ETC Announces Columba Cottage as Employer of the Month

Early Learning Centre Columba Cottage based at Port Macquarie has been announced as the Enterprise & Training Company Limited (ETC) Employer of the Month.

Established in February 2009 the centre started off with 50 children which has since increased to 138, bringing more employment opportunities to the region to cater for its growth.

Executive Director Susanna Christie said the centre now employs 42 permanent workers, plus 20 casuals and vacation care people.

“We’re here to look after the local community not only from a childcare perspective but there’s a great opportunity to start off your career here,” Ms Christie said.

“We currently have three Certificate III Trainees and five Diploma Trainees with plenty of fully qualified staff for them to learn from and be mentored by.”

Ms Christie said there was a number of staff who had also progressed to undertaking an Early Childhood Teaching Degree.

“We love to see our staff develop professionally. One of our young trainees started off very quiet and shy, but following some mentoring from the room leaders and training we now have the most amazing, confident, mature young lady. Two days after she finished her Certificate III she enrolled straight into the Diploma. She’s enjoyed herself so much and has found herself a career path,” Ms Christie said.

Instilling a fun workplace culture was important to make the working environment more enjoyable for staff according to Ms Christie.

“We’re a very friendly organisation and there’s lots of fun to be had. We do have a wonderful bunch of people working here,” Ms Christie said.

“And we’re very happy to be awarded as ETC’s Employer of the Month. It’s a great privilege!”

Located on the grounds of St Columba Anglican School in Port Macquarie NSW, Columba Cottage Early Learning Centre (CCELC) is a purpose-built childcare facility for children aged 0-5 years. For more information contact 02 6581 4433 or visit www.ccelc.nsw.edu.au

ETC provides employment, training and business services in Port Macquarie. If you need help finding a job, are looking for staff or are interested in up-skilling, contact ETC on 1800 007 400 or visit the ETC office in Port Macquarie at 133-137 Gordon Street.