We are beyond proud to share that Grow Early Education Kelso has been recognised in an extraordinary way at the 2025 Central West Early Childhood Awards. Our centre has received multiple nominations across a wide range of categories, a true reflection of the dedication, talent, and heart our Educators bring to Early Childhood Education every single day.

The Central West Early Childhood Awards celebrate excellence in our profession, recognising centres, leaders, and Educators who go above and beyond to create meaningful learning experiences, nurture young minds, and build strong connections with families and communities. To see so many of our own nominated is both humbling and inspiring.

Our Nominations

We are proud to congratulate the following team members for their outstanding achievements:

• Outstanding Trainee – Laura Urban

• Outstanding Early Childhood Educator (Families Choice Award) - Whittney Cook, Laura Urban, Isabella Pittman, Laura Job, Paula Freeman, and Kylie Hartland

• Molly Ticehurst Memorial Award for Outstanding Educator (Cert III) – Lillee Bullock

• Outstanding Early Childhood Educator (Diploma) – Natalie Fowler and Laura Job

• Charles Sturt University Outstanding Early Childhood Teacher (ECT) – Whittney Cook

• Samara Golding-Piper Memorial Award for Excellence in Leadership – Paula Freeman

In addition to recognising the achievements of our individual Educators, we are thrilled that Grow Early Education Kelso has also been nominated for two centre-level awards: Excellence in Pedagogy and Practice and Excellence in Community. These nominations celebrate the collective efforts of our whole team in creating a high-quality learning environment, delivering innovative and engaging early learning experiences, and building strong connections with families and the wider Bathurst community. Being acknowledged in these categories is a testament to our commitment to excellence in every aspect of our centre’s work and the nurturing culture we cultivate every day.

Why This Recognition Matters

These nominations highlight the depth of expertise, passion, and commitment within our centre. They show families and our wider community that when you choose Grow Early Education Kelso, you’re choosing a team dedicated to providing the very best start for every child.

Being recognised across so many categories also reflects the diversity of strengths within our team — from leadership and teaching excellence to innovation, care, and mentorship.

The winners will be announced at the Central West Early Childhood Awards Night on Saturday, 1 November 2025 at Panthers Bathurst. No matter the outcome, we are incredibly proud of our Educators and the work they do every day to make a difference in children’s lives.

Congratulations to our entire Grow Early Education Kelso family. This recognition belongs to all of you.

Stay up to date with Grow Early Education and the result of the 2025 Early Childhood Education Awards of our Facebook page here.