ECEC Provider in Focus – CABOOSH

CABOOSH is an outside school hours care (OSHC) operation in New South Wales, which bills itself as ‘not just an OOSH; a community initiative dedicated to supporting families and nurturing future generations.’ 

 

CABOOSH is a registered charity under the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission, operated by Greater West Childcare Ltd in partnership with Camden Baptist Church.

 

What is the history of CABOOSH?

 

Greater West Childcare Ltd serves over 700 families within seven communities in partnership with local churches and ministries across Greater Western Sydney.

 

What is the CABOOSH vision and approach to learning?

 

Four values drive the operation of Greater West Childcare Ltd, and in turn CABOOSH: 

Christ Centred: Christian principles and teaching are the foundation behind all aspects of care, shining the hope of Jesus Christ throughout the community.

Mission Focused: Greater West Childcare Ltd aims to provide high quality Christian care and to partner with churches in reaching the local community.

Genuine Relationships: Greater West Childcare Ltd seeks to foster authentic relationships between staff, children, families, and the community, to create a sense of belonging and connection.

Community Partnerships: Greater West Childcare Ltd works with local Christian churches, ministries and support services to provide an environment that cares for the spiritual, social, emotional and physical wellbeing of its families.

 

Are there any unique aspects to the CABOOSH offer? 

 

CABOOSH offers a Community Mentoring program called COACH (Families), a program specifically designed to empower individuals and families, enabling them to thrive in all aspects of life. 

 

Families with at least one child under the age of 12 years of age are supported to experience positive growth and support from volunteer mentors.

 

“COACHES are friends with a purpose, dedicated to offering assistance and guidance to children, young people, and families,” CABOOSH explained. 

 

The mentors are trained volunteers from local churches who possess up-to-date Working With Children and Police Checks, who are fully compliant with government requirements for child protection training and who are accountable to their COACH coordinators.

 

The mentors work alongside families, helping them to set and achieve meaningful life goals for themselves and their children. Whether it’s providing guidance on personal development, educational pursuits, or other important areas of life, COACHES are there to support families every step of the way.

 

What is the CABOOSH approach to educator identity and development?

 

Greater West Childcare believes in the importance of ensuring its team is supported and encouraged to be their best, both at work and in their own lives. 

 

“We pride ourselves on providing an environment that enables our staff to flourish, developing skills and being supported to learn and grow as we serve our community together,” information on the website notes.

 

Learn more about CABOOSH here.