We’re excited to extend a warm welcome to Will, the new Centre Manager at Point Cook! Will joined us in November last year. We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with him for a Q&A.
Q. How long have you been working in early childhood education?
A. I’ve worked in the early childhood education sector for 15 years now. I find my work profoundly rewarding.
The Y’s values are very aligned to my own, focusing on the positive social impact of children’s programs and putting families at the heart of everything we do.
My previous role was supervisor of the early learning centre at the Royal Women’s Hospital.
Q. What impact/change do you want to make at Point Cook?
A. I like to champion high quality practices and empower and support the educator team around me with strong leadership. I want to be able to truly support the communities we are serving and see children and their families thrive.
I’m keen to strengthen relationships within the local Point Cook community such as maternal health, schools, support services such as speech pathologist, OT, intervention to support our families holistically with referral pathways if needed for children to thrive.
I also want to help families feel validated that they have made the right choice in sending their child to the y and feel like they belong.
I am committed to providing strong leadership and clear direction and empowering my staff to succeed.
Q. What has been one of your proudest moments in your career?
A. I've had many but I'd have to say helping two other Centres elevate their quality standards to exceeding, which has been a career highlight. I hope Point Cook can be the third!
Q. Why is early childhood education so important?
A. Children are the architects of the future so they need a strong foundation of early childhood education and wellbeing to help build their confidence and resilience to thrive.
Families put a whole lot of trust in people to look after children during the week, and I want them to feel confident knowing they have made the right choice by sending them to our Centre.
Q. In a non-traditional male field, what would you say to anyone considering a career in early learning?
A. When I started, I was the only male I knew who worked in the early childhood education sector. Now there are more, however only 16.8% of the Y's children's programs workforce identify as male.
If you are truly passionate about children and families and fostering community success, this is the sector where you can truly see and feel that impact. Step into the role, and challenge stereotypes.
A number of the male educators I’ve worked with have been absolutely amazing and inspired positive change. As long as you are bringing your passion and dedication, a career in this sector is truly rewarding!
Pictured: Will with Harper and Rileigh (children)
