Michelle Oellerman has been named Regional Educator of the Year for the Mildura and Murray region (Vic) in the 2024 FDCA Excellence in Family Day Care Awards.
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Echuca’s Michelle Oellerman has again been honoured for the outstanding impact she is having on the lives of young children.
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The Echuca Intereach Family Day care educator has been named Regional Educator of the Year for the Mildura and Murray region (Vic) in the 2024 FDCA Excellence in Family Day Care Awards for the second consecutive year.
“Winning this award is an honour, and I am deeply humbled to be recognised for my dedication and passion,” Ms Oellerman said.
“I hope to instil a lifelong love of learning for children who attend my service by creating an environment that encourages curiosity and wonder.”
With 17 years’ experience working with children of all ages, Ms Oellerman started her career in South Africa as a Kumon instructor — a maths and English tutor who helps students develop their academic potential.
She has been an educator with Intereach for seven years — running Shell’s Family Day Care — and in the industry for almost eight years.
Michelle Oellerman with some of the children at her family day care.
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Over those years, she has seen a significant shift from what was essentially known as “babysitting” to the importance of early childhood education and development in children aged birth to five.
“Educators are required to have formal qualifications, ensuring we are well-equipped with the skills and knowledge to support and nurture each child's development,” she said.
“There is more parental involvement as we work towards a common goal. It’s a beautiful partnership when educators and parents work collaboratively to ensure the best outcomes, such as shared decision-making on their child's individual learning goals, development and progress.
“We plan structured educational programs tailored to each child's ideas, voice, development and goals, ensuring each child has a strong sense of wellbeing.”
Intereach Family Day Care program manager Rebecca Fitzpatrick said the fact Ms Oellerman had received the award twice was a testament to her ongoing excellence in early childhood education.
“Michelle’s ongoing pledge to completing her Curiosity Approach accreditation and more recently enrolling to complete her Diploma in Education and Care shows her devotion to continually upskilling her knowledge to ensure she is abreast of best practice and research to support children’s learning, development and wellbeing,” Ms Fitzpatrick said.
“Michelle’s soft and caring nature allows her to develop respectful and supportive relationships with every child that enters her service.”
Michelle said being a Family Day Care educator was a rewarding and exciting role that offered flexibility and the support of Intereach as a provider.
“It is a unique environment that is nurturing, educational and supportive all in the comfort of a homely environment,” she said.
The national finalists will be announced on October 15, with the winner presented on November 23.
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