When Kandas was the Assistant Centre Manager at Kids Academy Warnervale almost three years ago, she delighted families with her professionalism, her commitment to their children’s education, and her drive to go above and beyond. Families were sad to see her go when she relocated to sister-centre Milestones Budgewoi as acting Centre Manager. Now, after excelling in this role, Kandas will be returning to Kids Academy Warnervale as the new Centre Manager.
Previous Centre Manager Carlye is sad to be moving on but is confident the centre is in the most capable hands. Carlye will also continue her relationship with the centre community in her new role as Area Manager.
We spoke with Kandas to learn a little more about her role.
Hi Kandas! Can you tell us a little bit about your professional history and how you came to be the Centre Manager of Kids Academy Warnervale?
I studied a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) and began working as a multi-grade teacher in 2010. In 2012 I made the move to Early Childhood and I haven’t looked back!
I ultimately worked my way up to the Assistant Centre Management position at Kids Academy Warnervale. After two years, I was offered to fill the role of Centre Manager at Milestones Early Learning Budgewoi to fill the Centre Manager role on a maternity contract. I held this role for two years before I was offered the Centre Manager role at Kids Academy Warnervale, which I happily accepted. I am now furthering my expertise by studying a Certificate III in Business Management.
You’re clearly a passionate educator. What else do you enjoy about your role?
Being part of the Affinity Education Group — who and operate Lifelong Learning Centres — has opened up amazing opportunities for me. I’ve been a Room Leader, Assistant Centre Manager, and now Centre Manager! I’ve also had opportunities to assist other centres and with accounts management. I feel that this experience has made me an even stronger Educator and Centre Manager.
Have you experienced any challenges in your Early Childhood Education career?
Taking on the role of Assistant Centre Manager offered a new set of challenges – going from a teacher to operating the business side was a big learning curve.
Who supported you through those challenges?
My Centre Manager was a fabulous, supportive teacher! It’s also great to work in a supportive community – if you have a question or need to talk something through, you pick up the phone and you’ve got a supportive Area Manager or other local Lifelong Learning Centre Managers who are always happy to help.
Tell us about your centre – what do you love the most about it?
Kids Academy Warnervale is an amazing centre! Our team is passionate, supportive, and love our children and their families. We really are a community. It’s great to be part of this service and to be taking on this leadership role.
Our expert early childhood educators understand the amazing learning potential of every child. Our Lifelong Learning approach is practised by all Lifelong Learning Centres across Australia, with each centre offering high-quality, research-driven programs for children from 6 weeks to school age.