One of the most important assets at Margaret Ives is our caring, experienced and enthusiastic staff team. We have a high staff-to-child ratio and at least three qualified staff members in each room. We are committed to professional and personal staff development - we believe it is integral to providing a high quality service.
Our policies and practice reflect a commitment to the safety and protection of children and to providing a child-safe environment. All staff working with children undergo a criminal history screening.
Many of our staff have been at the Centre for more than 10 years. Our Director joined Margaret Ives in 2008 after holding a position as Director of another local Community Children's Centre for 11 years. She held the position of Convenor of Australian Community Children's Services (ACCS) in South Australia in 2010/2011 and is still currently an active member.
She has been working in community based child care since 1989 and her qualifications include an Advanced Certificate in Child Care, Bachelor of Social Science and Bachelor of Education. She has broad experience in early childhood education, including assisting early childhood degree students at the University of South Australia from 1994 to 2006.
Her special interests are promoting and supporting wellbeing for children, staff and parents, and providing quality learning environments for children.
Our Assistant Director has more than 10 years experience working with young children and has extensive knowledge of primary caregiving and attachment. She currently works in the Preschool section and is committed to building strong working relationships with not only children, but families and the Centre Staff.
In the Baby and Toddler room, our staff have extensive qualifications and experience working with young children; primary caregiving and attachment.
In the Preschool we have two early childhood teachers and three qualified child care professionals working in the section.
All rooms have an extra relief staff member to help provide continuity for the children.
Our Administrator has worked at Margaret Ives since 1988. She has a Certificate in Accounting and is the person to contact for more information about the Centre.
Our Cook has been with us since 1990. She is a qualified chef with extensive experience in cooking for children and providing special diets. We are an accredited Start Right - Eat Right Centre and invite you to view our sample menu. Margaret Ives follows food safety standards as set by the Department of Health.
We have a team of regular relief staff, some of whom have been contributing to our Centre for many years.
Comprehensive orientation procedures for all new staff, including relief staff, ensure consistent practice and continuity for children and families.
