Welcoming Gaya - Aspire Pakenham’s New Centre Manager!
We are thrilled to announce Gaya Bandara as the new Centre Manager at Aspire Early Education and Kindergarten Pakenham. Gaya has a wealth of experience in the Early Education industry, taking on various roles before stepping into management. As a very knowledge leader, we so thrilled to have her as part of the Aspire Pakenham family!
Learn more about Gaya’s career journey, her passion for industry, and what she has enjoyed most about working at Aspire Pakenham so far.
I moved to Australia in 2009 and began my career in Early Childhood Education at the age of 19. As a newcomer to the industry, those first few years were a period of immense learning and growth. The transition to the Early Years Learning Framework during this time was a pivotal moment, opening my eyes to a whole new level of early childhood education.
Starting as a trainee educator, I was inspired to deepen my knowledge and skills, leading me to complete my Diploma of Early Childhood Education. This accomplishment paved the way for my role as a Room Leader/Lead Educator. Throughout my career, I have worn many hats in the early childhood sector, including assistant educator, cook, relief staff, before and after-school care, lead educator, and management roles.
Before joining Aspire, I was a Centre Manager at another service, where I gained invaluable experience and insight into the multifaceted world of early childhood education.
I've always been inspired to be a part of the early years of children's learning. A strong and proper start to life lays the foundation for our little ones' futures. Children have an innate desire to be heard and seen, and I have always wanted to be a part of that crucial developmental stage. Being able to contribute to their growth and education is not just a career for me; it's a calling.
There's nothing more rewarding than seeing children learn, grow, and become good citizens. Words can't capture the joy of discovering, later in life, that you've played a part in shaping those children during their early years, helping to lay the foundation for their future. Being part of their journey from the start is an indescribable honor and privilege.
Working with children brings unparalleled happiness. Their genuine and honest laughter is contagious, filling each day with joy. Being able to support their development and growth is incredibly fulfilling, as you help shape their futures and witness their progress firsthand.
I believe each child is unique, with their own distinct learning styles. As an educator, my goal is to identify and understand these individual learning preferences to provide the most effective education possible. By tailoring my approach to each child's needs, I can better support their growth and development, ensuring they reach their full potential.
I have spent most of my time supporting children and families through meaningful connections at Pakenham. At Aspire, we are dedicated to building strong relationships with our communities, families, and children. I love that Aspire goes above and beyond to foster these connections, ensuring that everyone feels supported and valued. Through this commitment, I continue to create a nurturing environment where children can thrive.
Outside of work, I cherish spending time with my family, especially my two beautiful boys and husband. I love to bake and often find myself creating delicious cakes for friends and family. Additionally, I enjoy face painting, adding a touch of creativity and fun to special occasions. These activities bring joy and balance to my life, complementing my professional passion for early childhood education.
If you’d like to meet Gaya and explore our Aspire Pakenham centre, book a tour today here or contact us on 1800 978 429.
