This year’s Early Childhood Educator Day featured the theme "Embracing Diversity Has Early Beginnings", celebrating the vital role early childhood educators play in fostering inclusivity and understanding from a young age. Our educators don't just teach children—they help shape compassionate, empathetic individuals by embracing and celebrating each child's unique background, culture, and abilities. At Gowrie NSW, we believe this commitment to diversity is the foundation for creating a better, more inclusive future.
To mark this special day, we invited families to share their stories of appreciation through Educator Appreciation Forms, and the response was overwhelming! Hundreds of families expressed deep gratitude for educators like Patty, who supported Zac’s speech development, and Sunny and Stef, who creatively nurtured Mieka’s individuality and strengths. Kate was recognised for making Niamh feel safe and connected, and Jess was praised for her exceptional leadership in Dubbo, ensuring children and families always felt heard.
These stories—and many more—highlight how our educators embrace and celebrate the diversity of each child, helping them grow in an environment that honours who they are. The appreciation extended beyond words, with educators receiving handmade gifts, flowers, chocolates, and thoughtful cards from families, making the day even more special.
The importance of our educators goes far beyond teaching. They are mentors, role models, and champions of diversity, ensuring that each child feels valued, supported, and seen. Their influence extends past the classroom, laying the groundwork for children to appreciate the richness of diversity in their communities. By embracing and celebrating differences, they help shape a more inclusive world, one child at a time.
While Early Childhood Educator Day is a moment to pause and celebrate, our gratitude for these dedicated professionals doesn’t stop at just one day. Their ongoing commitment to embracing diversity, supporting children, and fostering a love of learning is something we honour daily. Every day, our educators lead with passion and dedication, making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families alike.
At Gowrie NSW, we are incredibly proud to stand beside such a talented team of educators who bring this year’s theme of "Embracing Diversity Has Early Beginnings" to life. Their tireless efforts in creating inclusive, nurturing environments for every child are truly inspiring.
Thank you to all our educators for your unwavering commitment to celebrating diversity and for the profound difference you make each and every day!
"Jess is a fantastic Director for the Dubbo service and has been a consistent leader through some really tricky times. As a parent, it is never a problem to go to Jess to express concerns or raise issues. Jess' experience and knowledge of the industry is evident and we appreciate what you continue to do."
"Liss is such an amazing educatorand an exceptional leader/mentor for all the carers in the nursery rooms. We felt so confident from the moment we met Liss that Gowrie was right for Theodore. Liss is so caring and knowledgeable on all things babies/toddlers/childhood. She has been so supportive through tougher times with Theodore, and we feel a lot wiser for all the little things we have learnt from Liss too! We feel so lucky to have Theodore under her care. Thanks Liss for everything you do!
"For a long time now, you have been a safe space for Sully, and we know he feels good with your presence. Thank you for your patience and dedication, for all this time."
"We are very grateful to have Patty as Zac's primary educator. She is very caring, hard-working, and friendly. Zac has built a great relationship with Patty. She has worked hard to help Zac develop his speech and to develop well overall. She also took a keen interest when Zac's Speech Therapist came to visit the centre to give the staff tips, great to see her so supportive of Zac and the children. She does what she can to help the children be happy and develop healthily"
Narelle is such a kind, caring and incredibly diligent educator. She really knows my son well and is continually doing her best to cater to him and his needs. She provides excellent opportunities for him to learn new and practices known concepts. Dion really loves Miss Narelle and it shows in his affection towards her as well as his constant references to her at home. Thank you Narelle for your efforts! You are always appreciated in the Deligianis household
"Thank you, Sunny, for your care and commitment as Mieka's teacher this year. We appreciate the creative ideas you come up with to engage Mieka, tapping into the things she is passionate about. Thank you for going over and above in supporting her and your patience in navigating her quirks! We are very grateful."
"Katie provides such a calm, nurturing atmosphere. She seems to love her role as an educator and notices all the little things about each child.
Thank you Katie and the entire team for helping to make daycare a place Stella now loves to go to each day"
"We are so grateful for Stef. She has always gone above and beyond to support Mieka's development and help us navigate the resources available outside of pre-school. Stef has been super proactive in ensuring Mieka has the best possible start to kindergarten. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your care and passion."
"Kate always makes Niamh feel comfortable, safe and a part of her own learning experiences. Knowing how much Niamh loves Kate and her other friends at daycare makes me happy as a parent. Thanks Kate and Gowrie Mayfield for being there for my daughter."