manage, and create thriving environments across all 190 centres nationwide.
Changing the way we support our teams
Thrive is more than a training program; it’s a toolkit placed in every room. It gives our Educators clear systems, guidance, and processes. Thrive includes seven modules that cover team building, safety management, program development, and building relationships with children and families.
Thrive is about embedding a way of working that allows educators to feel confident, successful, and happy in their roles. It’s not a tick-box exercise or merely a list of tasks. With Thrive, we’re celebrating the amazing work our teams are doing while also helping them grow stronger every day.
Why Thrive is essential for Centre Managers
Thrive is a game changer for Centre Managers, providing you with the tools and support needed to lead a stable, committed team that creates a nurturing environment where children and staff flourish. With Thrive, you’ll master effective delegation and teamwork, building a high-performing culture that drives your centre’s success.
Experience a smoother workday with clear communication, a capable team, and more time to focus on your leadership growth and key priorities. The Thrive leadership framework allows you to adapt quickly and confidently to your role, offering the support and guidance you need to succeed—no guesswork involved. After months of success, we are excited to share how Thrive has made a difference and announce that it is now expanding to all our 190 centres across the country.
A proven success story
Since its start, Thrive has changed the way we support our teams. Designed to empower over 830 Lead Educators and Teachers, Thrive has improved team management, safety protocols, and educational quality. Here are some results:
- 83% of our centres have completed the first two modules, giving educators the tools to manage their teams and daily operations effectively.
- Our Thrive Live sessions, attended by over 1,000 educators in 2024, have built a culture of peer recognition and mentorship.
- 840 peer recognitions were recorded through the “You’re Thriving” initiative, celebrating excellence and dedication in our community.
Savita from Victoria shares her experience:
“Thrive has boosted the confidence and empowerment of our room leaders and team members. They now work better together, feel more supported, and have identified areas for growth—all of which have improved our centre’s overall performance.”
Trudi Schenko, Gracelands NSW, adds:
“Thrive has made a big difference for both me as an Educational Leader and for our Centre. It has given me better tools to support and guide my team, making it easier to mentor and coach them effectively with clear expectations. I feel more confident in my role, and it has helped me create a culture where everyone wants to keep learning and improving.”
Why Thrive makes Guardian an employer of choice
Our goal with Thrive is to create an environment where our Educators feel valued and supported. When our team members thrive, so do the children and families we serve. Choosing Guardian means joining a community that cares about your growth and values your contributions. Thrive shows our dedication to creating a workplace where you can excel and feel valued. Here’s why Thrive makes us an employer of choice:
Personal growth and development: Thrive offers continuous learning opportunities to help you grow your skills and career at Guardian.
Recognition and rewards: Through initiatives like “You’re Thriving,” we celebrate your achievements and dedication.
Supportive environment: Our toolkit and Thrive Live sessions provide the support and resources you need to succeed.
Collaborative community: Thrive helps you connect with peers, share ideas, and grow together.
Work-life balance: We care about your well-being, offering programs and resources to help you maintain a healthy balance between work and life.
- “It is great to have Thrive; it has expanded our knowledge on leadership and personal growth. Thank you!” — Rosemarie, Educator
- “Thrive has inspired some really insightful, vulnerable conversations that have allowed my team and the Team Leads to connect authentically across the rooms to strengthen our support network.” — Taila, Lead Educator
- “Not only did Thrive benefit the Educators in my team, but it also helped strengthen my leadership skills, especially in the way I communicate with others, give and receive feedback and show my support as a leader, colleague and friend.” — Trudi, Lead Educator
Integral to our commitment to excellence
Thrive is a key part of Guardian’s plan to become a place people love to be. We focus on hiring and keeping the best Educators, valuing them, and creating a supportive and engaging work environment. Thrive is our most important initiative this year—possibly the most important one we’ve launched. By providing our Lead Educators and Teachers with tools to foster calm, organised, and effective days, we’re not just supporting Educators; we’re improving outcomes for children and families.
At Guardian, your growth and well-being are our top priorities. Thrive is just one of the many ways we invest in our people, ensuring you have the resources and support needed to excel in your role. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or just starting your career in early childhood education, Thrive provides the foundation for your professional and personal development.
Interested in being part of our thriving community as a childcare Centre Manager? Search for a role and discover how Guardian can be the perfect place for you to grow and make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families.
