Staff at Little Gems Early Learning Albany Creek

My name is Jaime and I am the Director here at Little Gems. I started at Little Gems in February 2013 and that’s when I began my journey and started studying my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and then went on to do my Diploma in Children’s Services. I am a sister of three, Ashleigh my older sister who also works here at Little Gems and a younger sister Libby. I have lived in Brisbane my whole life and I love this area. I live with my family and our family of Chihuahuas and Poodles. I must say I love watching the development of each and every child’s learning journey. It is truly amazing to watch children grow and develop as they get older. I’m an easy going, trustful and respectful person and I’m always willing to take on board any advice given to me.

My name is Amy and I am a Director here at Little Gems. I have been working in the childcare industry since 2011 and have loved every minute of it. I hold my Diploma in Children Services and I love the challenge of learning more about the childcare industry. My interest in childcare happened when my nephew was born in 2009. He made me became more and more interested in how children grow and learn. I wanted to be part of that learning experience and to help children learn and develop important life skills. Since then I have had experience in a variety of roles including being an Assistant Educator, a Lead Educator, Assistant Director and Educational Leader and now Director. I have a passion in guiding and assisting Educators to provide quality care along with working alongside our families to ensure the children within our service are supported in their learning and development as the first 6 years of a child’s life is the most important. In my spare time you would find me crafting on my cricut, reading, spending time with my husband and playing with my dogs and my bird. I have built my own home with my husband in Caboolture and now have lots chickens that joined our little family. I am an easy going person and I look forward to getting to know you and your children. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to discuss them with me and I will try my best to help.

My name is Tegan, I graduated from High School in the year 2013. I also graduated from TAFE in 2013 with my Certificate III in Children’s services. I have since completed my Diploma in early childhood and care. I also hold my Asthma, Anaphylaxis and First aid. I began working in the childcare industry at the beginning of 2014 and I am still loving it to this day. I enjoy watching the children grow and strive to reach new milestones each day. I currently live in Lawnton with my fiancé, son Levi, Daughter Dakota (Koko) and pet dog named Mayhem whom lives up to his name. I enjoy being around family and friends and the outdoors and try to go camping as much as possible throughout the year. I love to play hockey and have done so since 2008 and hope to return this year after having a few years maternity leave. I’m a very happy out going person and very approachable, so please feel free to have a conversation with me. I can’t wait to get to know you all.

Hi, my name is Jasmine and I have my certificate 3 in Early Childhood and Care. I have started studying my diploma at TAFE. When I’m not at TAFE I’m working at Little Gems and I’m absolutely loving working with all the children and the educators. So far, it seems my choice of occupation is the right one for me. I live locally and on my off days I love to dance and spend time with family and friends. I have a big sister and a gorgeous little dog called Daisy. I love travelling with my family which stems from a time when my dad’s work took us to Canada to live for 14 months. We continue to travel and I’m sure as I get older I’ll continue with that love of travel. In the meantime, I’m looking forward to more rewarding days with the children, educators and families here at Little Gems.

My name is Anne and I am one of the Lead Educator at Little Gems. I have been working at the centre since it opened in January 2007, spending most of the time in the younger rooms. I completed by Certificate III in Children’s Services in 2009 and my Diploma in Children’s Services in July 2012. I have worked with children my entire working life and find the vocation both challenging and rewarding. On a more personal level I have two girls, both grown and working; one in childcare as well, and the other in retail. In 2016 I was blessed with a beautiful grandson, Carter, who I just adore. I believe family and friends are the most important part of life and I try to spend as much time with them as I can. I am looking forward to caring for your child and getting to know you.

Hi, my name is Tansy, I have been working in childcare for over 25 years and I completed my diploma in Children’s Services in 2014. I’m the youngest of 4 children with my Dad being from England and my mum being mostly Australian and many different cultures in her background. My interests consist of horse riding, camping, fishing, dancing, footy, cricket, listening to music and watching movies. I am a dog mum to two dogs, their names are Peppa who is a hairless Chinese crested and Cooper who is a red cattle dog cross Labrador. I look forward to getting to know all of the children that come into my care as well as their families.

My name is Tiane and I have a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. My Passion for this industry started when I was only 15. I became an aunt for the first time but it wasn’t till after I started my own family that I was to pursue this passion of mine and begin studying the career of my dreams. I am also a mother to a lovely little girl that I adore. I love being an active part of your child’s life here at Little Gems and cannot wait to watch them grow and learn. I believe in being a positive role model in your child’s life and helping to shape them into confident adults with a positive approach to life and educating them in caring for our environment. In my spare time I love to relax and take my daughter out on little play dates where she can learn and discover new things.

My name is Anne and I have been working at the centre since 2007 when it first opened. I am originally from Wellington, New Zealand and I enjoy going back to New Zealand on occasion to see my family, though they all live in Auckland. I come from a relatively large family with three brothers and a sister, most whom have married and have their own children. I have been married to Travis since 2007 also, we have no two legged children but one beautiful four legged Boxer called Jazz. I have been working in the early childhood field ever since I left school in 1989. I went to the Wellington Collage of Education where I successfully completed my Diploma of Teaching in Early Childhood Education. In all this time I have discovered my passion lies in the under 4’s. I love fostering and supporting a child’s independence. In the room I aim to be co-constructor of knowledge with the toddlers, working alongside them in their learning journey. I understand Toddlers to be focused on the here and now, impulsive, energetic, determined and they like to gain control over their world by testing limits. I look forward to getting to know you all.

My Name is Robert, you may call me Rob, I’m currently studying my certificate 3 in childcare. I’ve been working with children since 2010 starting out as a swim teacher/coach around Brisbane. While I’m still a swim coach I’ve added working in childcare as a daily job because I truly enjoy working with children of all ages. My first child was born in 2023 and I was extremely excited throughout the whole process. I’ve learnt so much with the journey of pregnancy (to all the wonderful mums out there hats off to you, you’re all amazing women). I’m a man of faith and I hold strong to my belief system as a Christian I attend church every Sunday and enjoy fellowship with my church family throughout the week. I’m also a bit of a child myself so working with your little ones is a dream, I’m also a huge animal lover and I’ve worked with countless species of domestic animals since I was able to walk due to my parents owning a pet shop and a huge farm. So if you see me around the centre please come and have a chat, I love hearing your stories and look forward to finding all about you and your little ones.

Hi! My name is Montana, I’m nearly 21 years old and this is my first time working in Childcare. I have previously been working in hospitality and have done babysitting for family and friends. In my spare time I love hanging out with friends, going to the beach and going camping. I’m looking forward to getting to know you and your children and becoming a part of the family here at Little Gems.

My name is Rosa. I have been working at Little Gems since 2013. I started off as the ECT for the centre but as my child got older I found that my passion was working with the younger children. I have both my Bachelor of Education degree (Primary) and Diploma in children services. I have always loved working with children regardless of what age. I have enjoyed just being in their presence, talking to them, listening to the conversations between children, observing their play, seeing their imaginations come alive, being part of their lives and seeing their eyes light up when they discover something new or when they have mastered something they have tried so long and hard to do. If I haven’t already done so, I can’t wait to meet you and your children, work together in providing a nurturing and supportive learning environment, playing alongside your children and going on their individual learning journeys.

Hello! my name is Madeline or Maddy. I’m 19 years old and currently studying my certificate III in early childhood education. I started working with Little Gems in 2023 and absolutely love getting to know you and your little ones! A little bit about me, in my free time I loving cooking, going to the beach and of course hanging out with my two little sisters who are still in primary school! My goal is to one day take them travelling with me. Feel free to come and say hello! I am very excited to get to know you all.

Hi my name is Madi, I have been working in childcare since 2023. I have always wanted to work with children. I was previously babysitting for family and friends. I enjoy travelling, being with family and going to the beach. I have 2 younger brothers and an older brother. I also have 3 rag-doll cats and 2 dogs. I am very much looking forward to getting to know you and your children and watch and help them grow into amazing people. I am always open to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Feel free to ask me about anything you want to know.

My name is Katie and I am an Educator here at Little Gems. Before this I was a full time student studying my Diploma in Children’s Services at Caboolture, Brisbane North Institute of Tafe. I have also completed my certificate III in children’s services. My interests are Observing Children and how they play and develop. My hobbies are cooking/baking and spending time with my family and friends. My personal Philosophy is that I believe all children have the right to have a safe, loving environment that allows them to explore their world in Independence. I believe that there is no child that is exactly the same and that is what makes a child unique and an individual.

Hi my name is Carmel, I was born in Grafton, NSW and was born and raised there, eventually moving to Brisbane in November 2020. I was raised by to wonderful Parents, Maurice and Olive Chapman. My dad was an outstanding horseman and he taught me how to ride from a very young age. We raised horses together and I was hooked on the horse lifestyle. Mum was a strong woman as she was a nurse as well as a mother to 6 children, yes I am the youngest of the 6. I originally took an apprenticeship to become a Butcher but that later changed to a Sales Assistant for Woolworths, where I worked for 17 years before making the switch to Childcare. After the birth of our daughter, our second child, I commenced in Family Daycare. My husband, Jason, and I raised 3 children of our own while operating the Family Daycare from my home. This was extremely rewarding and our kids grew up with a lot of children that came through my practice over 17 years. In 2019 I decided it time for a change and I commenced working at Willy Wagtails, a privately owned Center based in Yamba, 45 minutes from Grafton. After 12 months here the dreaded COVID set in and whilst I was always able to work, various events lead my husband and I to the decision that it was time for a complete change. So we packed up and moved to Brisbane. Originally we were based on the South side but eventually made our way North to our current home in Brendale. Since moving to Brisbane our eldest son. And his partner have built a house and welcomed their first child, and our first Grandson. I continue to love horses and I endeavour to go riding as often as I can when we go on camping holidays throughout SEQ. I strive as educator to show compassion and guidance towards all of the children in my care and support parents throughout their child’s learning experiences and development. I also have a passion for mentoring new educators in a way that allows them to see that their role as an educator is extremely important to the development of children and ultimately our society in general. I am heading into my 22nd year of childcare and currently studying towards my Diploma so that I can be better able to provide support to the children and their educators.

My name is Anneleise and I am a Kindergarten teacher. I have completed my Bachelor of Education in 2006 and previous to that I completed my Certificate III in Children Services. I took time away from teaching to be a mum to my four children. I have worked across many different age groups but really enjoy learning and growing with the younger children. I am passionate about children as they deserve lots of love and attention to support their growth, I feel our job is one of the most important jobs. I love watching children grow and develop and what better way to do that then in Childcare. I see myself as an easy going person and I hope to build strong trustworthy relationships with families, children and Educators here at Little Gems.

My name is Ashleigh and I’m a Lead Educator here at Little Gems. I have two sisters Jaime and Libby and a beautiful baby girl Patsy-Mae who attends Little Gems with me. I completed my Certificate III in 2008 through school and continued to work in childcare when I graduated high school. In 2012 I completed my Diploma. I decided to work in the industry because I love caring for children and helping them develop. I like to do arts and crafts and am always looking for new ideas. I am a very loud, open and clumsy individual and can’t imagine myself working in any other industry because I love children, love watching them grow, play and learn and I’m a big kid at heart.

My name is Tahlia and I have been working in the childcare industry since 2013. I hold a bachelor of Early Childhood and Primary which I completed in 2014. I then returned to university and studied a graduate certificate in Special Education. I thoroughly enjoy working with children and watching them grow and learn. I believe that each child is a unique individual. I therefore endeavor to provide a safe and secure environment that will meet each child’s developmental needs. I believe as an Educator it is important to work collaboratively with families therefore, if you have any questions or concerns please feel free to approach me. I look forward to getting to know you and your children at Little Gems.

Hello, my name is Ryan and I’m thrilled to be a part of the Little Gems community. I have a passion for early childhood education which led me to achieve a Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education and Care. In terms of work experience, I have been a swimming teacher and coach for the past nine years. This role has provided me with valuable insights into child development, safety, and building strong relationships with young learners. I’m excited to bring my expertise in teaching and nurturing children to the kindergarten environment. I look forward to getting to know each child and their unique personalities, as well as collaborating with you, the parents, to create a supportive and engaging learning environment for our little ones!

Hi my name is Jess and I have a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. I started my working career for the government as an administrative assistant but found that it wasn’t satisfying and decided I needed a change. I have been working at Little Gems as an Educator since 2011. I’m really enjoying working with children and watching them develop and learn new things every day. I’m currently living in Albany creek with my partner Stuart and our 2 dogs Skye and Gunner. We have 2 beautiful sons Jaxon and Eli and I’m lucky enough to get to bring them with me to Little Gems everyday. Feel free to come and have a chat with me and I look forward to meeting you all.

Hi! My name is Ophelia, I have been working at Little Gems since October 2023, I was born in Melbourne until the end of 2013 which I then moved to Queensland. I went to school at Albany creek where I did mainly practical subjects including childcare, I really enjoyed the subject and I thought to myself that “this is what I want to do”. I have 2 sisters, 4 stepsisters and 2 stepbrothers. I also have 3 cousins. Over the years I have been asked to look after my sisters or one of my cousins when parents have to be at work. This is what got me into childcare as I enjoyed looking after my sisters and cousins. I love interacting with the children, I love hearing their stories that they share whether it’s with one of their friends or a story from home. I love working in this environment it makes me extremely happy to work with each different child as they are all different in their little ways.

My name is Aggie and I work as a Centre Support Educator at Little Gems and I have worked at a retirement village where I was a housekeeper to the elderly since 2000 to 2018. I have my Certificate III in Children’s Services as I enjoy the feeling you get helping a child achieve their goals and especially love my time with them in the sand pit. I find if I’m in the sand pit then most of the children are alongside me. I have two adult children; a daughter who is a teacher. I also have a son in the hospitality industry who has also worked overseas. I live at home with my husband of over thirty years Rod. I am an easy going person and I will always be happy to help in any way I can.

Hi, my name is Emily and I started working at Little Gems in 2023 and I am currently studying my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. I have previously worked as a swimming teacher, I used to teach kids anywhere from ages 3 months to 13 years old. Some fun facts about me include, I love to travel, and I would love to live abroad for a year in the future. I have a cavoodle called Oscar. I am studying a Bachelor of Justice at university and in the future, I hope to start my career as a child safety officer. I am always looking for ways to become the best I can be at my job and I hope to achieve many goals here at Little Gems.

Hello, my name is Emma. My three-year-old son Spencer and I are new to The Little Gems family. I am originally from the Northeast of England; my family and I emigrated in 2006. I attended the local high school and have been in Albany Creek ever since. I am a married mother of 3 and have a furry child also! A cheeky Border Collie. My passion for Early Childhood Education began when I met my now teenage stepdaughter when she was 6 months old. I feel strongly about the importance of building trusting, strong relationships to help children feel supported through their early years. The women in my family are all Nurses, so caring and helping people is in the blood. I obtained my Certificate III in 2017 and juggled Beauty Therapy and being a Childcare Assistant for nearly two years before having children. I then had a break from Childcare and have been working fulltime as a Beauty Therapist for the last 7 years. I am excited to getting back to working with children, helping them learn and thrive in a loving safe environment. I look forward to getting to know you and your little ones at Little Gems.

My name is Kaylee, a school-based trainee here at Little Gems! I split my time between Melbourne and Brisbane since moving here in 2021, so I’ve definitely seen my fair share of crazy weather! I’m a proud cat mum to my boy Lukah, and I will forever be a kid at heart. Full of energy, I love getting involved hands on with the kids and I always go with the flow, making sure their interests come first (which usually line up with my interests anyways!) I’m passionate about dance, and my favourite subject in school is art. I’m on track to complete my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care by the end of Year 11 (2025), then finishing Year 12 in 2026. In the future however, I aspire to go to university and become a primary school teacher, so I can continue pursuing my passion and calling for children’s education. Even though I’m only 16, I’ve gained volunteer experience at Pakenham Springs Primary School in Melbourne, and I’m an active team member in Believe Church’s kids program. There, I focus on supporting younger children with behavioural, learning, and emotional needs. I’m here every Thursday, so come say hi! I love a good chat, and I’m always excited to meet new people.

Hi! My name is Sophie and I have been working at Little Gems since early 2023! I’m in grade 12 at the local high school. From studying at school, as well as TAFE, I find it very comforting coming back to Little Gems as it feels like home! In my spare time I love shopping, going to the beach, and hanging out with my friends and my partner. From as young as I can remember, I have constantly been baby sitting and looking after my parents friends kids and I strongly believe that is what has really drawn me in to wanting to help, grow, and inspire children as well as help shaping them into the beautiful and courageous souls that they are! One day I aspire to be a midwife or an NICU nurse, but currently, Little Gems is the perfect place for me! I hope to see you around, I’ll always be down for a chat so don’t be afraid to say hello! I can’t wait to get to know you and to care for your little gems!

Hello! My name is Ashlyn. You can also call me by my nickname “Lenny”, or apparently according to the children “Lemmy”. I am currently working towards getting a “Certificate II in Community Services (Early Childhood Focus)” and I am extremely lucky to be getting my TAFE hours done at Little Gems. I love writing, grammar, music, and animals. I’m a slow learner so I try to be as understanding and as patient as possible with others. I also completed a “Certificate II in Hospitality” last year. I didn’t enjoy it much, so I took a huge risk and decided to move to a childcare course and not continue my hospitality studies. That was one of the best decisions I ever made because I didn’t realise I was going to enjoy childcare this much, it’s so fun and exciting!

My name is Andy and I graduated from Albany Creek State High School in 2011 and since then have obtained my Certificate III and Diploma in Children’s Services. I’ve worked at Little Gems since 2014 and I am still enjoying the journey. I currently live with my partner Stefan after living with my mum & dad locally. I am also the youngest of three with two older brothers who are both married with daughters of their own. Looking after and playing with my nieces, Arianna, Penny and Lexi is what interested me into starting to work in the industry. Since starting my career, I have learnt so much about children and how they grow and learn. I love being a part of their journey throughout their younger years. I hope to become a familiar face to you and your child/ren this year and will be happy to help with any questions and concerns you may have.

Hi! My name Morna, I have been a regular volunteer here at Little Gems since 2019. I have had the privileged to volunteer at a centre where 3 of my Grandchildren have attended. I have mostly spent my time in the Nursery and Toddler rooms however you will see me floating around in any room where I like to offer my support.