Guardian Blackburn South fosters positivity with lucky dips and other initiatives

Early childhood education and care (ECEC) service Guardian Blackburn South in Victoria has made a commitment to ensuring each of its team members feels welcome, supported and valued through a range of positive culture initiatives. 

The Victorian service was recently recognised by the broader Guardian network as “a shining example” of how fostering a positive team culture can transform a service. 

To encourage peer recognition, the Blackburn South team introduced a ‘lucky dip’ system, where every five shout-outs on Guardian’s GStar rewards and recognition program can earn team members a chance at fun prizes, something which Centre Manager Ashleigh Curnow said is having a big impact on how each team member feels valued and appreciated. 

There are a number of other team building initiatives which take place in the service, including welcoming new team members by making fun locker tags, celebrating team members on their birthday with a personalised gift bag, and a communal message board that allows families and teammates to share personal messages. 

Every month the service comes together for special morning teas or lunches to celebrate all the staff birthdays happening that month, and wellbeing is prioritised through the giving of wellbeing tokens which are awarded to recognise exceptional efforts or provide much-needed support. 

These tokens grant extra breaks, planning time, or time in lieu, recognising the importance of being mindful that everyone has life outside of the Centre and a healthy work-life balance is important.

To support the team with professional growth Ms Curnow has also created a list of words and phrases that use ‘exceeding’ language. This supports team members in their interactions with children and families. 

When others from the Guardian network visit the centre, the Blackburn South team compile key take-away messages that they share to help support best practice. During team meetings senior team members are asked to speak on a particular topic to support professional growth. 

Team members recently expressed gratitude for being able to have flexibility around their studies, for continuous support, and for the opportunity to be involved in the VIT mentoring programme. 

Learn more about Guardian Blackburn South here.