Margaret Ferrier is an advocate for early learning and for senior workers

Early Childhood Teacher Margaret Ferrier, who works for Goodstart Early Learning Berowra, was named Goodstarter of the Year in 2022, an award which honours extraordinary individuals from Goodstart centres who go above and beyond to deliver greatly improve outcomes for children and families.

 

Ms Ferrier has worked at Goodstart Berowra since Goodstart was founded (in 2010), and is well known for the impact she has had on “countless children and families” in the local community.

 

Goodstart Berowra Centre Director Karen Wallis said Margaret’s ability to capture the attention of, and involve every child is something “that you simply cannot explain properly in words, and just watching her at work is incredible to behold”.

 

At 69 years young, Ms Ferrier remains active in the life of the service, who describe her as “an extraordinary and invaluable team member with a relentless passion and dedication to children”.

 

“Through her love of art, design and literacy, Margaret has inspired many children to learn through self-expression and creativity, producing props for plays and storytelling and understanding artistic methods even at such a young age,” Ms Wallis said.

 

“The children who have been taught by Margaret have a noticeable level of confidence, self-esteem, self-discipline, a real passion to want to learn more while being respectful to their peers and their environment.”

 

Her reputation extends beyond Goodstart, into local schools and even onto TV. Last year Margaret appeared on TV program ‘The Project’ to share her insights as a senior worker (over 65 years of age) making a valuable contribution to the early childhood sector, sharing her story to inspire others.

 

The National Goodies Program is a reward and recognition program to celebrate the Goodstart’s focus on shaping young lives and enriching communities. Learn more about the Goodies here.

 

After the Awards last year Ms Ferrier was interviewed by Goodstart Board Member Sir Kevan Collins, view an excerpt from her interview here.