General News
13 November, 2024
Preschool's Awards
Gilgandra Preschool recently took home two prestigious awards at the NSW Excellence in Early Childhood Awards (EECE) gala dinner.
Held at the Hyatt Regency in Sydney’s CBD, over 700 people from 130 services attended the dinner on Saturday, November 2. This marks an increase of 344 percent compared to previous years and makes the EECE awards one of the largest of its kind in Australia.
Of the 16 awards Gilgandra Preschool was nominated for – already an impressive achievement – the small rural service won two, competing against larger preschool centres like those in Port Macquarie, Orange, and even Sydney.
The award for ‘Small Community Regional and Rural Service’ was presented to Gilgandra Preschool, and ‘Educational Leader Excellence’ was presented to local director Kristy Hyndes.
“We were up against the big guns in Sydney… we are very lucky to win [this year],” said Ms Hyndes.
Gilgandra Preschool was one of only four services that won two separate awards, and the only single service to do so. “[This result] shows the dedication and passion of our team,” she said.
“If they weren’t passionate about achieving the best outcomes for our community, this wouldn’t have been possible.”
Eleven of the 13 members of staff were able to attend the gala, all paid for by the preschool as thanks for their continued hard work.
“It was a successful weekend,” said Jess Turnbull. “Some categories had more than 15 centres nominated.
“We’re all very proud to bring home the community service award to Gilgandra… it’s proof of all the hard work we put in [and] recognises that we are doing a lot to support our community.”
Ms Hyndes commented on what Gilgandra Preschool will aim for following their triumphant return.
“We [will] continue to strive for that excellence…. We are always continuing to keep our standards high and improve, moving forward.”
