Staff at Lowood Little Gems Child Care

Ashleigh-Centre Director/Educational Leader  – In Child Care Since 2020 – Diploma Qualified

Hello, my name is Ash! I have a strong passion in supporting children of all abilities to reach their full potential. I have a background in Disability Support Work and Swim Teaching, however, Childcare is where I am meant to be! I am a mum to two children. Having a neurodiverse child has taught me the importance of finding the right village for support, which is what led me into becoming an educator that understands and advocates for inclusion, daily. As an educator, I thrive on providing sensory experiences for children to explore, as it is my belief that children learn by doing, and doing is noisy, untidy, messy and unpredictable.
I look forward to meeting you all soon and becoming a part of your family, the same way you will become part of ours.

Renee- Admin – In Child Care Since 2018 – Studying Diploma

My name is Renee and I am the Lead Educator in our Caterpillars Room.
I have always had a passion for Early Childhood Education which I guess for me started from growing up in such a big family. I am the eldest of 8 children and to date have 24 nieces and nephews 👶
 I believe that nothing is more precious in our lives than our little ones, and nothing is more rewarding than watching them grow and develop through their early years 🌿
I have 7 beautiful children, 6 daughters and 1 Son. My youngest 2 children attend our Little Gems Centre💎
 I look forward to building meaningful relationships with you families and watching our Little Gems blossom in a safe, fun, nurturing environment👯‍♀️

Kelly – Centre Director – In Child Care Since 2007 – Bachelor of General Education

Hello, my name is Kelly and I am the Director of Little Gems Lowood. I am a mother of 2 children who are 7 and 9. Early Childhood education has always been a passion area for me and I have been in the childcare sector for the past 16 years. I am looking forward to being a part of your child’s learning journey with us and welcoming you into our community.

Caterpillars Room – 6 weeks to 15 months

Tori-Educator – In Child Care Since 2014 – Certificate III Qualified

Hi Families,
My name is Tori and I am very excited to be appointed as your Lead Educator.  I have worked in the early childhood sector for the past 10 years and I love each and every day.  During this time, I have had the opportunity to work with all age groups and guide learning for children to reach their goals and milestones. I hold my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and have now enrolled to study my Diploma.
I am dedicated to creating a safe, secure and caring learning environment for all of our little ones and ensuring that each day their individual needs are my highest priority. I aim to liaise with families in an open and honest manner in hopes to create meaningful and long lasting relationships built on trust and communication.
With two beautiful children of my own, Abby and Lukas, I understand how important creating strong relationships with educators is to families.  I am looking forward to getting to know all of you and sharing the wonderful moments and achievements together.

Brianna- Educator – In Child Care Since 2023 – Studying Certificate III

Hi! I am Brianna!   I’m a mum to 3 under the age of three I have 2 boys and a girl I love going out on the JetSkis, cooking up a really nice BBQ and sitting around a campfire with family and friends, making memories with my little family watching my 3 kids grow into the amazing individuals they are.  I am currently studying my Certificate III and have found my career of choice in early childhood. I strive to provide a kind, and nurturing environment so children feel welcome while in my care! I always like to keep the classroom feeling inclusive, an environment where children can flourish into the unique, independent little people they are! Seeing a child with a smile from ear to ear and having a giggle fills me with joy, I love creating special bonds with the children.

Charmaine – Educator – In Child Care Since 2023 – Studying Certificate III – On Maternity Leave

My name is Charmaine I’m currently studying my cert III in childcare and am proud to say I finally found my place of expertise and belonging.
I’m so excited to be part of your little ones journey here at Little Gems I can’t wait to welcome all our little ones so we can start building beautiful friendships and memories. A little bit about me, I’m a proud mum to 7 beautiful babies I have four daughters and three sons and they all make me smile and laugh every single day my life is full of laughter, jokes, hugs and little feet and hands, and I Wouldn’t have it any other way. I have a nursing background and was a manager for coles for two years. I have a personality that is bubbly and approachable so please don’t be shy and come say hi. I love books, cooking, family movie nights on the lounge and the sound and smell of rain, and nothing beats a nice cooked family meal that brings my family together at the end of each day.

Lady Bugs Room – 15 months to 2 Years

Jacinta – Educator – In Child Care Since 2016 – Diploma Qualified

Hi! My name is Jacinta! I have worked in childcare since 2016 and have my diploma in early childcare. I’m excited to start my journey at Little Gems. Supporting the team and children in our service and helping them grow and develop in my care. I’m I very bubbly and outgoing person and always here to talk.

Amanda – Educator – In Child Care Since 2016 – Diploma Qualified

Hi my name is Amanda!

I have been in the childcare industry for the past 16 years and hold my Diploma of Early Education. Starting my career in Adelaide before making the move to Brisbane 6 years ago, where I live in the Somerset region with my husband, our daughter and 3 crazy fur babies.

I believe in providing a safe and nurturing environment that provides children with the opportunity to make decisions, explore and develop connections.  I am dedicated to ensuring all children are shown care, love and support through each moment at Little Gems.
I am looking forward to being a part of your child’s learning journey.

Bumble Bees – 2 Years to 3 Years

Kim- Lead Educator – In Child Care Since 2019  – Diploma Qualified

I am looking forward to meeting you all!

Zoe – Educator  – Certificate III Qualified – In Early Childhood since 2022

Hi, my name is Zoe and I have worked in childcare since 2019. My partner and I have a son, Oliver, who attends Little Gems and we also have 2 dogs, Pharah and Dozer.
I grew up in a huge family which meant lots of nieces and nephews, I think this is where I sparked my interest and passion to work with children.
My favourite part about being an educator is the relationships I get to create with the children and their families, seeing the big smiles on the children’s faces as they play and settle in of a morning and how every day is different.
I look forward to seeing what the future brings for myself and my son at this beautiful centre!

Butterflies Room – 2.5 years to 3.11 Years

Angel – Educator – In Child Care Since 2018 –  Certificate III Qualified – Studying Diploma

Hi my name is Miss Angel👋🏼

I’m new to the area and a mum of two boys who attend little gems and we absolutely love it.🤎

I’ve been working in child care sector since 2018, so it’s given me the opportunity to work with children of all ages. I hold my cert 3 and currently studying my diploma. 📝

I believe each child is unique and learn in their own individual way and pace, I will continue to nurture each child’s growth and education.🪴

I look forward to working alongside families and team members to help our little gem children thrive to their fullest potential. 🌻

Makayla- Educator – In Child Care Since 2023 – Studying Certificate III

Hello!!
My name is Miss Makayla!!
I have been doing my certificate 3 in early childhood education whilst working here at little gems, I have loved every second I get to spend with the children and I look forward to guiding and helping them all grow 🌻
I am the second eldest of 8 siblings which I absolutely adore. Growing up with little brothers and sisters has really sparked my passion for children. ✨
I’m a super loving person and love creating special bonds with all the children, always giving cuddles, playing in the sandpit, I love to run around with them all doing running races and playing soccer.

Summer- Educator – In Child Care Since 2023 – Studying Certificate III

Hi Families,

My name is Summer and I am thrilled to be part of the Little Gems Family.  Coming from a big family of 7, I love to be part of fun, laughter and adventures each and every day.  I look forward to creating the same feeling here with you all.

I am passionate about ensuring children feel safe, secure and encouraged to explore and discover new learning opportunities. I am dedicated to creating meaningful relationships with  families that will support children to flourish in our Centre.

I am studying for my Certificate 3 in Early Childhood and look forward to going onto completing my Diploma.  I believe keeping up to date with theorists and professionals in the Early Childhood sector valuable to can’t wait to share this information with our team.

Looking forward to meeting you all,

Summer

Dragonflies – 2.5 Years to 4 Years

Kim – Educator – In Child Care Since 2016 – Certificate III Qualified and Studying Diploma

Hi my name is Kimberley I’m a mum of two beautiful children. I love my job as an early years educator because I believe that their learning journey starts at a young age, before they go to school. I enjoy creating a welcoming learning environment and planning fun learning experiences for your children to learn and develop at their own pace.
In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family on our property with our horses and farm animals.
I look forward to meeting all our Little Gems families.

Grasshoppers – 4 Years to 5 Years

Katie – Educator – In Child Care Since 2018 – Studying Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood

Hi Families,

My name is Katie and I am very excited about joining the Little Gems Team. My philosophy with  children is to engage them in fun activities that develop strong foundations for the rest of their lives. I plan experiences that encourage children’s creativity, imagination and their ability to communicate with their peers and educators.

I have completed my Diploma in Early Childhood and I am extremely passionate about sustainable practices and educating children on how to reuse, reduce and recycle. I am confident in sign language and love to help children to learn to express themselves and needs in different ways.

I am looking forward to meeting you all and helping to educate your beautiful children.

Katie

Centre Support Educators

Kirsty – Lead Educator – In Child Care Since 2005 – Diploma Qualified

Hi my name is Kirsty, I am one of the educators here at Little Gems. A little bit about myself, I have 3 children, Seth 14, Lucie 4 and Ruby 3 who both attend the service here in the bigger rooms. I started my career within Childcare as a trainee 18 years ago and have held my Diploma for 12 years and plan to start studying my Bachelor of Primary mid 2024. Nursery is one of my favourite age groups and I can’t wait to watch them grow into strong little independent toddlers. I cannot wait to work alongside you here at Little Gems to help get the most out of your child’s start in the early years sector and go on an amazing journey with you all.

Taiya – Educator – In Child Care Since 2023 –  Studying Certificate III

Hi my name is Taiya and I am a young motivated individual pursuing an extraordinary opportunity to kick start my most desired future career at little gems. I’m beyond exited to be apart of the learning and development of the children of our community. I am one of seven kids, I have grown up really close with my siblings that I adore more than anything. I like to explore and experience new things like food new places and cultures. I also love to laugh and share a smile to bring joy and light into everyone’s day.

Shanae – Educator – In Child Care Since 2023 – Certificate III Qualified

Hello my name is Shanae, I’m 19 years old and I graduated year 12 in 2022. I currently hold a Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education and Care. This year I have started my studies at university for a Bachelor of Primary Education, as I am passionate about working with children and see this as being part of my long term career. Some fun facts about me are; I have been dancing since I was 4 years old and in 2023 have also started teaching dance to children ages 4 to 12 years old, which is something I look forward to every week. I have two dogs named Gryffin and Spencer and love playing with them in my spare time. This is my first year working in childcare and I cannot wait to meet all of the families at Little Gems.

Chelsie – Educator – In Child Care Since 2024 – Studying Certificate III

Hello  Families,

My name is Chelsie and I believe that children learn and love being at our Centre because of the way we have made a family.  To me our Centre is a home away from home where I just loved seeing children run into our rooms and give us great big hugs.  This is the best part of my day!

I love to listen to the many stories children say and the wonderful expressions they use to describe an event or experience they have been part of.  We have an amazing role in children’s loves and I am so grateful to be part of this.

I am currently studying for my Certificate 3 in Early Childhood and will hopefully be finished soon.

Looking forward to seeing you and meeting your family,

Chelsie

Paige – Educator – In Child Care Since 2023 – Studying Certificate III – On Maternity Leave

Hey, my name is Paige and I am excited to start my journey into childcare at Little Gems. I am currently studying a certificate III and will continue my studies while working at the centre to ensure I am a valuable member of the team. I am a calm, caring and empathetic person who loves to provide fun and joyful experiences to those around me and I look forward to getting to know all the children in my care as well as forming good communications with their families.

Emily – Educator – In Child Care Since 2023 – Studying Certificate III –

Hi Little Gems families

My name is Emily. I have always had a passion to work with children. I love being able to watch the children blossom and reach all their amazing milestones in their journey at Little Gems. I love my role at Little Gems, being able to watch the children learn through pay and support them to reach their goals. Building secure relationships with the children is what i pride myself on, having the children run up to you for a hug each day makes my day!

I am currently studying my certificate III in early childhood education and care. In my time off, you will find me spending time with my family and friends.

I am really looking forward to meeting you all and building relationships with you and your children!

Kira-Lee – Educator – In Child Care Since 2023 – Studying Certificate III –

Hi! I am Kira-Lee and am currently studying my certificate III in early childhood and care services. I believe that children learn best through play and aim to provide children with stimulating learning environments that create curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.

I feel it is a privilege to be able to work with your precious little people each and every day and watch them blossom and grow!

In my spare time you can find me spending time with my family and being outdoors! I look forward to working with you!

Hayley – Educator – In Child Care Since 2018 – Diploma qualified

Hi Little Gems families!

I am a mum of 4 boys, one of which has ASD/ADHD so have experience working with children with additional needs. I believe all children need a calm, patient caring environment to grow and learn. I hold a diploma in early childhood and also do disability support work when I am not working in Early Childhood. My goal is to have all children going home at the end of the day feeling safe, heard and confident and learning something new every day!

I believe in Piaget’s theories of nurturing, developing an understanding of what children can and cannot do based on their age and stage of development as well as listening to the children  and their ideas. This forms the foundation of my practice as an educator.

I look forward to meeting you all!

Kaylah-Ann – Educator – In Child Care Since 2024 – Studying Certificate III Early Childhood Education and Care

Hi! My name is Kylah-Ann. I am the eldest of five children and have always had a passion for supporting children to grow and learn! I had lots of practice with my 4 younger siblings!

I am currently studying my certificate III in early childhood and am loving being able to put my studies into practice. I am so excited to be able to help shape the Little Gems of the future.

Liana – Educator – In Child Care Since 2024 – Studying Certificate III Early Childhood Education and Care

Hi Little Gems families

I look forward to meeting you all!