Lil Crafters (now Operating as Highlands Art Play)
Bowral
22
years of professional experience
An energetic, enthusiastic and creative individual, passionate about working with children and their families, flexible in approach and experienced in working in a variety of childcare settings and management roles. I am a passionate play advocate who believes in the power and benefits of play and creativity in children's early years. I enjoy setting up and facilitating joyful creative experiences that foster cognitive, physical, social and emotional skills through exploration and imagination.
I enjoy hands-on work and excel in team environments, both as a leader and team member, and thrive in the diverse scenarios that come with working with children and communities. I am passionate about the importance of art and play in childhood education, and gain fulfilment in helping guide children to reach their full potential.
Work History
CHILDREN'S ART FACILITATOR
1 Year 5 Months
Ngununggula, Southern Highlands Regional Gallery | 05.2025 - Current
Develop and implement engaging art programs and sensory play experiences for toddlers and preschoolers.
Develop and facilitate art and craft programs catering to school-aged children for after school and school holiday programs.
Facilitate process art and play experiences and workshops that encourage creativity, learning through play and process while building social skills and connection.
CHILDCARE EDUCATOR
1 Year 6 Months
Wingecarribee Shire Council | 04.2025 - Current
Cared for children in before- and after-school care.
Collaborated with parents to provide updates on child progress and address developmental concerns.
Developed engaging lesson plans that promote cognitive and social development in children.
Implemented individualized learning strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles and needs.
Fostered a positive, inclusive environment encouraging children's emotional growth and self-esteem.
OWNER/OPERATOR
13 Years 6 Months
Lil Crafters (now Operating as Highlands Art Play) | 04.2013 - Current
I established and run a successful small business offering process art, craft and sensory play classes for pre-schoolers, school holiday workshops, bespoke children’s parties and corporate events.
Key abilities:
Plan and implement program of classes across eight-week terms; all preparation and clean-up after classes and events.
Communicate and engage meaningfully with children of all ages.
Facilitate learning through art, craft and sensory play activities.
Establish and maintain close relationships with clients, from parents to event managers.
Maintain social media accounts
Book-keeping, advertising, budgeting.
CO-ORDINATOR
5 Years 7 Months
Newtown Kids Cottage OOSHC, Newtown Public School | 02.2006 - 09.2011
I worked alongside the manager to co-ordinate and execute the daily operations of a busy and diverse before/after school care centre during a period of rapid growth.
Key responsibilities:
Implement and maintain policies and procedures set out by NKC.
Plan, implement and evaluate an exciting, diverse activities program, including children with special needs and those from diverse backgrounds.
Ensure the provision and maintenance of equipment, facilities and resources
Ensure all essential documentation is implemented and maintained including but not limited to enrolment, signing in/out, client files, etc
Work with staff, children and families to implement behaviour management plans.
SCHOOL ASSISTANT
3 Years 4 Months
Newtown Public School | 05.2006 - 09.2009
I worked as a Teacher's Aide assisting and supporting children with special needs in the classroom.
Key responsibilities:
To support children with their schoolwork on a one-on-one basis in the classroom environment
To support children in all aspects of school life; ie education, socialising and assisting to self-regulate emotions.
ASSISTANT MANAGER
1 Year 5 Months
Papyrus Ltd | 05.2004 - 10.2005
I managed a boutique high street homewares and gift shop in Glasgow, Scotland.
Key responsibilities:
Delivering the highest standard of customer service.
Opening and closing store at beginning and end of day, banking daily takings.
Creatively merchandising stock in store, receiving and dispatching orders.
Rostering, training of new staff.
CHILDCARE SPECIAL NEEDS ASSISTANT
6 Months
Jack & Jill Kindergarten | 07.2003 - 01.2004
I worked with an autistic pre-school child to support and prepare him for school.
Key responsibilities:
Assisting an individual with special needs in a daycare environment.
Creating a one-on-one program to suit his needs.
Assessing his progress and communicating this to his parents and the governing body.
Director of Children's and Youth Ministries at Macedonia United Methodist ChurchDirector of Children's and Youth Ministries at Macedonia United Methodist Church