Learn more about Gemma
What are you studying?
Since finishing my graduate diploma, I have gone on to continue study to a bachelor of primary school and early childhood education. I want to continue my learning journey.
I heard about the Fraser foundation through Swinburne university when commencing my studies.
How did you hear about the Fraser Foundation?
How does it feel to be the recipient of a Fraser Foundation scholarship?
It was honestly a dream come true to receive the scholarship, with the cost of living and being a busy mum myself, it was always a financial stress to return to study, but the Fraser foundation made it possible for me to achieve those dreams and goals for my future.
What inspired you to pursue a career as an Early Childhood Teacher (ECT)?
Working in early childhood inspires me everyday, I love the children, the families and my working environment.
My current employer Monique Wilson inspired me as she always saw the potential.
My older sisters Laura and Briony always believed in me and pushed me to be the best.
My family inspires me through their support, encouragement and my want to become the best educator I can be.
Building trusting relationships with children while supporting their emotional and social development can be challenging, particularly when they are experiencing big emotions or changes at home. However, these moments are also the most rewarding, as they allow me to provide a safe, nurturing environment where children feel valued, understood, and confident to learn.
While these challenges require patience, resilience, and adaptability, they are also what make early childhood education so meaningful. They inspire me to continue learning, improving my practice, and making a positive difference in the lives of young children.
What is the best and most challenging parts of working with young children?
I’m very excited to say when I return to work I will be working as a centre director to a new service in my community, this opportunity would not have been possible without the support for the Fraser foundation, so thank you!
And I can’t wait for the next chapter.