Onsite early learning supports Cobram Secondary College teachers 

The establishment of an onsite early learning facility at Victoria’s Cobram Secondary College is supporting teachers at the school to have a stronger work-life balance. 

New mother Lillian Dunn is a maths teacher at the school, who has welcomed the introduction of Little Thinkers, an onsite family day care service which was the brainchild of Principal Kimberley Tempest, who wanted to do more to support her teachers who were returning from parental leave. 

“Addressing the needs of mothers with young children is a game changer,” Ms Tempest said.

“Our onsite day care makes a difference in the work-life balance of young mothers, keeping them in the workforce, and increasing their access to superannuation and leadership opportunities.”

For Ms Dunn, being able to spend her work day in close proximity to one year old daughter Cleo has reduced the guilt she felt about returning to work. 

“I love having my daughter close to me while I work,” she said. “It reduces the guilt of leaving her with someone else. I couldn’t feel more supported knowing that Cleo is in safe hands, right next door to my classroom.”

Little Thinkers was Victoria’s inaugural family day care service to operate inside a secondary school when it opened in July this year, educating and caring for four children. 

Educator Chelsea is a former Cobram Secondary College student, and is said to be ‘hugely popular’ with the children in her care. 

“The right educator is the best part about this,” Ms Dunn confirmed.

“Cleo loves coming in here, and we just love Chelsea. There’s less stress for me, trying to leave the house earlier to drop her somewhere further away. And I love being able to just pop in and see her whenever I need.”