The People You Can Count On at HKP

Across the 78 nominations submitted for Sanctuary HKP, one idea appeared again and again: the ability to step into any room.

That might sound simple. In early learning, it is anything but.

To walk into a different environment, understand what is happening, connect with the children and support the educators already there requires enormous awareness and trust.

At HKP, that trust reaches across studios. Children know familiar faces beyond their own room, educators support one another across the centre and families described people who take the time to understand what a child actually needs.

Elsa’s growth was described by one colleague as nothing short of exceptional.

This year, she stepped into a lead role in HKP’s new Toddlers Studio while simultaneously welcoming multiple new children and families into the environment.

She navigated that considerable transition with calmness, care and professionalism. Her colleagues repeatedly recognise the gentleness she brings into a room and the way her calm voice helps children feel at ease.

Her Rising Star award recognises someone who stepped up early, handled far more than expected and did it without losing the quality that makes her so good at the work.

Olivia’s influence extends well beyond her own studio.

Her colleagues describe a remarkable leader whose wisdom, professionalism and compassion extend far beyond her years. She creates an environment where children are settled, confident and secure while building strong relationships with families.

One family nomination was particularly meaningful. They described Olivia recognising when their child needed additional comfort, validation or patience and asking what that child needed rather than simply reacting to behaviour.

Her colleagues captured her leadership style beautifully: a true leader shows you what to do rather than simply telling you.

ive nominations for Jemma shared essentially the same message: she is there.

Whether someone needs a listening ear, a helping hand or a solution, Jemma’s team knows they can approach her.

Her influence also extends into HKP’s wider community. She knows the children and their families, has open conversations and shows up for family events.

One colleague noted that Jemma may not always be the loudest person in the room, but she is undoubtedly one of the people the team depends upon most.

Another offered a slightly less formal assessment: the “best director evahhh”.

Francine meets families at every point in their Sanctuary journey, from their initial tour and enrolment through Stay and Play and everything that comes afterwards.

The strongest evidence of the relationships she builds appeared after her role changed.

Families Francine had supported while working in the studios continued seeking her out once she moved into administration.

Those relationships were never simply about being nearby. They were genuine, and they lasted.

Whether she is welcoming a prospective family or supporting one already within the centre, Francine has a special ability to make people feel comfortable and connected.

Rosey was HKP’s most nominated person this year, appearing across four award categories.

Her colleagues describe someone who is always singing, always working and usually surrounded by children because they simply gravitate towards her.

Rosey can move into any age group or environment and immediately connect with children, families and the team. One nomination described her affectionately as an “energiser bunny”, hard at work from the moment she arrives until the end of the day.

Despite being one of HKP’s most experienced educators, Rosey continues to bring extraordinary energy and passion to her work.

Whether she is settling a room with a quiet song, reading on the floor or joining completely in children’s imaginative play, her presence brings light, laughter and connection.

As one nomination concluded: legend.

Congratulations to Samantha Elliott, Coffee Order Memory Award; Jess Hooper, Glitter Wrangler; Annalise Milligan, Human Snooze Button; Sara Vojdani, Lunchbox Whisperer; BB Hunnybun, MacGyver; Shae Parhizi, Most Likely to Be Found on the Floor; Amelia Batterham, Nature Explorer; and Sharon Hoskins, Walking Wikipedia.

Seventy-eight nominations represented 78 moments when somebody stopped and decided another person’s contribution deserved to be recognised.

You are what makes Sanctuary HKP, Sanctuary.

< Older Post

Newer Post >