Meet Centre Manager Janelle at Aspire White Hills
We’re excited to see Janelle step into her new role as Centre Manager at Aspire White Hills. She may be new to the role, but she’s certainly not new to Aspire. Janelle has been part of the White Hills team for years and has pretty much done it all.
From lead educator to centre manager (and everything in between)
Janelle has been working in early learning for over 25 years and joined Aspire around five and a half years ago. Since then, she’s taken on all kinds of roles, from lead educator, educational leader, admin, second in charge - and now she’s leading the White Hills team as Centre Manager.
Where it all started
Before moving into early childhood, she worked at a local special school for nearly 10 years and studied disability support. Her passion for working with children has always been there and that’s what eventually led her to complete her Certificate III and Diploma in Early Childhood Education.
Learning through play (and yes, sometimes it gets messy)
When it comes to teaching, she’s all about play-based learning. She believes kids learn best when they’re exploring and having fun, and let’s be honest, she says, a bit of mess just means they’re fully into it! She also never wants to lose that sense of imagination we all had as kids
Everyone learns in different ways and if a child is not learning the way we teach change the way we teach.
Big on belonging
Her main goal as a centre manager? Making sure every single family feels welcome and supported. Whether you’ve just started or you’ve been part of the centre for years, she’s keen to build real connections with the whole community.
Who inspired her most?
Some of her biggest influences go right back to her own childhood. Her prep teacher was incredibly caring and supportive, and her grade 3 teacher was someone everyone went to for everything; he was always ready with a listening ear and a good joke. Then there was a student support teacher who never judged and always led with compassion. From them, she learned the importance of kindness, passion, and meeting people where they’re at. Everyone learns in their own way and at their own pace and if a child isn’t learning the way we teach, then it’s up to us to change how we teach.
The best part of the job
For her, the most rewarding thing is being part of each child’s learning journey. No matter what stage they’re at. Seeing their confidence grow and celebrating little (and big) wins is what it’s all about.
Outside of work
When she’s not at the centre, you’ll probably find her at the beach with her family. It doesn’t matter which beach, she just loves being by the ocean and explore things. That makes her happy!
Pop in and say hello
We’re so happy that Janelle took the step to Centre Manager at White Hills. She’s already off to a great start! Don't forget to say hi next time you’re in, Janelle loves a chat!
