At Gowrie NSW’s Malabar Early Education and Care, the journey to achieving an "Exceeding" rating has been extraordinary. The rating reflects not only high standards but a vibrant team culture, effective leadership, and unwavering commitment to quality early education. Let’s take a look at what makes Malabar a shining example and how their approach can inspire other services, educators, and families.
The team culture at Malabar is a vibrant mix of collaboration, inclusivity, and continuous professional growth. “We’re dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where both children and staff feel valued and supported,” says Centre Director Payal Naidu. This commitment is evident in every aspect of their work, from open communication to mutual respect, ensuring a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
Creating and maintaining this positive culture isn’t just about good intentions; it’s about actionable strategies. At Malabar, regular team-building activities and professional development opportunities are cornerstones. "Celebrating individual and team achievements is key to keeping everyone motivated and recognised,” Payal says. Regular staff meetings and informal gatherings also play a crucial role, helping to keep communication channels open and fostering a strong community spirit.
Ensuring that every team member feels valued and heard is a priority at Malabar. The centre promotes an open-door policy, encourages one-on-one check-ins, and provides a suggestion box for anonymous feedback. "It’s important that everyone knows their voice matters,” she continues. This approach not only supports individual growth but also strengthens the collective team spirit.
For other centre directors aiming to foster a similar culture, the advice is clear: Prioritise open communication and support. "Celebrate achievements, provide professional development opportunities, and ensure every team member feels heard,” advises Payal. ‘Because building a culture of continuous improvement and mutual respect is essential for creating a thriving team environment”.
Maintaining a positive culture also means effectively managing conflicts and challenges. At Malabar, conflicts are addressed with a focus on understanding different perspectives and finding mutually agreeable solutions. "Mediation sessions and open dialogues are encouraged to resolve issues" Payal continues.
This constructive approach helps maintain a harmonious and productive work environment.
Communication is the cornerstone of Malabar’s strong team culture. Regular team meetings, open forums, and informal gatherings ensure that everyone is aligned and included in decision-making processes. "Transparent communication keeps everyone on the same page and fosters a sense of inclusion,” reflects Payal.
Malabar EEC employs a variety of innovative team-building practices, including collaborative workshops, team retreats, and social events. Reflective practices and peer observations also contribute to continuous improvement. "These activities help us grow together and strengthen our team dynamics” says Payal.
“We emphasise self-care and celebrate small wins to keep the team motivated. I believe maintaining a positive outlook and providing resources for stress management is crucial in keeping the team focused and resilient” Payal notes.
Feedback is a vital component of Malabar’s team culture. "We focus on specific behaviours and outcomes rather than personal attributes. Regular feedback sessions and a culture of open, honest communication ensure that feedback is constructive and encouraging, contributing to ongoing growth and development”
Achievements and milestones are celebrated through staff recognition events, social gatherings, and personalised notes of appreciation. “Highlighting successes during team meetings fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment,” says Centre Director Payal. “These celebrations play a significant role in reinforcing a positive and motivated work environment”.
The Exceeding rating is a testament to the team’s dedication and hard work. “It signifies that our practices meet and surpass national standards, and reflect the ongoing pursuit of excellence and the high-quality early education provided by the Malabar team”.
Our unwavering commitment to the NQF is evident through continuous self-assessments, professional development, and collaborative planning. “Key areas of focus include curriculum development, child safety, and family engagement,” shares a team member. Regular review meetings and internal assessments are integral to our practice, ensuring the team consistently upholds the highest standards throughout the rigorous process.
For centres aiming for an Exceeding rating, the advice is:
to engage in continuous professional development
foster a culture of reflection and feedback
maintain strong communication and collaboration.
"Build strong relationships with families and the community, and strive for improvement in all areas of practice,” advises Payal.
Malabar Early Education and Care's team culture is a great example of what can be achieved with strong leadership, and a commitment to continuous improvement. By embracing these practices, other centres can also inspire excellence and create an environment where everyone—children, educators, and families—thrives.