In this episode, Karen Pollard of Community Services #1 explores the journey of room leaders as they transition to broader leadership roles in the ECEC sector.
Our Expert Karen Pollard
Karen Pollard is an experienced leader with over 30 years in the Community Services sector across ACT and NSW, specializing in early childhood education, community support, and health care. As Executive Director of Community Services, she oversees a diverse portfolio, managing complex operations and large teams with agility and expertise. Holding diplomas in Early Education and Care and Training and Assessment, she is committed to professional development and quality service delivery. Karen also chairs the CS#1 RAP committee, contributes to sector initiatives through the Children’s First Alliance and ACT Health Steering Committee for CATS, and volunteers with Lifeline.
About Community Services #1
Community Services #1 is a profit-for-purpose organization supporting individuals and families across ACT and NSW through a diverse range of programs. Their services include early childhood education, out-of-school care, aged care support, community transport, social support groups, and The Food Pantry, which provides essential goods to those in need. CS#1 also offers out-of-hospital care, helping individuals transition safely back home. Committed to enhancing community well-being, CS#1 strives to connect people and enrich lives through compassionate and practical support.
In this episode we cover:
– Philosophy and relationships in education
– Curiosity and continuous learning in leadership
– The importance of kindness and acknowledgment
– Bridging the gap in early childhood education
A sneak peek inside the episode:
“Right from the very beginning, it’s understanding the role of the nominated supervisor and the person that’s in day-to-day charge because it has a huge responsibility. You can’t say ‘I want to be a leader’ and ‘I want to run a centre if you’re not prepared to have your name on the door and be that person.”
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