Relief Early Childhood Teacher - Expression of Interest
February 24, 2021
Relief Early Childhood Teacher - Expression of Interest
The College
Fairholme College was founded in 1917 and is a College of the Presbyterian Church of Queensland. Set on the Range escarpment in Toowoomba, Australia’s Garden City, in an area of outstanding natural beauty; Fairholme College is one of Australia’s leading independent girls’ schools.
Fairholme Kindy is located on the Fairholme College Campus. We provide developmental and educational Early Childhood programs for children in a warm, safe, nurturing play-based environment promoting self-understanding and self-esteem.
As a College of the Presbyterian Church of Queensland, Fairholme is committed to creating a caring community where all we do is undergirded by our Christian faith. Our vision statement outlines our charter: Fairholme - a nurturing Christian school, is committed to the development of a vibrant learning community; one that challenges students to become confident and respectful contributors within our global society (2012). This statement is further exemplified in our five core values; Christ-centred Faith; Collaboration; Enjoyment; Respect and Seeking Excellence.
The Position
This is a casual supply position. Fairholme Kindy operates only during school hours of 8.30am - 3:00pm, with morning tea and lunch duty expectations.
Desirable Competencies and Qualifications:
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Early Childhood or equivalent (recognised by ACECQA as an early childhood teaching qualification). or;
- Bachelor of Primary Teaching with approved Early Childhood Diploma level qualification or enrolled and actively working towards one;
- Must hold current Queensland Teacher’s Registration;
- Current positive notice or exemption card;
- Current First Aid, with Asthma & Anaphylaxis training.
Experience preferred
- Previous experience working in early childhood or childcare environments;
- Experience in EYLF;
- Understanding of National Quality Framework.
Skills
- Highly Developed Interpersonal Skills and ability to work cooperatively;
- Flexible availability (available at short notice or ability to be on-call);
- Ability to proactively respond to individual children’s needs.
Position Responsibilities
- Be responsible for the daily implementation of the curriculum informed program;
- which is within the guidelines of the National Quality Framework (NQF), the Early Years;
- Learning Framework (EYLF) and the Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines;
- (QKLG) in the Kindergarten Room;
- Assist in the delivery of the daily program as planned by the Kindergarten Teacher;
- Share in the set – up of equipment and resources for activities in the outdoor play area in the morning;
- Ensure the safety, health and hygiene for all children in the room at all times;
- Share in tidying up and cleaning/disinfecting areas with other staff;
- Support positive relationships established with families and communicate information to parents at the end of the day;
- Complete any required documentation – sleep, incident, injury, trauma and illness records and Daily Reflections for the day;
- Encourage children to develop their independence and self-help skills through supportive toileting routines, meal times and transitions;
- Inform the Admin Officer of any family communication which relates to enrolments or planned absences;
- Any other duties during the day as required.
Organisational Responsibilities
- Uphold and promote the policies, procedures and standards of Fairholme Kindy.
- Maintain confidentiality in issues relating to children, families and staff.
- Participate in all care and education duties as required with all children at Fairholme Kindy.
Working with Children
As a College we are committed to the health and wellbeing of all our members and, in particular the welfare of all students in our care. As such, staff members are committed to prevention, identification and reporting of child abuse and neglect and adherence to the Child Protection Policy and the Staff Code of Conduct, both of which are available - see links below.
Whilst such policies have direct relevance to boarding, coaching, nursing and teaching staff, all prospective candidates are requested to read the following documents prior to submitting an application. Our responsibilities to work respectfully and thoughtfully with all, and particularly the young people in our care, are shared across all staff, evident in our demeanour, as well as our adherence to policy requirements.
Successful candidates are required to undergo a screening process prior to appointment and must comply with all College policies and relevant legislation related to student protection.
Workplace Health and Safety
As a member of the College, the successful applicant is required to follow all workplace, health and safety requirements that include but are not limited to:
- Adherence to and knowledge of policy requirements
- Cooperation with audit, drill and training processes
- Meticulous attention to reporting responsibilities and record-keeping obligations in relation to all workplace, health and safety matters
The Package
The appointment is currently under the conditions of the Fairholme College Enterprise Agreement 2022.
Expression of Interest
EIOs should address the desirable competencies and qualifications and a Curriculum Vitae.
Send and address your EOI to:
Ms Helen Rasmussen
Fairholme Junior School
Fairholme College
PO Box 688
TOOWOOMBA 4350
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +61 7 4688 4687
Proudly a College of the Presbyterian Church of Queensland
Other Positions
Fairholme Aquatic Centre | Learn To Swim Teacher
Head of Sport Commencing Term 1, 2026.
Head of English Commencing Term 1, 2026.
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Off the back of her selection in the Queensland team, set to compete at the Australian Schools Swimming Championship in Brisbane in July, Year 8 student Mia Geise talks about her record breaking journey in the face of adversity. How did you get into swimming, and have you always swum competitively? When I was two years old my older brother Henry was taking learn to swim lessons at Fairholme, and I used to go along with my parents and was wanting to join in. It is funny to think back, that as a two-year-old I started learn to swim lessons with Mrs Dickinson and she used to tell the instructors to, ‘watch out for Mia as she will jump in the pool when you’re not looking’. I had no fear and just wanted to get on with it. All the instructors and swim coaches were aware that I had received a liver transplant when I was not even 4 months old. They were very supportive of me, and I went through the learn to swim grades. I commenced swimming competitively at meets when I was about 7 years old and swam for the Junior School at Andrews Cup. In Year 4 my health took a turn, and the doctors told my parents that I needed another transplant. The family moved to Brisbane to prepare. As I got sicker, I had to give up my favourite activities, including swimming which was really hard. I had a second transplant in Year 5, and six weeks after that, I was feeling healthy again, back at swim squad, but not competing. I returned to Fairholme at the beginning of Year 7 where my THRIVE teacher Mrs Aleesa Barton mentioned to me that I might be eligible to compete in multi class sport events. When I talked to Dad, he thought it was a great opportunity for me and got me registered to compete in multi class swimming and athletics. I was swimming in Fitness Squad at the time and with the encouragement of the Development Coach Mr Michael (Mick) Winton I returned to swim squad under his guidance. That was about nine months ago, and in November 2024, I resumed swimming competitively after more than a three year break. My goals at my first meet was to set new times to simply enable me to swim in multi class events at the Queensland Swimming Championships in December last year. The unexpected happened... I not only set some new times which allowed me to swim at the Queensland Championships, but I set National qualifying times. This was the start of what has been an extraordinary past six months where I have achieved more than I ever thought was possible. What does your weekly training schedule look like? I currently swim up to three times a week with the Development Squad under the guidance of my coach, Mr Mick Winton, and I also participate in two lighter sessions with the Fitness Squad. In addition to swimming, I incorporate a gym session at school to focus on strengthening. During the cross country and track and field seasons, I adjust my training by reducing the number of swim sessions and replacing them with two running sessions to maintain my conditioning. What do you love about swimming? It isn’t all about training and competition. I have made lovely friendships with my squad members and the young women I compete against. Do you have a favourite stroke? Breaststroke is by far my best stroke and is definitely my favourite. I enjoy the feeling when going through (almost cutting) the water when I am swimming breaststroke. You are off to Nationals in July, do you have any goals for this meet? I am selected for multi-class 50m and 100m Breaststroke and 200m Mixed Medley Relay Team A (Breaststroke). Even though I am at the younger end of the 13-15 age group if I swim personal best times, I will be competitive in my individual events. My goal is for personal bests and top 6 finishes, anything better than that will be a bonus. In the Mixed Medley, we have a real chance of a top 2 finish. It is going to be an exciting 3 days for Coach Mick and me; I am looking forward to it! Do you have any long-term sporting goals? My dad says that slow and steady wins the race when it comes to long-term progression in sport and to not get ahead of myself. We take every training block and swim meet as stepping stones to continue with setting personal best times that will in the future hopefully make me the best junior multi-class breaststroker in Australia. If I achieve this, it has potential to open pathways to gain selection in junior teams to compete internationally. Is there anyone particular who inspires you? Alexa Leary – A multi-class swimmer and Paralympics gold medallist, and world record holder. Four years ago, while training for triathlon Alexa had a horrible crash on her bike that left her with brain damage and weakness down her right side. Alexa’s courage and determination to learn to speak and walk again and go on to swim for Australia at a Paralympics is extraordinary. It gives me the chills. MEDALS Australian Age and Multi Class Age Championships Bronze: 12–13 Years 50m Breaststroke Queensland Representative Schools Championships Bronze: 13–15 Years 50m Breaststroke Bronze: 13–15 Years 100m Breaststroke Queensland Championships Silver: Open 100m Breaststroke Bronze: Open 50m Breaststroke Silver: 12–14 Years 50m and 100m Breaststroke Silver: 12–14 Years 50m and 100m Backstroke Queensland Sprint Championships Silver: 12–14 Years 50m Breaststroke RECORDS Australian Records Long Course: Open: 50m, 100m, and 200m Breaststroke (three records) 13 Years and Under: 50m, 100m, and 200m Breaststroke (three records) Short Course: Open: 100m Breaststroke and 100m Medley (two records) 13 Years and Under: 50m and 100m Backstroke, 50m and 100m Breaststroke, 100m Medley (five records) Queensland Records Long Course: Open: 50m, 100m, and 200m Breaststroke; 50m and 100m Backstroke (five records) 13 Years: 50m and 100m Freestyle, 50m and 100m Breaststroke, 50m & 100m Backstroke (six records) 12 Years: 50m and 100m Freestyle, 50m, 100m and 200m Breaststroke, 50m and 100m Backstroke (seven records) (Note: No Queensland Short Course records are maintained for Multi Class)
To find your calling in life—and to feel a deep connection to a vocation—is a special thing. For Sophie Byatt, that calling has always been clear: she knew from a young age that she wanted to care for and serve others. A career in healthcare is calling her. Now in Year 11, Sophie is undertaking the Health Services Advanced Pathway Program through Fairholme’s Health Hub—a fully equipped, on-campus simulated hospital ward with an Allied Health station. The Fairholme Health Hub is a unique offering in skilling our next generation of health professionals. For girls like Sophie, it has provided the opportunity to learn and explore a job in healthcare in real time. After successfully completing Certificates II and III in Health Support Services, Sophie has enrolled in the STATIM Micro-credential Program. This unique initiative allows her to gain hands-on experience by taking shifts in hospitals and aged care facilities under the guidance of registered nurse mentors. Learning on the job is giving Sophie—and other students like her— the skills and confidence to get a head start in their healthcare careers. Sophie’s mother, Tamika Byatt, says the program has opened countless doors and given Sophie the clarity that a career in health is the right path for her. Through her work caring for the elderly, sick, and vulnerable in the community, Sophie has also connected with Fairholme Old Girls and former staff members. These experiences have deepened her sense of purpose and commitment to serving others. Looking ahead, Sophie plans to study a Bachelor of Nursing at the University of Southern Queensland in 2027, with aspirations to specialise in paediatrics or midwifery. Well done to each of our Year 11 and Year 12 students who have recently completed the STATIM Micro-credential Program: Sophie Byatt, Serah Vimal, Olivia Kennedy and Lucy Schwennesen. For more information, visit Fairholme Pathways Program .
As a regional centre, Toowoomba has long been known for its charm, heritage and lifestyle – but in recent years, it has also become one of Queensland’s most exciting and dynamic growth corridors. After listening to demographer, Simon Kuestenmacher, recently, Toowoomba has a growing importance as Australia’s second largest regional hub, reflected by both population growth and economic data. For families choosing to live and educate their children in this region, there is much to celebrate – and a great reason to be optimistic about the future. Over recent weeks, I had the great honour of attending the ICPA (Isolated Children’s Parens’ Association) State Conference in St George – an inspiring gathering of parents, educators and community leaders passionate about ensuring equity in education for rural and remote students. What struck me most was the deep commitment to connection – to building strong pathways for children no matter where they live, and to strengthening the regions that sustain them. This theme could not be more relevant. Our city continues to experience significant population growth, attracting families not only from metropolitan areas but also from across Northern New South Wales. As the gateway to the Darling Downs and the south-west, Toowoomba services a vast catchment and this demand is driving impressive investment in infrastructure and opportunity, particularly in the health sector. Healthcare is currently the largest employer in the Toowoomba region, accounting for one in every five local jobs. That’s 20% of our regional workforce engaged in caring for others (Toowoomba Regional Council Economic Profile, 2023/4). This is only growing. With the new Toowoomba Hospital on the horizon (Queensland Government Darling Downs Health, 2025) and an ever-increasing demand to service areas throughout Queensland and Northern New South Wales, the need for dedicated, well-trained health professional has never been more urgent. And yet, as health services expand, there is a growing shortage o f workers – particularly in nursing, allied health, mental health and aged care. The good news is that regional students who study and train locally are far more likely to stay, live and work in those same communities (Regional Universities Network, NA). They – the young women in our classrooms now – are the future of our region. That is why I am so proud of the work happening in our College’s Health Hub. This innovative space is more than just a classroom – it is a launch pad. It’s where curiosity meets compassion and where students begin to imagine how they might make a positive impact. In 2024, Health was the single largest study area for our students – a strong sign that our young women are listening to the needs of their community and leaning into service. Our partnership program with Mater Education and on-the job options with STATIM Regional Health Solutions is already providing students with real work learning opportunities and micro credentialling to give them a head start with their future pathways. I recently received one of the loveliest letters I have e ver received in my time as an educator, from a grateful son whose mother had been provided care by one of our girls during work experience. He shared that ‘although this student’s genuine kindness is exceptional to our mind, I have no doubt that it is indicative of the values that are instilled in your Fairholme students more generally.’ With over a dozen of our current Year 12 girls eagerly preparing to sit their medical entry exams through UCAT preparations, this touching tribute to our students and staff could not be more fitting. With a rapidly changing world, there is no doubt that health remains one of the most stable and essential sectors – both now and into the future. But more than that, it is a deeply human profession. Whether our graduates go on to become doctors, nurses, paramedics, allied health professionals or researchers, we know they will be making an impact that matters. Toowoomba is not just growing - it is thriving. And as educators, we are excited to be helping shape a generation who will contribute meaningfully to that growth. Our College is proud to stand at the intersection of education, innovation and community service. To each of our families - thank you. Thank you for the sacrifices you make, the values you instil and the trust you place in us. The ICPA reminded me once again of the strength that exists in our rural and regional families - and of how important it is that our schools honour that strength with opportunity. The future looks bright – and I have every confidence it will be even brighter with our graduates at the helm. Have a restful break and I look forward to seeing you and your daughters back for an exciting and inspiring second semester. Dr Leigh Hobart Principal
