Milestones Early Learning Centres recognised in local Business Awards

Two Queensland-based Milestones Early Learning Centres have been recognised in local Business Awards, highlighting the role of early education in their communities. 

Milestones Early Learning Tugun had a strong presence in the Local Business Awards for the Gold Coast region, with Trainee Educator Tayla Brown announced as the winner of the Youth Award, while the service as a whole was a finalist in the category which recognises excellence in early learning. 

“We couldn’t believe we’d been nominated as a service, and then we decided to nominate one of our own educators, Tayla, because she really is an amazing example of what a young educator should be,” Centre Manager Jade Cjakowski said. 

“Tayla always goes above and beyond for the children and it’s so clear she has found her purpose in educating and caring for children, she makes me proud every day.” 

For Ms Brown, the award is a significant achievement so early in her career. On accepting the award, she highlighted her love of working in early childhood education and care (ECEC) and the quality of the team she works with. 

“Winning the award means a lot to me,” she said. 

Fellow Queensland service, Milestones Early Learning Roma (pictured), was named as a finalist in two categories in the 2024 Maranoa Business Awards.  

“We were selected as a finalist in the Employer of Choice and Business and Professional Services category, which put us up against some of the larger TAFEs and Mining companies in the region,” Centre Manager Christel Anderson shared.

“Our educators work so hard, and they were very proud to showcase what we offer when the judges came to interview and assess us during the Awards process,” she continued. 

“We are inviting more educators to join us so we can continue to grow and serve our Roma families, so this recognition is a great way of getting our name out in the community.” 

Affinity Education Group CEO Tim Hickey gave both teams his congratulations for the local recognition. 

“Centre Leaders like Jade and Christel drive Affinity’s centre-based culture of recognition for our Shining Stars, and represent us to their local communities,” Mr Hickey said. 

“Both teams are high performing, delivering outstanding professionalism, and really living the team spirit every day. We’re extremely proud of them.”