Lismore and the Northern Rivers region have faced a significant childcare shortage for several years. The situation worsened after the 2022 floods, forcing many parents to drive long distances to find childcare. Some turned to grandparents for help, while others delayed returning to work.
However, solutions are emerging. The Rous Road Centre in Goonellabah is currently under construction, and a new facility at the Goonellabah Shopping Centre has been approved. Recently, the Explorers School of Early Learning Childcare and Preschool Centre reopened in South Lismore and is now accepting children.
Sean Cornell, who oversees management and compliance for Explorers, brings extensive experience in childcare. He founded the Learning Cottage on Keen Street in 2018. The South Lismore location was previously the Possums Early Education Centre before the floods. When the opportunity arose to lease the building and reintroduce childcare to the area, Sean eagerly embraced it.
“I wanted to focus on bringing Explorers to life,” he said. “This is an opportunity to reinvent the industry by returning to basics, such as providing food services.”
Sean emphasized three key areas for Explorers: offering the most qualified educators, enhancing outdoor environments for nature-based play, and ensuring nutritious meals for children.
The childcare sector has faced criticism for the low wages of qualified early childhood educators. In response, the federal government announced a 15% pay increase last week to attract and retain talent. However, Sean stated that Explorers is going even further.
“The quality of educators greatly impacts children’s well-being,” Sean explained. “We recognize that pay has not kept pace with living costs. That’s why we have raised salaries to 25% above the industry award, which translates to an additional $1,000 per month for experienced educators.”
Explorers offers flexible benefits, including four extra paid days off or funding for personal development. The center also focuses on continuous improvement, supporting educators in achieving higher qualifications and fostering a positive team culture.
When asked why Explorers can offer higher wages compared to other centers, Sean stated, “We want to impact the industry and lead by example. We have the advantage of approaching the industry with fresh eyes, identifying community needs, and establishing best practices.”
For parents seeking childcare, Explorers provides four distinct rooms: a nursery for children under two, a toddler room, a junior room, and a preschool room. “We emphasize a school readiness program that helps children reach developmental milestones, fostering their curiosity and confidence,” Sean said. “We look at each child holistically to support their growth during this crucial transition.”
The center boasts a spacious outdoor area with a playground, garden beds, and a sandpit for exploration. “Maximizing outdoor time helps children connect with nature and balance indoor learning activities,” Sean noted. “The more time they spend outside in a pleasant environment, the more settled they become.”
Sean also highlighted the importance of nutrition. Explorers has a fully equipped kitchen, where all meals are prepared on-site. “Nutrition is crucial,” he said. “We provide balanced meals, such as mushroom stroganoff, healthy dahl, taco bowls, and beef bolognese. Our qualified cook designs menus tailored to children’s needs, accommodating dietary restrictions like gluten-free and vegetarian options.”
Currently, Explorers can accommodate 70 children, with 20-25 attending from two to five days a week based on individual family needs. “We have the capacity to grow and will hire more educators as needed,” Sean added.
The staff includes qualified educators with various credentials, from bachelor’s degrees to diplomas. Kathleen Trickett, the center’s director and an early childhood teacher with over 15 years of experience, looks forward to mentoring new educators. “I can guide others in this field,” she said. “Many educators leave for primary school positions, but I remain committed to inspiring others to teach and engage in children’s learning.”
Alanna, an educator at Explorers, shared her experience with professional development. “When I asked for support to complete my Diploma, Explorers signed me up the next day. We have a great culture here, with everyone invested in our growth.”
Sean summarized Explorers’ philosophy: “Great educators are trusted advisors to families. We focus on developmental programs that support children from their early years through school, helping them navigate challenges like the ‘terrible twos.’”
The center offers traineeships, allowing educators with Cert III qualifications to advance to Diplomas while receiving time off for study. Kathleen added, “We aim for a growth journey, ensuring consistency as educators care for children and support their development. Watching children grow and achieve milestones is incredibly rewarding.”
Explorers also welcomes local high school graduates interested in entering the childcare field. “We’re looking for experienced educators and supporting new entrants,” Sean said. “Many people are seeking a fresh approach to the industry, whether they are career changers or new to childcare.”
Explorers School of Early Learning is located at 45 Wilson Street, South Lismore, near Lismore South Primary School. They are actively recruiting staff and encourage interested candidates to apply. For parents seeking childcare, more information is available on their website.
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