Meet Steph, Deanside Village’s New Centre Manager!
Aspire Deanside Village’s new Centre Manager, Stephanie Blake, is a new friendly face to the Aspire team. In today's world, early childhood education plays a crucial role in shaping young minds and setting the foundation for lifelong learning. One individual making a significant impact in this field is Steph, whose unique journey into early education is both inspiring and insightful. With a background in criminology and criminal justice, Steph discovered her passion for early childhood education early in her career. Over the years, she has transitioned seamlessly into various roles within the industry, culminating in her current position as Centre Manager at Aspire Deanside Village.
Steph’s story begins not in a classroom, but rather in the study of criminology. Initially drawn to the intricacies of criminal justice, she soon realised that her true calling lay in shaping the lives of young children. This turning point led her to pursue a Certificate III and a Diploma in Early Childhood Education, marking the start of a fulfilling career dedicated to nurturing and educating the next generation.
With several years of experience under her belt, Steph has embraced various roles in the early education sector. Her most notable achievement has been serving in management for the past seven years. As the Centre Manager at Aspire, she has taken on the responsibility of not just overseeing operations but also fostering a nurturing environment where children can thrive. Her ambition to achieve an 'Exceeding' rating during the assessment and rating period reflects her commitment to excellence and her desire to provide the best possible outcomes for the children and families she serves.
Steph’s educational approach is heavily influenced by renowned learning theories, particularly the work of Jean Piaget. Piaget’s belief that “play is the answer to the question, 'how does anything new come about?'” resonates deeply with her teaching philosophy. Recognising the importance of play in learning, Steph promotes an environment where curiosity and exploration are encouraged.
In addition to Piaget's foundational theories, she draws inspiration from Sarah Louise Gandolfo’s insights on inclusion and anti-bias practices. These philosophies inform her strategies for creating a welcoming space for all children, ensuring that each feels valued and understood.
As a Centre Manager, one of Steph's central goals is to cultivate a nurturing atmosphere within the centre. She understands the importance of building strong relationships with children and their families. By fostering open communication and collaboration, Steph aims to create a sense of community that enhances the learning experience. Through engaging activities and thoughtful programming, she strives to make a positive impact on the children's development and learning journeys.
One of Steph's favourite aspects of her role is the opportunity to meet families and become a part of the children's lives. She finds immense joy in witnessing their growth, celebrating their milestones, and being a guiding force in their educational journeys. Making a difference in how children learn and develop is what drives her passion for early childhood education.
When she’s not busy managing the centre, Steph makes time for personal pursuits that bring her joy and balance. Dance, yoga, and cooking are essential aspects of her well-being. Engaging in these activities allows her to recharge and maintain her passion for her work. Steph believes that to foster an enriching environment for children, she must also prioritise her own mental and physical health.
Steph’s journey from criminology to early childhood education is a testament to the transformative power of pursuing one’s passion. As a Centre Manager at Aspire, she embodies the principles of effective education and leadership, guided by influential philosophies and a strong commitment to nurturing children. Steph is looking forward to getting to know the families at Aspire Deanside Village and strengthen her community connections.
Want to join the Aspire team? Check out all available roles at the link below:
