Celebrating Career Progression: Jaylea and Andrew’s Inspiring Opportunities with Jenny’s ELC

Freya Lucas

Jan 14, 2025

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Jenny’s ELC takes immense pride in nurturing careers and building a community where everyone feels valued and empowered. Across its services within Bendigo, Geelong and Ballarat, there are countless examples of individuals growing not only in their roles but also as leaders and mentors too.

The Jenny’s team has many Educators who have over 10 years of experience within the local Jenny’s communities, including Jaylea and Andrew Stone, two extraordinary members of the Jenny’s network who have a combined tenure of over 20 years! Their story is a testament to what makes Jenny’s ELC a truly unique and rewarding place to work.

Jaylea: From Centre Director to Training Facilitator

Jaylea’s journey at Jenny’s ELC has been remarkable. As a Bachelor trained Early Childhood Teacher, Jaylea has spent time as a Centre Director at three of the four Bendigo sites, providing a calm, considered and individual approach to leadership including guiding services to Exceeding National Quality Ratings.

She has spent more than 13 years in leadership roles, managing teams of educators who supported hundreds of enrolled children to learn, grow, and thrive every day. Her leadership was marked by her warmth, responsiveness, and unwavering commitment to mentoring her team. Known affectionately as “Work Grandma” by the children, Jaylea’s influence extended far beyond the day-to-day operations of the centres.

Now, with the conservative growth of Jenny’s ELC within Regional Victoria, Jaylea has embraced an exciting new role as Training Facilitator within the Jenny’s network. Drawing on her years of experience, she is tasked to create internal training in all types of areas that the wider Early Childhood sector is lacking in, including in depth orientation and team refresher modules, creating Leadership Modules for future leaders, helping them to learn valuable skills as they develop their careers, and creating Responsible Person training to ensure the team are the most skilled to work through different workplace challenges.

Her work ensures that Jenny’s educators are confident and proactive with all regulatory and best practices within the sector, helping to foster a sense of belonging and professional growth at Jenny’s ELC. Jaylea’s passion for coaching and mentoring continues to shine, as she helps every team member feel valued and empowered to develop their skills and advance their careers.

Andrew: The Go-To Problem Solver

Also working alongside Jaylea is her husband Andrew in his role of Facilities and Maintenance in the Bendigo Region. A role that is rare within the Early Childhood field, Jenny’s ELC employs a full time maintenance person to support each region, helping to ensure Educators spend their valuable time engaging and working children, not oiling decks and refilling sandpits!

A pillar of support for the Jenny’s network in his role, Andrew, affectionately called “Work Grandpa,” is popular with children and Educators alike as he arrives at the centre in his big Jenny’s van! Andrew’s days are filled with problem-solving and hands-on assistance. From maintaining the beautiful green spaces to tackling practical challenges like toy rescues and facility repairs, Andrew’s can-do attitude and resourcefulness have made him an invaluable part of the team.

Andrew’s love for the great outdoors is a driving force behind his work. He has played a key role in creating vibrant nature spaces across Jenny’s services, mentoring educators and encouraging them to connect children with the environment. His dedication extends beyond the workplace, often volunteering at community events, open days, and social gatherings. Whether hosting barbecues or lending a hand with a dishwasher replacement at a team member’s home, Andrew exemplifies the spirit of generosity and teamwork and truly makes a difference.

A Shared Passion for Community

Jaylea and Andrew’s shared journey began with an adventurous spirit and a willingness to embrace challenges. In the early years of their relationship, Andrew worked as a shearer while Jaylea joined him at various camps, stepping into roles as a cook and roustabout. Together, they travelled the countryside in a Datsun 180B, with two dogs and a new baby in tow, often sleeping in a two-man tent. Their resilience, resourcefulness, and sense of adventure laid the foundation for their strong partnership and have shaped the dedication and passion they bring to Jenny’s ELC today.

Together, Jaylea and Andrew embody the values that make Jenny’s ELC more than just a workplace. Their shared passion for creating meaningful connections and supporting others has left an indelible mark on our community. Whether it’s mentoring staff, enhancing outdoor learning spaces, or offering personal and professional advice, they go above and beyond to make a difference.

Career Progression at Jenny’s ELC

At Jenny’s ELC, there is a strong belief in investing in all members of the team and fostering long-term careers within a supportive community. Jaylea’s transition to her new role as Training Facilitator is just one example of how Jenny’s ELC nurtures growth and development. With opportunities for career progression, skill-building, and leadership development, team members feel valued and supported every step of the way.

Would you like to be part of a team that truly invests in its people? At Jenny’s ELC, leaders are always on the lookout for bright, passionate, and qualified individuals. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to take the next step, Jenny’s offers a place where you can thrive and make a meaningful impact.

Learn more about career opportunities with Jenny’s ELC here.

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