Sesame Lane introduces new roles aimed at boosting children’s experiences 

Early childhood education and care (ECEC) provider Sesame Lane Care & Kindergarten has announced the expansion of its Development and Community Support Team with the addition of two new coordinators to support inclusion and community connections.

The appointment of these two professionals aims to enhance the provider’s ability to assist staff, children, and families, ensuring that everyone’s needs are met with compassion and with a spirit to innovate and expand support.  

Working within the Development and Community Support Team, which aims to create a safe, secure, and inclusive environment within Sesame Lane where every child can thrive, the two new roles demonstrate the provider’s dedication to meeting the individual needs of each child while nurturing meaningful connections within the wider community. 

“By continuing to grow and strengthen our support network, we aim to provide families with the care and resources they deserve,” Kerri Smith, Head of Sesame Lane said.

Community Connections Coordinator – Kerrie (Keza) Ward  

Ms Ward (pictured) was selected for her role, which focuses on connecting families with the wider community, based on her commitment to the ethos that ‘it takes a village to raise a child.’

From local schools and sports clubs to external programs that enrich children’s lives, her role also includes coordinating events such as fundraisers and volunteer programs, supporting Clean Up Australia Day and The Breakfast Club Redcliffe meal service. 

Additionally, she builds seamless transitions for kindergarten children starting school by connecting Kindergarten and Prep teachers for collaborative support.  

One program she is especially passionate about is Sesame Lane’s Connection Club, where Seniors and aged care residents visit children under five years of age to foster meaningful intergenerational relationships. This initiative promotes social understanding while bringing a smile to everyone involved.  

Her mission is clear—connect families, children and the community with the resources they need to grow and thrive.  

Inclusion Support Coordinator & Circle of Security Facilitator – Kelly Anderson  

Ms Anderson’s role as Inclusion Support Coordinator is vital in ensuring that all children experience equal opportunities and support during their time at Sesame Lane.  

She works directly with educators to develop flexible approaches that incorporate inclusive practices into Sesame Lane classrooms. From creating customised support plans for children to facilitate families’ access to additional resources, Ms Anderson ensures that every child’s unique needs are met with compassion and care.  

By encouraging educators to reflect on their methods and access tools like the Inclusion Development Fund (IDF), she ensures that inclusion practices across Sesame Lane services are continuously improving, driven by her mission to see that every child feels seen, included, and supported.  

A Shared Commitment to Families  

The Community Support Team does more than ensure smooth daily operations—they seek to embody shared values of community, inclusivity, and advocacy. 

Both Ms Anderson and Ms Ward work closely with other team members Amanda (Mandy) Alborn  (Educational Mentor and Children’s Rights Ambassador) and Indigenous Cultural Liaison – Rebecca (Bek) Martin (proud Yuggerah woman) to create enriched, supportive environments where children’s safety and development flourish.  

Learn more about Sesame Lane here.