Nicole has working in early learning for almost 2 years and holds a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.

Over to Nicole…

I love working in early education and care because I am passionate about children’s right to have a positive learning experience, to feel safe, secure and nurtured. It is important to me that children feel a sense of trust and security when in my care. It is a privilege to be a part of a critical time in a childs life of learning, sense of belonging and developing personalities. I believe children have choices in their learning and it is my role to recognise children’s individual strengths and interests and provide opportunities that facilitate learning through play.

Throughout my career, I’ve been most proud of the bonds I have made with the children and helping them to reach milestones and achieve their goals.

When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy spending time with family and friends, reformer pilates and reading.

One of the beautiful moments in my teaching career is when I arrive at Choklits in the morning and a child comes running up to me with a big smile and a hug to say hello. It’s a beautiful feeling that they are happy to see you!

Holly has just began her career in early learning, is an Educator at Choklits in Croydon and she holds a Cert III in Early Childhood Education.

Over to Holly…

I love working in early education and care because I genuinely believe the early years are the most important in a child’s life. I’m passionate about being a consistent, nurturing presence for children during this time and helping them feel safe, confident, and valued. My personal philosophy is centred on connection, respect, and learning through play. I believe each child is capable and unique, and that it’s our role as educators to support their individuality, encourage curiosity, and help build strong foundations for their future. Creating calm, supportive environments where children can explore at their own pace is something I really care about.

Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of starting my first official role in early education at Choklits. It’s a huge milestone for me and something I’ve worked hard to achieve through my studies and personal growth. One of my proudest moments was when a very shy child I had been working with started to open up, smile more, and feel confident coming to me for comfort and play. It reminded me why I chose this career and how even small moments can have a big impact.

When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy travelling to new places, exploring different cultures, and making memories along the way. I also love spending time reading whether it’s a good novel or something to help me grow personally or professionally. And of course, I enjoy shopping! I find it fun and relaxing, whether it’s picking out something new or just window shopping with friends. These things help me recharge and stay inspired both in and out of the workplace.

The cutest, funniest or most beautiful thing a child has ever said to me was when a little one grabbed my hand during outdoor play and said, “You’re my best friend now.” It was such a simple sentence, but it meant so much. It made me feel so appreciated and reminded me how quickly strong, trusting bonds can form when children feel safe and supported. Moments like that remind me why I love this work they’re pure, honest, and filled with so much heart.

Gurpreet has worked in early learning for almost 6 months and is an Educator at Choklits in Croydon. He holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care. Prior to this, he completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology and Systems.

Over to Gurpreet…

I love working in early education and care because it allows me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young children during their most formative years; my personal philosophy centers on fostering a nurturing, inclusive, and child-centered environment where every child feels safe, respected, and inspired to learn. I believe that by building strong relationships with children and their families, celebrating diversity, and encouraging curiosity through play-based learning, I can help lay the foundation for lifelong success and well-being. Witnessing children’s growth, confidence, and joy as they discover new skills and friendships is incredibly rewarding, and knowing that I play a part in shaping their future motivates me every day to be a compassionate, reflective, and dedicated educator.

Throughout my early education placements, I’ve been most proud of the positive impact I’ve made by building trusting relationships with children and educators, helping shy children join in, and supporting children’s learning and confidence through encouragement and inclusion. I take pride in my efforts to create a welcoming environment for every child, as well as receiving positive feedback from families and supervisors. Now, as I begin my first official role as an early childhood teacher, I feel excited and proud to step into this new chapter – applying what I’ve learned and looking forward to making a real difference in children’s lives every day.

When I’m not at Choklits, I really enjoy spending quality time with my family, reading a good book, and traveling to new places to experience different cultures and ideas. I also love playing cricket – it keeps me active, helps me connect with friends, and reminds me of the importance of teamwork and having fun. These hobbies and interests help me relax and bring fresh energy and inspiration to my work every day.

One of the most touching moments from my placement happened at the end of my very last shift. As I was getting ready to leave, all the children came running up to me for a big group hug. Their smiles, laughter, and the warmth of their hugs made me feel so appreciated and showed me just how much our time together had meant to them. It was a truly special and emotional moment that reminded me why I love working with children – the genuine connections we build and the joy we share, even in just a short time. That experience at the end of my shift is something I’ll always treasure as I move forward in my early education journey.

Rachel has worked in early learning for 2 months and is an Educator at Choklits in Croydon. She holds a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education.

Over to Rachel…

I love working in early education and care because I love supporting children with their individual needs and the children’s bring the joyfulness and happiness to me.

Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of -taking care of children and see their progress development.

When I’m not at Choklits, I enjoy doing exercises and spending time with my family.

The cutest or most beautiful thing a child has ever said to me was “Come sit next to me”.

Emad has worked in early learning for 1 year and is an Educator at Choklits in Croydon. He holds a Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education and a Bachelor of Business in Marketing.

Over to Emad…

I love working in early childhood education and care because it gives true purpose to my life. In my personal philosophy, I believe that being part of a child’s early years – the most crucial stage of their growth and development – can make a lasting difference in their lives. I feel privileged to play a role in shaping their learning journey, whether it’s through teaching, playing, or simply being present for them. What drives me is the opportunity to inspire and support the next generation, helping them grow into confident, capable individuals.

Throughout my career in early childhood education and care, I have taken the greatest pride in designing and implementing meaningful activities tailored to the individual needs of children and the specific dynamics of each room. I dedicate time and effort to ensure that every experience I plan is engaging and impactful. I am especially passionate about using recycled and sustainable materials to create purposeful learning opportunities, promoting creativity and environmental awareness in the process.

Jesse has worked in early learning for 2 years and is an Educator at Choklits in Croydon. He is currently completing his Certificate III as an apprentice in Early Childhood Education and Care.

Over to Jesse…

I love working in early education and care because I find the work extremely fulfilling and enjoyable. Its a true joy of mine, coming to work and getting greeted at the door by lots of smiles and hugs and being able to go forth and make a positive impact on the development and happiness of the kids in the room.

Although my career in childcare is still in its early stages, I’m proud of the meaningful moments and growth I’ve experienced so far. An example of one of these moments is being asked to run the choklits activate program, which I planned and executed for about 6 months.

The funniest thing a child has ever said to me was when me and a kinder 4 were discussing birthdays and what she was doing for her party. She asked me if I was going to come, and when I said I couldn’t, she said with a very dramatic sigh “well I don’t even want a party any more”.

TK has worked in early learning for 3 years and is an Educator at Choklits in Croydon. He holds a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.

Over to TK…

I love working in early education and care because it allows me to help shape children’s early experiences, build their confidence, and nurture their curiosity. I believe every child is unique and learns best in a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where they feel valued. My philosophy is to guide children through play-based learning, encouraging creativity, independence, and a love for learning that will last a lifetime.

Throughout my career, I’ve been most proud of creating meaningful connections with children and their families, watching children grow in confidence and skills, and contributing to a positive, nurturing learning environment. I’ve celebrated milestones such as supporting children to reach developmental goals, introducing creative learning activities that sparked curiosity, and building trusting relationships that made families feel valued and supported.

When I’m not at Choklits, I love spending time with my family, going for walks, cooking, singing, and getting creative with crafts.

The cutest, funniest, or most beautiful thing a child has ever said to me was when a little child looked up at me with the biggest smile and said, “You’re my best friend.” It was so simple, but it meant the world to me. In that moment, I felt seen, trusted, and loved in the purest way. There’s nothing quite like being someone’s safe place – especially in a child’s eyes.

Theresa has worked in early learning for 2 years and is an Educator at Choklits in Croydon. She is currently working towards her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.

Over to Theresa …

I love working in early education and care because I enjoy supporting children’s growth and development, watching them learn new skills, and helping them build confidence in a nurturing environment.

Throughout my career, I’ve been most proud of the positive relationships I’ve built with children and their families, and the meaningful impact I’ve made in supporting each child’s learning, confidence, and sense of belonging.

When I’m not at Choklits, I enjoy going shopping, staying at home, and spending time with my family.

The cutest, funniest, or most beautiful thing a child has ever said to me was when I was playing with some kids and one of them ran toward me and shouted my Burmese name, saying, “Bawi Cing!” I was laughing and surprised. It was the cutest thing – how he called my name and tried to pronounce it.

Gemma holds a Certificate III in Business Administration and a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care. She serves as our 2IC and Administrator at Choklits Croydon.

Over to Gemma…

I take great pride in the extensive knowledge and skills I have acquired throughout my career in administration. Beginning my journey as a young, nervous 18-year-old receptionist, I have since developed a profound sense of confidence and built a diverse skill set that has enabled me to excel in my role today.

I have always been passionate about early education and care, as it offers the unique privilege of witnessing children’s remarkable growth and development. I am grateful for the knowledge and growth that the Choklits family has given me.

Outside of my responsibilities at Choklits, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and friends, teaching dance, reading, camping and hiking.

One of the most heartwarming moments I’ve experienced was when one of my young dancers surprised me with drawings they had made for my wedding. They had envisioned themselves as flower girls and even designed my wedding dress. It was a truly touching and unforgettable moment that highlighted the deep connections we build with the children in our care.

Savannah is the Centre Manager at Choklits Croydon and has been working in Early Childhood and Care for over 7 years. She holds a Bachelor of Psychology, an Advanced Diploma in Community Sector Management, a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.

Over to Savannah…

I consider Early Childhood Education and Care a profession. In the first years of a child’s life, their brain development will create the foundations for all learning and development later in life. It is truly amazing to think that I am helping to shape children and fostering their development, establishing their curiosity and wonder of life and learning. I believe that the development of a child’s imagination is crucial because as Vygotsky so rightly says it “is an important component of absolutely all aspects of cultural life, enabling artistic, scientific, and technical creation alike.” It is said that through imagination we develop new ideas and this is one of the reasons why I love working in Early Childhood Education, because new ideas do not come from nowhere; they are based on our experience, combined with our imaginative faculties. Ensuring that we support the children allows for the next generation to thrive. There is a great amount of evidence to support the fact that early investments in children’s health, education, and development have benefits that compound throughout the child’s lifetime, for their future children, and society as a whole. Successful societies invest in their children and protect their rights, as is evident from countries that have done well on health and economic measures over the past few decades.

I began my career coaching netball assisting teams to win grand-finals. Watching the children’s faces beam with pride and joy opened my eyes to the possibilities of Early Childhood Education and Care. Whilst studying, I started as an educator, progressing to a room leader, an educational leader, administrator/2IC and now to being the Centre Manager at Choklits Croydon. This has been a great achievement as every aspect has provided a completely different approach and allowed me to gain insight into the lives, ambitions and futures of children, families, the community and my fellow educators.

When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy spending time with my family, my huskies Luna, Zeus, Rocco and Loki, my cat Tiffany, playing netball and reading.

Children are truly wonderful, the mind of a child shows that despite all they have seen, they don’t exclude the thoughts and opinions of others, no matter their size or age. I believe that teachers learn from their students, we are continuously learning and extending ourselves in more ways than one. Children’s brains are like sponges, absorbing everything going on around them. Every little thing they soak in builds connections in their brain. One of the most important ways you can build your child’s brain connections is to talk and listen. Children love to learn and so I ensure that I provide them with as much information as I can. When I first started the children in my toddler room were studying the solar system, later on when they grew up and I watched these children graduate from kindergarten, the group shared a fact they learned, one child said “The solar system has 8 planets, many moons, asteroids, comets, dust and so much of gas and they all orbit the sun.” After the ceremony, the child’s parents approached me to tell me that the child continuously spoke about space and the solar system and how much he loved it. I was so thrilled to think that I had made an impact on the child’s learning and life even after a few years.

One of the most heartwarming experiences I have had was when a child I had looked after years ago asked me to go and watch them do their BMX race.