The Lillypilly Team

Helen and Tim are the proud owners and Directors of Lillypilly Pre-school, Forster. Helen is a tertiary qualified teacher with two bachelor degrees in both Education and Early Childhood. Helen has vast experience in the child care industry and is a committed and passionate teacher. She has a strong focus on language, music, building social skills and the environment. She draws on almost 20 years early childhood and teaching experience to bring some very special ideas to the pre-school and has created a beautiful, happy and fun-focused environment. Tim is a retired police officer with broad experience in child protection, team leadership and customer service. He has business qualifications and is the business manager at the pre-school. Tim is also a TAFE trained child care worker, having completed his certificate III in 2010. Helen and Tim have strong family values and have three beautiful children. They have lived in and around the Forster area for almost 25 years.

Linda is the room leader for the 2-3 year old children. Linda has an Associate diploma in Social Science (Child Studies), complimented by 19 years experience in child care. Linda is a mother of two and strongly believes in providing a loving and caring environment for the children in her care. She comes from a wonderful family environment and has a special focus on social skills and literacy and always has a spot on her lap to read to the children. Linda has been at the pre-school for over six years and has built strong relationships with our Lillypilly families. Linda is dearly loved by everyone at the pre-school and is highly regarded for her ability to settle children at rest time and in transitioning new children into the centre. Linda 'gets on with the job' and always displays a positive and caring attitude.

Casey Kent (Nominee Rising Star Award 2011 - Australian Family Childcare Awards)

Casey is the room leader of our 3-5 year old children. She is a passionate teacher who goes above and beyond in every regard. She has over 6 years experience and holds a Diploma in children services. Casey is a keen artist which is clearly reflected in her ever-intriguing and creative displays and planned activities. She takes pride in the pre-school and provides the children with a loving, honest and supportive environment. Casey enjoys teaching the children yoga and other relaxation techniques which supports her strong social skill and self awareness program. Casey goes out of her way to make every child feel special and tailors the daily program to fit in with every child's interests. Casey generates a wonderful sense of belonging for all of our children and families.

Finlay Mackay

Complementing Casey in the 3-5 room is Finlay. He holds a Certificate III in children services and has several years experience in the child care industry. Always looking to further his education, Fin is currently completing his Diploma of children services to expand his knowledge base and become a leader in early childhood education. Fin has a great sense of humour and a warm and welcoming personality. He is a 'family man' through and through and brings a vibrant energy to Lillypilly. He is often described as being 'in-tune' with the children and families and his passion for bringing out the best in every child is unquestionable. Finlay is a wonderful assest to Lillypilly and provides a unique balance to the family environment provided on a daily basis.

Jessica Watson

Jessica joined the Lillypilly team in mid 2011. She holds a certificate III in children studies and brings an exciting and energetic personality to the pre-school. Jess boasts a contagious smile and has a natural, genuine affection for children. She has worked at a number of services in the area on a casual basis and is excited and proud to join Lillypilly on a permanent basis. Jess has a flair for storytelling and engages the children in her animated language experiences. Jess performs a support role to the other educators and is actively involved in both rooms. She has quickly become a favourite with the children, engaging them in games and activities that keep the pre-school environment fun!

Fiona Rogers

Fiona joined Lillypilly in 2011 and is undertaking a certificate III traineeship in children services. Fiona has a loving and endearing personality which has seen her easily fit in at Lillypilly. She has a keen interest in promoting children's self esteem and is always intrigued by the uniqeness of every child. Fiona's sence of humour and warmth has seen her quickly establish caring realtionships with the children, staff and Lillypilly families. Fiona's professional committment and work ethic is of the highest standard. She is a wonderful addition to the Lillypilly team.