Director/Teacher

Qualifications: Bachelor of Education (Primary), Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

Michelle has worked across primary schools, kindergartens, and early childhood centres, bringing a wealth of experience to her role. She is passionate about building strong, meaningful relationships with children and their families, believing that these connections are the foundation for a child's growth and development.

A lifelong learner, Michelle completed Forest and Nature School Practitioner training while living in Canada, which has deepened her appreciation for outdoor, play-based learning.

At home, Michelle keeps busy with her husband and three sons. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring nature, reading, and spending quality time with family.

Educational Leader/Teacher

Qualification: Bachelor of Education E.C

After graduating and teaching at a local Ipswich school for 6 years, Justine took time off to raise her daughters – both of whom attended Ipswich Kindergarten. As a Kindergarten parent, Justine became involved in the behind-the-scenes operation of the Centre, joining the Management Committee and serving as Secretary for 3 years. Justine then joined the teaching staff in 2016, working in a full time capacity before moving to her current position as Teacher of the Water Dragon group and Educational Leader. Justine enjoys travelling, reading and photography and is kept busy as a dance and netball Mum.

Educator

Qualification: Associate Diploma of Education (Child-Care)

While growing up Ann-Maree frequently visited Queens Park and always dreamed she would work at Ipswich Kindy. That dream came true as she started working as a qualified Educator at Ipswich Kindy in 1998. Ann-Maree is married with two teenage sons. They keep her very busy with weekend sport, camping and fishing. Her favourite things to do are scrapbooking, gardening and hiking with friends.

Educator

Qualification: Certificate III in Children’s Services

Married with two boys, Kristie commenced with Ipswich Kindergarten in 2009. She has worked in the Early Childhood field for 28 years, 23 of these in community kindergartens. In her spare time she supports her boys in football and quad biking and likes to go fishing and camping.

Inclusion Support Assistant

Qualification: Advanced Diploma inCommunity Services (Childrens Services)

Monika has been working in the industry since 1990 with an Advanced Diploma in Community Services (Childrens Services). She began her career at Ipswich Kindergarten in 2004, where she worked until 2011 before taking a 12 year break to run her own business. In 2022, she returned to the Kindy as an Inclusion Support Educator, a role she finds deeply rewarding.

Beyond her professional career, Monika is a mother to two adult children. She and her partner also run a small Droughtmaster stud which keeps them busy.

Administration Manager

Sheryl started her involvement with Ipswich Kindergarten as a parent, as both her daughters attended. As well as being on the Management Committee as Secretary, since January 2005 Sheryl has been employed as the Administration Manager. Sheryl enjoys the gym, spending time with her young adult daughters and hopes to travel more with her husband.

Ipswich Kindergarten Association is administered by a Management Committee made up of volunteer parents with assistance from the Director and staff.

This committee is responsible for the management of the centre, including the short and long term financial management, development and maintenance of the buildings and grounds and the provision of ample and suitable equipment.

The very high standards of early childhood education developed at this centre are a reflection not only of the outstanding personal characteristics of each staff member but also the very close liaison and good working relationships between the staff and committee