Zelma Taylor celebrates 36 years of caring for children at Winifred Nance

2023 is a special year for Educator Zelma Taylor, one where she celebrates more than 36 years of educating and caring for children in her role at Winifred Nance Kindergarten.

Ms Taylor has taught generations of the same family and observed many changes in the early childhood sector such as the introduction of the National Quality Framework, the transition from volunteer committee-run service to Early Years Management operated and recent reforms such as funded three-year-old kindergarten and free kindergarten.

A mother of two, Ms Taylor was drawn to working in early childhood education and care (ECEC) because she wanted a role that allowed her more time with her children. Her sons are now grown and she has two granddaughters.

When asked what has kept her at Winifred Nance for so many years, Ms Taylor said the love for the role and the impact she could make on children attending the kindergarten was a huge motivator.

“I love being able to nurture the children and help them on their educational pathways, it’s something I love doing so I keep coming back,” she said.

“Each year you see the children come in at the start of the year and by the end they’ve changed so much, they’ve bloomed, ready to continue their educational learning, if we can be part of that love for what they’re learning that’s good.”

Julie Molloy, Manager Early Years Education and Community for Barwon Child, Family and Youth (BCYF) described Ms Taylor as an integral part of the Winifred Nance team “whose musical abilities have been enjoyed by children for many years, with them gathering around her at the piano”.

“She has a calm, gentle and nurturing nature when engaging with children that is valued by children, families and her colleagues,” Ms Molloy said.

“We thank Zelma for her enormous contribution toward positive educational outcomes for the children in her care over the past 36 years. The Colac community and BCYF are fortunate to have such a passionate Early Childhood professional working at Winifred Nance.”