Elyse Quilkey
Hi my name is Elyse Quilkey and I’m currently the director of Kindy Patch West Gosford.
My career working with children started in 2005 were I spent a year in Italy as a Nanny to a four year old boy teaching him English. I found this experience extremely rewarding watching him develop and articulate the English language.
Upon arriving back in Australia I decided I wanted to pursue a career working with young children. I then began a full time traineeship studying my Certificate 3 in childcare. I went on to continue my studies completing my diploma in children’s services in 2009. Using my knowledge I gained from completing my diploma I worked as a room leader in the nursery. In late 2010 I was offered a promotion to become the Centre Manager. I took this as an exciting opportunity to further my skills and to learn the business aspects of childcare. I have found my role as Centre Manager both challenging and inspiring as I build relationships with families, children and staff and develop my leadership skills.
I feel that by working my way up through the different levels of the child care industry, it has allowed me to understand all aspects of the job and to relate with staff, families, children and the community to help develop and scaffold the children in learning experiences as well as develop a quality care environment. By studying whilst working within the industry has allowed me to hone into my areas of interest, creative arts including music and craft, and extend my understanding of how best to deliver this to the children and their families. I now plan to enrol in the Bachelor of Teaching to advance my skills and to further my career opportunities.
