Seventeen year old Georgie Harris has always known that she has a natural affiliation with young children so it comes as no surprise that she has fitted in extremely well at Mirambeena Children’s Centre in Toowoomba.
The school-based trainee has already completed her Certificate III in Children’s Services and has signed up to do a Diploma of Children’s Services, whilst completing Year 12 at The Glennie School this year.
BUSY At Work Mentor Officer, Nicole Clifford was full of praise for Georgie who had begun her studies in childcare whilst still in Year 11.
“I have been visiting Georgie since she commenced her traineeship in November 2014 and it is clear to see her passion when working with children. She has progressed extremely well and managed to complete her certificate in just over 12 months.”
“Her dedication and commitment has seen her excel in both her work and in training. It is very rare that a school student is offered an opportunity to undertake a Diploma in Children’s Services while still attending school and I have no doubt that Georgie will continue to excel in her chosen career,” Ms Clifford said.
Mirambeena Children’s Centre Director, Lyn Johnston said Georgie was a keen and enthusiastic worker who had shown a maturity far beyond her age.
“Georgie started with us 16 months ago working in all four of our rooms. Right from the beginning she has demonstrated a passion for child care. She has a nurturing personality and is always keen to engage with the children. She is always prepared to take on any roles that are asked of her and has become a valued and respected member of our team.”
“During the recent summer holidays she stepped up to be a Child Care Assistant in one of our Kindy rooms and fulfilled the role with great enthusiasm. We are thoroughly excited to have her at the centre and feel very fortunate that she will continue to undertake work and study with us here at Mirambeena,” Ms Johnston said.
Georgie said she was grateful for the mentoring she had received from BUSY At Work.
“They have visited me on regular basis and always greet me with a smile and show understanding and support.
“My mentor has always encouraged me to push myself that little bit more and kept me on track with my study plans. I would not have been able to complete my certificate early without their support,” Georgie said.
Georgie credits her interest in child care to having always being around children with her family.
“I had three older sisters growing up and a loving home environment. When I was younger I always enjoyed babysitting and really feel I can make a difference in children’s lives.”
“As a Child Care Assistant I like to ensure the children have a wonderful day and get the best start to their futures,” Georgie said.
As for the future, Georgie hopes to complete her Diploma of Children’s Services in the next 18 months and eventually specialise in looking after children with a disability.
BUSY At Work CEO, Paul Miles said Georgie’s positive attitude and passion for child care had set a great example for other young people to follow in achieving their career goals.
“Through the support of BUSY At Work, her school and her employer Georgia now has the confidence, skills and ability to succeed in her chosen career. We are pleased to be able to support her and know she has a bright future ahead of her,” Mr Miles said.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Leanne Macnamara, Public Relations Coordinator
0438 173 960 leanne.macnamara@busyatwork.com.au
