Celebrating 20 years Sherelle Mortlock

Sherelle Mortlock, has always had a close affinity with A G Leech Kindergarten. Celebrating 20 years of kindergarten teaching this year, Sherelle’s connection with the kindergarten goes a long way back, having attended the centre as a student.

Sherelle also celebrates 20 years with the Y this year, working in the organisations’ Y Kinders in Maryborough. The Maryborough kindergartens form an integral part of the original cluster managed by Y Kinders.

A career that commenced with the Y

Sherelle’s Year 11 work experience at Californian Gully Kindergarten (Maryborough), started what has turned into two decades of making a difference in so many little lives. Her time there while a teen, confirmed her ambition to work with children.

Initially entering the workforce in a childcare role, Sherelle felt that she was more suited to the kindergarten program and juggled studying with her own family responsibilities. Sherelle’s placements while a student, found her back on familiar territory, undertaking these parts of her course all at A G Leech Kindergarten.

A G Leech Kinder becomes part of the family

The connection with the kindergarten was further strengthened when Sherelle had to choose a kinder for her own children, and keeping the family tradition, enrolled all three at A G Leech.

Her kinder career began at Californian Gully Kindergarten with one day a week, once she completed her Diploma. After graduating with a Bachelor of Early Childhood in 2007, Sherelle joined the permanent team at A G Leech. Later on, keen to mentor others, she had a stint in the role of Area Director in the region.

Bringing Bush Kinder to the region

Sherelle’s commitment to delivering the best for her students and her dedication to keeping up with current educational developments, saw her introduce the first Bush Kinder program in the area, at the time when it was a new concept. She is a strong advocate for play-based learning, nature experiences and innovative practices.

Finding joy and kinder, kids, and colleagues

When asked, Sherelle gave a long list of experiences that have kept her enjoying teaching young children every day. And, why we find her so committed to the sector 20 years from her first days at Californian Gully.

“I just love the looks on the children’s faces when I teach,” she shared. “They really are little sponges, and their faces just light up when they learn new information.”

“I’ve had amazing colleagues over the years supporting and inspiring me to continue to learn and develop,” she added.

Additionally, she finds the rewarding relationships with families, children and other Educators priceless and continually feels the warmth, support and appreciation of the community.

Sherelle’s passion is not restricted to her teaching hours. She sees educational opportunities and new ideas everywhere.

“My family teases me on holiday,” confessed Sherelle. “I can’t help myself and am known to say quite often, ‘the kinder kids would love this’ as I take photos and collect items. Because I know how excited and fascinated the children will be.”

“I constantly have kinder in my mind and heart,” said Sherelle.

Early learning over the decades

There have been huge changes in early learning over Sherelle’s career. With increased kinder hours, and shifting perceptions, she says that the value of early education is much more widely recognised than when she was a new graduate.

While not there yet, Sherelle says, “I’m not quite at the stage of teaching my former students’ children, but I’m not far off!”

A huge thank you Sherelle, for your dedication, energy and for making a profound difference in the lives of so many little learners! We are so lucky to have you on our team!