Makeover for Council’s two child centres

GLENORCHY’S two Council-run childcare centres, Benjafield and Berriedale, are set for a busy 2023 after getting a makeover – and some friendly new faces - over the Christmas break.

In August 2022 the Glenorchy City Council decided to retain and invest in the two centres, which are used by more than 140 local families.

But both centres, which have been operating for 30 years, needed some work to modernise and make them sustainable into the future.

Work began over the Christmas period, with both centres being receiving a fresh coat of paint and new window furnishings.

New carpet is being installed at Berriedale this month, and plans are in place to install outdoor blinds and shade sails.

The investment in childcare has also meant finding passionate new educators to add to the pool of staff at both centres – like Shantelle, who has joined the team at Berriedale; and Kaitlyn, who has become a valued member of staff at Benjafield.

Kaitlyn said she loves the action-packed, fun and rewarding dayto-day work of being an early childhood educator.

“It’s very rewarding seeing the kids grow in confidence,” she said.

“You build really good relationships with them as well, and with the families.”

With nine siblings of her own, Shantelle has been caring for children for a long time. She loves the supportive environment of Berriedale, and the thrill of making children happy when she comes to work each day.

“If you’re considering getting into early childhood education, I say that you should go for it,” she said.

“You make great friends with other staff members, you become close with the families and children, you get to watch children grow.

“It’s a fantastic experience to learn something new every day.”

Glenorchy Mayor Bec Thomas is pleased to see the changes at Benjafield and Berriedale rolling out.

“We’re so proud to be re-investing in these centres and supporting their growth into the future,” she said.

“We’re very happy to have young, passionate educators like Kaitlyn and Shantelle joining the team at Benjafield and Berriedale.

“We see a very bright future ahead for childcare in Glenorchy.”