About Manilla Early Learning
Who We Are
Manilla Early Learning is a warm, community-focused early education centre supporting children aged 6 weeks to 6 years. We’re passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive at their own pace.
The centre has been part of the local community for many years, and in 2022 became proudly owned and operated by W.C. & S Childcare Pty Ltd, led by Sara Turner – an experienced early childhood educator with over 20 years in the field.
Our purpose-built centre is guided by the Early Years Learning Framework and the National Quality Standards, ensuring families can trust that their children are receiving high-quality care and education every day.
Our Philosophy
At Manilla Early Learning, we believe every child is capable, curious, and full of potential. Our programs encourage learning through play, meaningful relationships, and real-world experiences.
We focus on:
Building confidence and independence
Encouraging creativity and curiosity
Fostering a sense of belonging and respect
Supporting each child’s individual learning journey
Everything we do is grounded in the values of Belonging, Being and Becoming – creating a place where children feel safe, supported, and inspired to explore the world around them.

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Our People and Community
Our dedicated team of educators bring warmth, professionalism, and genuine care to everything they do. Many are long-standing members of our community who have watched local families grow over the years.
We work closely with families and value open communication, shared goals, and partnership in each child’s learning journey. Parents are always welcome to visit, contribute, or simply be part of our everyday routines.
Our Team
We’re proud to be a place where children feel at home, families feel supported, and learning feels joyful.

Sara Turner
Approved Provider and Nominated Supervisor

Bachelor of Early Childhood
Sara has worked in early childhood for 22 years.
Why did you become an educator?
I became an educator because I love watching children learn and grow. It amazes me what they can do and achieve. I enjoy seeing their progress as they develop into confident, well-rounded individuals.
What do you love about Manilla Early Learning?
I love that Manilla Early Learning is a small service with only two rooms, allowing siblings and families to stay connected throughout the day. All educators know every child and their family, creating a strong sense of community. Many educators have been at MEL for a long time, which brings a feeling of continuity, stability, and trust for both children and families.
Hobbies and interest away from work?
Spending time with my family and friends traveling with our van or at the kids sporting events.

Ashley Brown
Early Childhood Teacher

Bachelor of Early Childhood Teaching
Ash has worked in Early Childhood for 16.5 years.
Why did you become an educator?
I became an educator because I have a passion for educating young children and strongly believe that early childhood education is important.
What do you love about Manilla Early Learning?
We are a small and welcoming service with strong relationships with our families and community.
Hobbies and interest away from work?
I love to sing, learn to play new instruments and read.

Gemma Stackman
Educator

Cert lll in Early Childhood Education and Care studying Diploma
Gemma has worked in Early Childhood for 10 years.
Why did you become an educator?
I chose to become an educator to make a difference in children's lives. I am passionate about child development, and I find working with children incredibly rewarding. I love watching them learn, grow, and reach new milestones.
What do you love about Manilla Early Learning?
What I love about Manilla Early Learning is that it’s a reliable, safe, and nurturing environment. It’s a small, welcoming service with a friendly team, and it has that special small-town feel that makes families and educators feel truly connected.
Hobbies and interest away from work?
Enjoy Karaoke, trips away with the family, listening to music and learning new songs on my guitar.

Shayla Jordan
Educator

Diploma in Early childhood Education and Care

Naketta Cameron
Educator

Cert lll in Early childhood Education and Care
Naketta has worked in Early Childhood for 6 years.
Why did you become an educator?
I became an educator because I have a genuine passion for helping children learn, grow and reach their full potential. Working with young children brings me so much joy – seeing their curiosity, creativity, and confidence develop each day reminds me why I chose this path. I wanted to make a positive difference in children’s lives by creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where they feel valved and supported. Being an educator allows me to guide inspire, and learn alongside children, which is something I find deeply rewarding.
What do you love about Manilla Early Learning?
What I love about Manilla Early Learning is the welcoming and supportive environment that makes it feel like a close-knit community. The team works together with care and passion, creating a positive space where both children and educators can thrive. I love being a part of a centre that values play-based learning, inclusion and strong relationships with families. One of the things that makes MEL so special is how connected it is to the wider community events- building relationships with local families and being involved in community events gives a real sense of belonging and purpose. The sense of teamwork, respect, and joy that fills the centre makes coming to work each day something I truly look forward to.
Hobbies and interest away from work?
I enjoy an active and balanced lifestyle. Lifting weights and staying active helps me feel strong, focused and motivated. I also enjoy studying and continuing to learn new things that help me grow both personally and professionally. Most of all, I love spending quality time with my daughter – she inspires me everyday and reminds me of the importance of patients, love and enjoying the little moments together.

Rosie Hodson
Educator

Cert lll in Early childhood Education and Care

Bianca Woodward
Room Leader

Diploma in Early childhood Education and Care
Bianca has worked in Early Childhood for 16 years.
Why did you become an educator?
I am interested in supportive children’s early learning and development. I enjoy observing how the children explore, question and learn through play. I love children – being a mother.
What do you love about Manilla Early Learning?
I really enjoy working alongside such a great team of peers. Being part of a small, close-knit community allows me to get to know the children and their families really well. It’s a warm and welcoming environment, and I feel lucky to work with such a supportive and dedicated team.
Hobbies and interest away from work?
Spending time with friends and family. Love country music and the gym.

Racheal Kelly
Educator

Diploma in Early childhood Education and Care
Racheal has worked in Early Childhood for 17 years.
Why did you become an educator?
I became an educator because it is a deeply passionate and fulfilling profession. It gives me the opportunity to nurture and support children during the most formative stages of their lives. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to be creative—whether it's planning engaging experiences, reading stories, or simply being there to offer a comforting word and a caring presence
What do you love about Manilla Early Learning?
Working at Manilla Early Learning allows me to connect with the community and see familiar faces each day. It’s a very family-oriented centre where everyone works together and supports one another.
Hobbies and interest away from work?
Going away in the caravan, catching up with friends and family and doing renovations on my house.

Jenny Cochrane
Floater – Lunch covers

Cert lll in Early Childhood Education and Care
Jenny has worked in Early Childhood for 17 years.
Why did you become an educator?
I became an educator to support, encourage, and nurture the needs and skills of young children. I enjoy working with all age groups, as each child requires care, support, and guidance in their own unique way. My goal as an educator is to provide a safe and comforting environment where every child can thrive and reach their full potential.
What do you love about Manilla Early Learning?
What I love about Manilla Early Learning is the friendly team of educators and the support they give me. I enjoy working with all age groups and appreciate the opportunity to help meet each child's individual needs and provide the care and support they deserve.
Hobbies and interest away from work?
Fishing, gardening, walking and doing yard work.

Daikotah Bates
Educator


Sophia Maloney
School -based Trainee

Cert ll in Workplace Skills

Elizza Middleton
School-based Trainee

Cert lll in Early childhood Education and Care

Karen Mitchell
Cleaner


Join Our Learning Community
We’d love to welcome your family to Manilla Early Learning. Book a visit, meet our educators, and see how we create a supportive space where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to learn.