We encourage employees to learn from their peers through mentoring opportunities and we try as much as possible to promote from within our own organisation because we value the great people we have working at Story House. We would like to congratulate Julianna on her recent promotion to 2IC at our Kids House Cheltenham service. Julianna has been a dedicated employee, always willing to put her hand up and offering help where needed. Julianna is passionate about the early childhood industry and the quality of services provided for each of our children and families. We look forward to seeing where Julianna’s new chapter with Story House will take her.
Tell us about your career at Story House?
I have been working at Kids House Cheltenham since October of 2019. I have worked in a plethora of roles here before settling on Educational Leader and Room Leader for the Nursery rooms. I have worked here with all the age groups but found my passion with the programming side and mentoring other educators in their programming and practice within the Early Childhood sector.
What led you to a career in the childcare industry?
I came to Australia in 2016 from America where I was studying to become a lawyer at Texas Tech University. While I was participating at a study abroad program at Macquarie University I found a love for working with children. Because of this, I switched from my law degree to getting my bachelors in education where I worked with a wonderful group of Kinder children. Ever since I made the switch I feel as if my passion for the industry has only increased with every connection and meaningful relationship made.
What do you love about the service you work in?
Kids House Cheltenham has been the best childcare I have worked at throughout my career. The standards which we set out for when I started have created a cohesive and positive environment that make it a joy to work in on a daily basis. The families here at Kids House Cheltenham are one of a kind and make partnerships with the families a wonderful part of the day.
During the process of becoming 2IC, Monique and our Business Operations Manager Shirleen were supportive and helpful throughout this new role. I am looking forward to working as part of the management team for not only this wonderful service but also, embodying the values and principles set out by Story House to provide children with the best environment possible.
Who Inspires you and why?
Fred Rogers inspires me to be the person I am today. Fred Rogers was the television host and author of a popular American children’s show – Mister Rogers Neighbourhood, which ran from 1968-2001. Fred Rogers represents the most significant human values, such as, compassion, respect, kindness, integrity, and humanity. Accepting everyone for who they are and celebrating their uniqueness.
Throughout my own teaching philosophies and daily practices I have strived to embody these principles and to always strive to create a positive and supportive environment for my peers, the children, and the families. I believe that all children need to be respected and provided with the opportunity to express who they are. Diversity practices help convey respect and aid children in developing their own positive attitudes in regards to similarities and differences. Through providing experiences and opportunities which embrace all aspects of life.
Working within Story House has been a wonderful experience as the core values are the same as my own. Story House strives to create an inclusive environment which celebrates the individual through supporting their family and community.
What are you passionate about?
I am passionate about Early Childhood Education. I believe that the first five years in a child’s life are the most significant in developing their personalities and their identity. Our job as Early Childhood Educators make it even more important to be the best versions of ourself we can be.
I believe that children are capable, competent, and unique learners. Each has a right to feel safe, secure, and supported in their environment. As Early Childhood Educators we need to foster nurturing, respectful, and encouraging relationships that are significant in their development. In addition, we need to understand the families and children within our centre and allowing the children to freely explore, learn, and express their own individuality and abilities alongside their peers, educators, and the community.
