Our Staff
At Possums' we maintain staffing levels greater than the minimum regulatory requirements, this includes:
- 4 qualified early childhood teachers (one in each room plus the Director)
- 2 diploma qualified staff
- 2 certificate III qualified staff
- 8 child care workers
- 1 administrative staff person
- 1 fully qualified cook
- At least 1 volunteer worker at any point in time
In addition to the permanent staff, we constantly welcome students practicing during their early childhood studies, both from within Australia and from overseas.
Staff Levels
High staffing levels allow for more individualised and one-to-one interactions with children. However, Possums' Corner is still competitively priced as fees cover the centre's operational costs only (Possums' Corner does not make any profit being a community-based not-for-profit service).
Staff Turnover
Possums' has stable and consistent staffing levels, with the majority of staff employed at the centre between 3 - 9 years.
Staff Training and In-Service
Staff regularly attend industry specific courses to keep up to date with current theories and practices in early childhood. Possums' has a generous staff professional development budget to ensure that staff skills and knowledge are current. Courses include compulsory units such as: first aid, occupational health and safety, child protection, manual handling, food handling and asthma. Staff also select courses to enhance current skills, or based on particular interests or needs.
Focus on the Children
Our staff interact with children respectfully and meaningfully, ensuring that children feel safe, secure and happy everyday. A nurturing and supportive environment is created by warm, sensitive and responsive communication.
At Possums’ we maintain portfolios for each child: including developmental summaries, work samples, photographs, evaluations, developmental goals.
Staff work effectively and collaboratively with families and relevant agencies to support children with additional needs.
