Meet the Centre Manager: Mel Grsic from Guardian Artarmon

Guardian Early Learning – Artarmon has recently joined Guardian Early Learning Group as one of our 100 high quality early learning centres across Australia. We welcome Centre Manager Mel Grsic, who heads up the team at Guardian Early Learning – Artarmon. Having worked in early childhood education for 18 years, she is a passionate and experienced professional who enjoys being a part of children’s learning journeys.

We take two minutes to find out a bit more about her career, what she loves about the Artarmon community and her interest in fitness (she’s a qualified Zumba instructor!).

The journey of learning and discovery and the reciprocal relationship between myself, children, families and my team are my inspiration.

Who or what inspires you in relationship to your role as Centre Manager?

Establishing warm and embracing relationships with children, families and my team is what makes my role as Centre Manager rewarding and so wonderful. As a Centre Manager I never stop learning and gain so much knowledge from children and their families. The journey of learning and discovery and the reciprocal relationship between myself, children, families and my team are my inspiration. The culture that has been created at Artarmon is unique.

How long have you been working in early education and care? What’s the most rewarding part of being an early childhood professional?

I have worked in Early Childhood Education for 18 years in a variety of roles. The most rewarding part of my professional journey has been the people I have worked with and welcoming that each individual can bring something unique to the team. I have thoroughly enjoyed mentoring other prospective Early Childhood Education but most of all the relationships that have been established.

Discuss your professional view on children’s learning.

I believe children learn through a combination of play and intentional teaching. Children are strong, capable and resilient with a curiosity to explore, investigate and hypothesise and test their theories. I believe the environment is the third teacher and is the foundation of children’s curiosity and research.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Fitness is very important to me. In my spare time if I am not at the beach I love to be running, swimming, cycling or boxing. I am a qualified Zumba instructor and love getting other people fit by moving to music. I love cooking and relaxing at the beach and of course I am always keen for any recommendations for a great Netflix series!

Lastly, what do you love most about the Artarmon community?

Artarmon is a very family orientated community with many events and festivities being celebrated throughout the year. It is so rewarding and fulfilling to be part of this and see children growing up together, establishing friendships and then moving onto the local school together. Many family relationships have been made at the centre and maintained even after the family has left the centre. We have many families that return to visit us on a regular basis.

Learn more about Guardian Artarmon

To find out more about this childcare centre in Sydney, head here.