Professional Development Opportunities
Thriving Futures offers free training and guidance that will always be relevant to your studies or future career. All of our consultants are based in Perth, WA or Queensland; but don’t worry – you won’t miss out on regular face-to-face training and mentoring meetings are completely flexible to suit your needs!
Training
Child Australia’s Sector Specialists regularly conduct presentations and training with each centre. These face-to-face presentations are chosen by the director or educational leader depending on what the service is focussing on at the time.
These training sessions can be logged towards your Educator Recognition Program.
Mentoring
Our mentors are here to provide one-on-one support regardless of whether you’re still studying or have already completed your qualifications. They are here for you! They have been in your shoes and have a range of experiences in the sector.
You will be matched with a mentor depending on which centre you’re with and what stage you’re at in your learning journey. All of our mentors will help you to identify your personal and professional goals. They provide educational and developmental advice and guidance while sharing insight into their own experiences to help illustrate learning.
Our mentors aim to be honest and provide respectful, constructive feedback keeping best practices and learning experiences as their vision. We are committed to open and honest communication in our relationships.
Meet your mentors
Connie Borg
Connie has over 25 years’ experience and believes that strong community involvement, support and guidance builds an educator’s capacity to drive quality sustainable practice.
Kirsty Szklanka
Kirsty served as a Senior Assessment Officer at the Education and Care Regulatory Unit (ECRU) for the past decade, gaining expertise in legislative compliance and quality service delivery in the Assessment and Rating process. With over 20 years of experience in various sector roles, she is passionate about working with children and is dedicated to collaborating with others to enhance the quality of care and education they receive.
Fiona Rudkin
Fiona brings experience spanning 30 years in Corporate Management highlighted by her tenure as the co-owner of a Childcare Centre. With qualifications in both the Early Years and Disability Sectors, Fiona’s extensive background has supported consultancy roles in Early Childhood Education and Care settings.
Sonali Fernandes
Sonali has extensive experience in Early Childhood Education and Care, working as an educator, service manager, and trainer. She advocates for inclusive environments and supports professional growth. With a Cert IV in Training and Assessment, she has delivered qualifications to empower educators and enhance outcomes for all children.
Sasha Beirne
Sasha has worked as an Early Childhood Educator, Group Leader, Educational Leader, Assistant Director and Director, led her to a purpose within the sector: to drive awareness around the importance and impact of building relationships, developing professional resilience and becoming advocates every day for the children of Australia and beyond.
