Trusted local educator steps into top job at Junee Kids

JUNEE Kids Early Learning has entered a new chapter, with respected local educator Elizabeth Robbie stepping into the role of centre director as the service continues through a period of growth and transition.

Well-known throughout the Junee community, Elizabeth officially stepped into the top job in January, bringing with her decades of experience in early childhood education and a long history of caring for local families.

Having nurtured generations of children across the Junee Shire throughout her career, Elizabeth says her focus is firmly on creating a centre where families feel supported, welcomed and connected.

Junee Kids Early Learning Centre Director Elizabeth Robbie | Image: Supplied

The trusted educator told The Junee Bulletin she had spent her first few months supporting staff, strengthening systems and creating a warm, consistent environment for children and families.

“Since stepping into the role in January, my focus has been on supporting the educator team through a period of change and strengthening the structure, care and pedagogy for all children,” she said.

“Junee Kids is a large service that is filled with natural sunlight and surrounded by nature. But that doesn’t mean it is impersonal or institutional. Our aim is to make every family feel special and supported in their early learning journey.”

Image: © The Junee Bulletin

Since opening in 2022, Junee Kids has grown into the town’s largest early learning service, operating a modern 102-place facility complete with a dedicated 25-seater excursion bus, exclusive swimming program, and expansive outdoor play spaces, paddocks, gardens and animal enclosures.

It is part of a broader family of privately owned early learning services across the Riverina, with sister sites in South Albury, Corowa and Leeton.

The centre’s outdoor environment is more than double the minimum size required under department regulations, allowing children greater space to explore, learn and connect with nature through the service’s bush kinder and farm daycare programs.

Junee Kids’ expansive outdoor learning spaces are more than double the minimum size required under department regulations | Image: © The Junee Bulletin

Elizabeth’s appointment marks a fresh phase for the centre, which has continued evolving in recent months through expanded programs, new initiatives and a renewed focus on consistency, community connection and growth.

Under her leadership, the centre is expected to continue strengthening its unique offering by combining nature-based education with practical, real-world learning experiences.

“We have so many opportunities to grow our excursion program,” Elizabeth said.

“With the bus available for transporting children to swimming lessons already up and running, we hope to add special events like theatre and museums in the region.”

Junee Kids’ dedicated excursion bus has opened the door to swimming lessons and off-site learning experiences for local children | Image: © The Junee Bulletin

Junee Kids HR Manager Samantha Gugliotti said Elizabeth’s appointment had already brought a sense of confidence and stability to the service.

“Elizabeth brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role,” Samantha said.

“She’s incredibly warm, passionate about education, and already has such strong connections with so many families throughout the Junee community.

“A lot of families already know and trust her, including generational families she’s cared for over the years, so she’s been a really natural fit for the role.”

READ MORE: Junee Kids rolls out new excursion bus

Samantha said Elizabeth’s leadership and ability to guide educators and families had made a significant impact in a short period of time.

“Running a centre is such a complex job because you wear so many hats,” she said.

“Her ability to lead a team, support and guide our families, mentor educators and bring fresh ideas has been fantastic. We’re really excited for what’s ahead under her leadership.”

A new chapter is underway at Junee Kids Early Learning | Image: Supplied

Looking ahead, Elizabeth said her focus would remain on continuing to strengthen the team, grow enrolments and further establish Junee Kids as a trusted hub for local families.

“We are looking to continue building on our numbers of educators, teachers and children,” she said.

“My vision for the service is to become a hub for the community, a place known for its planned education, loving care and extensive knowledge.

“A service with a full-time bush kinder program and thriving garden that can be used to feed and educate our children.”

Little learners harvest fresh produce from the Junee Kids veggie garden | Image: Supplied

Elizabeth encouraged families interested in the centre to book a tour, meet the team and experience the service first-hand.

“We’d love families to come in, have a look around, have a chat and get a feel for who we are and what we do,” she said.

Interested families are encouraged to book a tour or contact the centre to learn more about available placements and programs.