This year at ECMS our journey has been about connection, consistency, and supporting our people to strive for great learning outcomes. Karen Hughes, Head of Operations, puts it best:
“Our sector is unique and distinct in its mission as we focus on the invaluable holistic development of children. Through quality education we have the profound opportunity to enrich the lives of the most precious of all - children. So, it’s essential we continue to invest in and support our dedicated teachers and educators in 2025.”
Our momentum is driven by fostering trust and cultivating strong partnerships across teams. Consistent evaluations, open communication and a shared vision unites us. Our outstanding and highly skilled Area Managers and Practice Coaches play a key role, embodying our values and supporting teaching teams daily. Karen says “Our teams are encouraged to be candid, seek support when needed, share their achievements and celebrate their successes. I am very proud that together we function as one cohesive team.”
We focus on empathy and care, not just for children but for our teaching teams too. Celebrating individual passions, offering personal support, and fostering connections make us stronger. As one Area Manager shared: “We celebrate educators’ individuality, support them to bring their whole selves to work, and nurture strong connections within teaching teams.”
What’s Next?
This year, we welcomed eleven new services and will grow by another six in 2025, reaching a total of 75 services. With this growth, we’ll continue strengthening partnerships and celebrating our culture of collaboration. Investment in anti-bias training, professional learning opportunities, and new partnerships will support our teaching teams and maintain drive and passion.
Karen reminds us trust is the core of our work, nurtured through courageous leadership, a supportive framework, exceptional support services and uplifting encouragement. “We are in a wonderful place and excited for what 2025 will bring, especially with the incredible teams we have by our side.”
Together, we’ll continue to foster a culture of quality early childhood education and care, celebrate our growth, and keep children and educators at the heart of everything we do.