YMCA Riverbanks ELC

Danelle - Assistant Director

My philosophy in early childhood education is to create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment where every child feels valued, respected, and confident to learn through play. I believe strong, trusting relationships with children, families, and educators are the foundation of quality education and care. I am passionate about supporting each child’s individual strengths, encouraging their curiosity, and helping them develop the confidence and skills they need to thrive. Working in the childcare sector is incredibly rewarding because I have the privilege of making a positive difference in children’s lives every day while helping shape the foundations of their future.

Demi – Koala (Nursery) Team Leader

Hi, I’m Demi, the Nursery Team Leader, here at Riverbanks ELC. I am a mum of 2, who I absolutely adore and in my spare time I love making memories and going out with my family. I have been working in early learning for 8 years now, I strongly believe each child is unique and different in their own ways, as an educator i respect the different aspects of each child and teach accordingly, whilst making sure the children always feel safe, secure and supported.

Shayla – Kookaburra (Toddler) Team Leader

Hi! I’m Shayla, I am a Toddler Team Leader here at Riverbanks ELC.

I've loved helping to shape the young minds of children in the childcare industry. I've had been working as a childhood educator for 7 years now, starting off as a trainee student on placement at a community centre in 2018. Then once I completed my certificate III in early childhood education, I was offered a job as a early childhood educator at the service of which I completed my placement. I later when on to study for my diploma in early childhood education. After five years I wanted to gain experience through another service which is when I began working at Riverbanks ELC in 2022.

With my experience in early childhood education, I’ve created my personal philosophy relating to early childhood care. I strive to provide children with high quality care, leading a helping hand and caring heart. Helping children and their families work towards goal development so they can grow to their full well-rounded potential.

Samantha – Team Leader Kindy Room

Hello, I am Samantha but usually get called Sammy. I have loved being a part of various roles within the service and have taken on the role of content creator. This allows me to share with the families the fun and creative experiences and activities that the children explore throughout the day. I have a passion for creating an engaging and exciting learning environment for children to explore whilst encouraging a safe, secure and supported environment where all children feel a sense of security. I love building a relationship with all children and families within the centre and creating a small community.

Dekoda – Team Leader Nursery Room

Hi, my name is Dekoda, I have been in the early childhood industry since leaving school in 2023 when I completed my certificate III in early childhood education. I believe play-based learning is ideal for the early stages in a child’s life. I enjoy lots of singing and dancing, being outside, and getting messy in play with the children, my favourite part of the day is walking in the room to see all the children engaged and playing with one another.

Abigail – Educator

Hi, I’m Abigail, but I prefer to be called Abi. I am a dedicated Assistant Educator with a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, working in the early childhood industry since 2021. I am passionate about creating safe, supportive, and engaging learning environments where children can thrive and develop to their fullest potential. With a strong commitment to fostering positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues, I strive to contribute to high-quality education and care within our community.

Brittany – Educator

Hi! I’m Brittany. I’m currently studying my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. I am really enjoying the beginning of my career journey. I have a passion for supporting children as they grow, discover, and explore the world around them. I have a little dog named Ellie, she’s a 3-year-old Maltese Shih Tzu and basically my daughter! I also enjoy travelling, especially with family and friends.

Chloe – Educator

Hi, I’m Chloe, I have been in the industry for 5 years. I am passionate about children’s learning and thriving in a supportive environment, particularly in the first 5 years as these are their most critical years. I love messy play, bonus if it involves glitter. I believe the more mess involved the more fun has been had. I enjoy challenges where I have fulfilled numerous leadership roles and had a lot of learning experiences along the way.

Outside of being an educator I am a wife and a mum to a very sassy daughter; I also have a dog so in my household there is never a dull moment however I love my forever busy life.

Dakota – Educator

Hi my names Dakota and I’m a mum to an adventurous little boy. I’ve been working in the early years industry for the past 5 years now and currently hold my diploma in early education. I strongly believe that the first 5 years of a child’s life is the most important as it paves the way of their learnings through every stage of development. Over the years I’ve had experience in leading rooms and working with all different ages but always find myself thriving in the nursery as I love following routines and schedules.

I love being able to create safe and inviting spaces for children and families to feel supported and to create endless opportunities for children to grow and learn.

Jade – Educator

Hi, I’m Jade, and I’ve been a proud part of the Riverbanks ELC team for nearly three years. I’m deeply committed to creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child feels seen, heard, and supported. My philosophy centres on encouraging children’s growth through creativity, emotional connection, and respectful relationships. I believe in guiding children as capable, curious learners and value the unique stories and strengths each child brings to our shared space.

Nicole – Educator

Hi, I’m Nicole, and I have been working in childcare for 3 years, I am passionate about supporting children's wellbeing and believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and play in a nurturing environment.
Becoming a mum to my daughter inspired me to pursue a career in childcare where I am able to support and nurture young minds every day. Outside of work, I enjoy winding down by watching my favourite shows and spending quality time with my family.

Rebecca – Educator

I prefer to be called Bec. I have been in the Early Childhood Education and Care sector for 3 years and I hold a Certificate 3. In my spare time I enjoy going to sporting events and concerts.

Sophie - Educator

Hi, I’m Sophie! I am proud to be a part of the Riverbanks team. I hold my certificate 3 in early childhood and have been working in the industry since 2024. I love singing, dancing and doing arts and crafts. I have a genuine passion for working with children and feel incredibly lucky to be part of their early learning journey. I love creating a warm, safe, and welcoming environment where every child feels valued, supported, and encouraged to explore the world around them. Building strong relationships with children and their families is something I truly enjoy, and I believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive at their own pace. Seeing children develop new skills, gain confidence, and celebrate their achievements is what makes working in early childhood education so rewarding for me.

Zu – Educator

Hi! I’m Zu. I am currently hold my Certificate III in Early Childhood and am a educator in the Toddler room. I do Karate in my spare time, and I hold a black belt. I am a Mum of three children, and I was born in Singapore and my family currently live over there.

Courtney – Centre Cook

Hi, I’m Courtney and I am the centre cook, new to the role as I was previously an assistant educator for the centre. I still work as an assistant educator in the afternoons 4 days a week. I find this rewarding, as it allows me to keep the relationships I have with the children, as well as creating relationships with children new to the service. I started working in early childhood in 2023, and it has always been a passion of mine to make a difference and support children's learning and development. Previously to working for YMCA, I completed a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Counselling and Interpersonal Skills). Working as the centre cook has become so rewarding, to hear the children talk positively about the food I cook, and by offering a seasonal menu, it provides opportunities to expose the children to a wide variety of nutritious foods. I’m also a mum to 2 beautiful boys who love being outdoors and are constantly on the go! and our favourite place to go as a family is to the Riverland.