Hayley is the Centre Manager for Springfield, an open-plan centre which features herb and vegetable gardens, a passionfruit vine, a spacious veranda and natural play structures. Hayley took a few minutes out of her busy day to share insights on her career background, her education approach and a few fun facts.

Tell us about your time working in early childcare and education so far and what inspires you each day?

I began my career with Guardian at our Allara Street centre as a centre cook. I soon transitioned into a traineeship working with children, and I progressed through the ranks thanks to the support of my manager. In a very happy coincidence, my move to Queensland coincided with the opening of the Springfield centre, so I was able to join the team as an Educator. I was lucky to work closely with the Operations Manager, Katherine Lyttle and the QLD Curriculum Leader, Bronwyn Thomson, as well as a team of amazing Educators, who taught me so much. We had a shared vision of what we wanted to create, and a determination to create it. I am continually inspired by my team and strive to support them in creating an environment where children can feel confident, and the whole team has opportunities for growth.

What have you learnt about children during your early childcare and education career and how would you sum up your approach/passion to helping them on their learning, emotional, social and life journey?

Viewing children as capable and competent has always resonated strongly with me, and I believe that through this lens we can build genuine connections and relationships with children. Through these types of relationships we can explore and learn together, and the process is richer, and the learning more significant. Respectful relationships with children are the foundation of our centre. As we grow, these relationships grow with us. As a result, we have become increasingly connected to our community and local parklands. Our connection to nature has become a strong part of our centre identity and spaces at Springfield.

What are you most excited about working with children on/teaching children about and why?

I love working with children in a natural environment, as it offers endless learning opportunities. No excursion outdoors is ever the same, and I love stepping back and seeing what the children are drawn to, what they choose to collect and how they play. The changing nature of outdoor environments always sparks wonder and leads to amazing conversations as children develop their theories about complex natural phenomena.

5 quick fun facts about Hayley

1. I hold a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Psychology, and a Certificate IV in Professional Cookery.
2. Before working in early childhood I was a chef, calling the pass and cooking meals for up to 200 customers a day in a busy breakfast café. I still enjoy cooking in my spare time but still struggle to poach an egg.
3. I am the oldest child in my family, with a younger brother and two younger sisters. My parents and youngest sister live in New Zealand (where I was born), and the rest of us live in Australia. We still manage to get together at least a couple of times a year.
4. I am a bit of a nerd at heart and know more about the Harry Potter and Game of Thrones universes than most people expect.
5. On the weekends I enjoy spending time with my husband and son.