Early Learning Educator Jaspal Kaur—affectionately known as “Big Boss”—earns her nickname not from her title or stature, but from her immense impact and experience.
Over the past decade, she has helped shape a welcoming, supportive and inclusive environment at Anglicare’s Googong Early Learning Centre, one where children feel safe, valued and free to explore the world around them.
Originally from Punjab, India, Jaspal moved to Australia in 2010 and has called Queanbeyan home ever since. Drawn by the region’s strong sense of community and its opportunity, Jaspal has followed her passion for working with young children—describing it as “a career that provides deep personal satisfaction through making a positive impact in the community”.
From the beginning, Jaspal found a collaborative and supportive culture at the Googong centre. Surrounded by experienced educators and strong leadership, she says she felt encouraged to grow, and completed a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care through Anglicare College. Reflecting on that time, Jaspal says the guidance, flexibility and teamwork within the centre helped her build skills and further embed a culture of respectful, enjoyable learning into her practice.
The impact of her years of Jaspal’s dedication is reflected in feedback from families, including one parent who shared:
“From the very beginning, you have cared with so much love, patience, kindness and genuine warmth—it feels like a second parent at preschool. We feel incredibly lucky to have had you as part of [our child’s] early years.”
Jaspal is known for bringing warmth, creativity and a genuine love of learning into every interaction. Whether it is designing engaging learning experiences, supporting children to build confidence, or simply sharing in moments of play, Jaspal’s focus is always on helping every child thrive.
After ten years, what continues to inspire Jaspal is simple yet powerful—the joy of watching children excel through challenges, develop their resilience and investigate with curiosity.
“I love seeing how children’s actions support their thought system and knowing how my role contributes to making sure that thought system is healthy, safe and lots of fun”, she says.
While the role is not without challenges, particularly during staff shortages, Jaspal values the way the team comes together to support one another. “We take extra breaks, we rotate support for children with additional needs, and hold regular discussions to improve our practice. We also make time to debrief and look after our own wellbeing.”
Reflecting on the past decade, one thing remains clear—working at the centre is more than a job; it is being part of a community of care.
“I love waking up every day and knowing that I am working in an organisation that supports its staff. I have really enjoyed working at Googong Early Learning Centre for the past 10 years, and who knows, I might even retire here. I look forward to seeing the organisation continue to grow as a place where staff, children and the wider community feel heard and supported at every step.”
Anglicare extends its thanks to Jaspal for her ten years of dedication and the meaningful difference she has made to children, families and the community. The Googong community is incredibly fortunate to have her.
Anglicare are currently hiring Early Childhood Education and Care staff, including opportunities at Googong Early Learning Centre. If you, or someone you know, are passionate about supporting children, working in a collaborative team, and building a meaningful career, Anglicare offers a welcoming environment where you can grow and thrive.
Explore current opportunities on our Careers Page.
