FDC educator Kerri Fortescue nominated for FDCA Excellence award

Victorian family day care (FDC) educator Kerri Fortescue has been nominated in the national Family Day Care Awards after working as an educator for Corangamite Shire Council for 13 years.

Ms Fortescue said she finds her work incredibly rewarding, estimating that she’s helped to educate and care for more than 100 children from six months to eight years across the span of her time in the sector. 

“I love that family day care gives me the opportunity to invite people into my own life and to become part of theirs,” she said.

“I can offer hours that suit families’ needs. One child starts at 6.10 am on a Sunday and that is OK. Children see my family day care as a second home. Many family drawings have me in it which is lovely.”

Having also worked in long day care settings, Ms Fortescue said the opportunity to work with children one on one and in small groups is a big plus in the FDC setting. 

“In my program I like to include community involvement. We try and go out every day — whether it’s for a bike ride or to attend YAK (Young Active Kids), library or play groups — so children can make new friends in their community,” she explained.

She did a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care in 2012 and three years ago finished a Diploma which she had juggled with work and raising her own family.

Council Child Care & Family Day Care Pedagogical Lead Michelle Maraldo said the nomination was very well deserved.

“She has come a long way. Kerrie has put a lot of effort into learning new things and welcomes change,” she said, wishing her all the best on behalf of the Council.

Regional award winners will be announced on Tuesday 24 August, National finalists on 13 September, and the National winner at the end of October. 

More information about the awards is available here.