Lily returns to the service that fostered her love of education, ready to inspire others

Freya Lucas

Jun 27, 2024

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When Lily left Papilio Early Learning Hunters Hill in 2007 to start school, her educators wished her safe travels, not knowing that before too long she would return to inspire a new generation of learners.

Lily recently joined the service as a trainee, working in the nursery room with Lead Educator’s Debbie - who is celebrating her 28th year with the service this year - and Kasmah.

“It’s so special seeing Lily return as a beautiful young woman keen to make a difference in children’s lives as an educator – and I feel very privileged to still be here and able to encourage her in her career,” Debbie said.

Both Debbie and Kasmah are mentoring Lily as she progresses through her Certificate III in Early Education and Care, supported by the Affinity Learning Academy.

“Kazmah and I feel like proud mums and we are excited to see the next generation of early childhood educators being supported by Affinity,” Debbie said.

Lily is enjoying her fully funded training supported by a dedicated Development Coach, and loving the advice and support of her team.

“I absolutely love my Centre Manager Zoe – she started off as a trainee just like me and gives me so much encouragement and support to explore my passions and interests with children,” Lily said.

“It’s great working for Affinity because the team just keep telling me ‘you can do it!’ and giving me all the support I need. I love the resources, the learning modules and the Lifelong Learning Curriculum really helps me understand how I can guide and support children.”

Learn more about Affinity Early Learning traineeships here.

Image features (L-R) Debbie, Lily and Kazmah.

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