Kieran Giles
Hi,
I witnessed the joy, excitement and pleasure of working with children in 1998 when I began teaching ‘Learn to Swim’. I still feel these emotions every day at the centre and am constantly amazed by the development and excitement of the children.
I began working casually in the childcare profession in 2003 while studying for my degree at Newcastle University. In 2007 I completed my Bachelor of Teaching/Bachelor of Early Childhood and my employment with Kindy Patch began in December. I was firstly employed by Kindy Patch as a qualified teacher and have since been promoted to Centre Manager. During my time with Kindy Patch I have worked as a room leader, 2IC and Centre Manager.
The core of my philosophy and practices is a desire to develop and provide a caring, nurturing and educational program and centre. I strive to achieve my philosophy daily and encourage my fellow colleagues to achieve their personal and centre philosophies. The ability of the centre to provide high quality care and education in the evolving child care profession is achieved through constant and up to date professional development and the leadership of individuals. As the centre manager it is my role to lead the staff and centre into the future, ensuring we exceed expectations and meet current regulations. This is achieved by seeking, listening and valuing all input, exploring current research and information and developing relationships with colleagues, families and other professionals.
Families and the community play an important role in the growth and development of children. I actively strive to engage with families and the community regularly by promoting an open door to the centre. Engaging with families enables the centre to include families, practices, ideas and knowledge during the course of the day. Families are engaged with the centre by reading stories to children, attending family and centre events, and providing constant feedback. Engagement with the community is achieved in a variety of ways. Local businesses and professionals are supported when purchasing products and resources, and when referring families. Correspondence and relationships with local schools is vital to our school readiness program. Information is shared regularly and staff are encouraged to share ideas regarding teaching strategies, practices and child development. Students from schools, TAFE and Universities regularly attend the centre, developing their skills and sharing current knowledge and practices with the centre. I will to continue to develop relationships with families and the community into the future.
