The Learning Sanctuary Freshwater

Our centre chef prepares and cooks healthy and nutritious meals daily, catering to the unique dietary requirements of every child. We believe that by encouraging active participation (such as growing their own fruit and vegetables, preparing, and finally cooking!) children learn to appreciate and understand the importance of healthy eating.

Our centre offers children nutrient-rich, unprocessed, and seasonal whole foods – created to delight the fussiest eaters.

Hi my name is Leonie, and I am the Centre Manager here at The Learning Sanctuary Freshwater. I started working in the industry in 2016 undertaking a traineeship. I started at Freshwater in 2021 and have been with G8 since 2016. I have a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care and am currently working towards my Bachelor of Education.

One of the things I love most about working in Early Childhood is the opportunity to make a positive impact on children’s lives during these crucial formative years. I have cherish being apart of their learning journey, supporting them as they acquire new skills, develop their personalities, and build a strong foundation for future success.

Early childhood education has taught me that every child is unique with their own strengths, interests, and developmental journey. I have seen how play and hands-on experiences foster children’s curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. I have come to appreciate the profound impact of positive relationships and a nurturing environment on children’s emotional well-being and overall development. I have learned the importance of embracing diversity, promoting inclusion, and fostering a sense of belonging among all children. I have seen firsthand the incredible resilience and adaptability children possess, as they navigate challenges and grow both academically and personally. I have been inspired by their innate joy, enthusiasm, and capacity for growth. As an early childhood educator, I have learned that teaching is not the only aspect of being an educator, but being a facilitator, a guide, and a supporter of children’s self-discovery. My greatest understanding of children’s learning is the importance of play in their learning journey and how it is the most powerful tool we have at our disposal.

I am deeply committed to creating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered. I believe in fostering a love for learning and a sense of curiosity that ignites their natural thirst for knowledge. I value the power of positive relationships and actively work to build strong connections with each child, their families, and the wider community. By fostering open communication and collaboration, I aim to create a shared sense of responsibility in supporting children’s growth and development. I prioritise creating a warm and caring atmosphere where children feel secure to express their thoughts, emotions, and concerns.

While home learning can be beneficial in certain circumstances, early childhood settings offer a comprehensive and specialized approach to support children’s early development and learning. We provide a social environment, access to qualified educators and resources, peer interactions, and a smooth transition to school, all of which contribute to children’s overall growth and readiness for future academic success.

We are incredibly fortunate to have such an amazing team of educators at The Learning Sanctuary Freshwater. Having such dedicated and passionate professionals in our center makes it a truly special place, and we are proud to have them on our team. Every child’s well-being and happiness is of utmost importance to our educators. They understand the importance of building strong relationships and creating a nurturing environment where children feel supported and valued. Children feel a sense of belonging and develop social-emotional skills because of their empathy and compassion. The team builds strong and meaningful relationships with children and families. They create a sense of trust and support, making each child feel valued and appreciated. These deep connections foster a love for learning and contribute to the overall well-being and happiness of the children in our care.

In early childhood education, supporting families and building strong relationships with them is essential for creating a collaborative and nurturing learning environment. I prioritize open and regular communication with families, ensuring that they are informed about their child’s progress, activities, and achievements. I actively seek input from families, valuing their insights and involving them in decision-making processes.