As soon as she walked through the doors of a newly built Centre in Sunshine North for the first time in early 2008, Jigsaw Childcare manager Bronwyn Ryan instantly saw the potential of the Centre and was excited for the journey that lay ahead.
“That was nine-and-a-half years ago and I look back and remember the empty building and feel so proud of what we have created,” Bronwyn says.
Able to care for a maximum of 159 children a day, Jigsaw Childcare offers developmental and educational programs for ages six weeks to six years, including a music program, yoga, a well-being program, school readiness and a government-funded kindergarten program.
“Giving children messages of respect, love, approval and encouragement and enabling them to develop a positive sense of who they are, are just some of the things I love about my job,” Bronwyn says.
“I feel a wonderful sense of belonging every time I enter the doors at Jigsaw.
“I am fortunate to have a professional team to work with each and every day, a reliable and supportive management team and our enthusiastic and respectful educators working together to provide the best possible environment for children to learn their lifelong skills.
“We believe in continuity of care from our educators and staff who are familiar to the children to ensure quality programs, interactions and environments for the children.
“We believe that the role of our team at Jigsaw Childcare is to be education facilitators
who support, guide and encourage children’s learning at the child’s developmental level and pace.”
Jayne Sladden has been the director of the centre since it opened, and she says it feels like a home-away-from-home.
“I feel as though I belong here … I love working with children. I love their spontaneity, love of life, watching them grow and watching them achieve their milestones,” she says. “I believe that all children have the right to feel safe, cared for and treated as individuals.
“As educators we need to really know what makes the children in our care happy, comfortable and interested in their learning.
“I am privileged to be leading a team of professionals who are dedicated to instilling a sense of belonging and self-value into children as well as preparing them for lifelong learning.”
The centre has fantastic outdoor spaces for children to run around and explore, one of the many reasons parents choose Jigsaw Childcare.
“We worked really hard to bring natural elements into the centre,” Bronwyn says. “We’ve planted fruit trees, have a mud patch and a natural grassed area. It’s a lot of fun and, developmentally, really important.”
Bronwyn and Jayne encourage families to book a centre tour and see all the great things the centre has on offer. Mention this story when booking two days a week or more for a minimum of four consecutive weeks (commencing by January 19) and receive the next week free. The number of free days received for that week is equal to the number of days booked at the initial enrolment.
Jigsaw Childcare, 185 Phoenix Street, Sunshine North. Open 6.30am-6pm Monday-Friday. Inquiries: 9312 7896 or visit www.jigsawcare.com.au
