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Professional Development
As a group, Lollipops Educare recognises that the wellbeing of our staff directly impacts on the standard of care within each centre. Acknowledging staff as professional educators and contributing to their wellbeing is a core value of the group, to this end we provide a professional development programme to develop and extend the knowledge and skills of staff as individuals.
Six-weekly workshops which are linked to our policies and practices are available through Lollipops Educare’s Support Team. Examples of these workshops include a car-rally to knowledge-share ideas from other centres, Transition to School, Culture-flow, and Toddlers and the Environment workshops. Our Centre Directors are acknowledged as leaders and professionals and regularly attend workshops and discussions designed to develop leadership and business skills. We have an open-door policy between centres and Head Office staff with every centre being overseen by a National Operations Manager and a team of support staff. Katee Waetford – Centre Support Manager For Lollipops educators, professional development is a never-ending process. As Support Manager, Katee Waetford is the person who ensures that each educator has access to continuing education, support, and the wealth of knowledge and strategies available within the Lollipops Educare network. With a background in education facilitation, Katee joined the team at Lollipops in 2009. The Support Team visits every Lollipops Educare centre in New Zealand on a regular basis to meet with staff and management. Katee’s goal is to develop the standards of each centre beyond all current Ministry of Education requirements and it’s a goal that will ensure child in Lollipops care will receive an exceptional early childhood education.“It’s always such a pleasure to meet with educators who are so passionate about the development and wellbeing of young children. And it’s a real privilege to be in a role that allows me to contribute so positively to the lives of young children and their families.” Contact Details:Mobile: 021 647 897Email: katee@lollipopseducare.co.nz
Debbie Dimery - Centre Support Manager Centre Support Manager Debbie Dimery began her teaching career as a primary school teacher. She made the move into the early childhood education sector in the early 1990’s and has owned her own centre in Wellington and has also been a Centre Director in various centres. Debbie loves meeting new people and has extensive experience in successfully managing staff and providing ongoing support. Her strong interpersonal and communication skills mean that Debbie is able to effectively listen to staff concerns and find the best possible solution. Debbie holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and is a fully registered teacher. She has two children in their twenties and enjoys travelling and being out and about in the great outdoors.“Lollipops Educare is a professional organization which offers wonderful opportunities for staff to further their development in Early Childhood Education. It’s a pleasure to be working within a supportive team that allows me to learn new strategies and further develop my career.” Contact Details:Mobile: 021 373 434Email: debbie@lollipopseducare.co.nz
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