Sandy Willick, a teacher and director at C&K Moorooka Community Kindergarten, is inspiring positive change through culturally aware pedagogy and practice, cultural wellbeing and the journey towards reconciliation. Her kindergarten serves a diverse and multicultural community including Russian, South African, Vietnamese, Chinese and Afghan families. Some come from trauma-affected backgrounds, speak English as a second or other language, and have limited social networks or community connections on arrival at the centre.

“We make them feel safe and support them in any way we can. Not just in the centre, but in the community to create belonging,” Mrs Willick said.

In the ten years she's been at the centre, Mrs Willick has co-constructed an outstanding array of initiatives, all based on meaningful, comprehensive cultural inclusion as an educational imperative, not an optional extra.

She established a centre Reconciliation Action plan and Elder in Residence program where children, families, and Yuggera Elder Uncle Desmond, learn about the Yuggera language and culture.

“The children are in awe of Uncle Desmond,” Mrs Willick said.

She also co-created a playgroup, now run by volunteers, where refugee and asylum-seeking families from around the community can meet each other.

“The trauma is the biggest challenge, making them feel safe. They come in and play and once they feel comfortable, they open up," Mrs Willick said.

“Across the street from our centre is a park. It's amazing to see families mingling because they met in the group.”

The kindergarten holds large gatherings for diverse members of the community, has reciprocal relationships with local support groups to help children with complex needs, and uses data to work with the early childhood group at Moorooka State School (MSS) to support successful transitions. There's also an Artist in Residence program.

Mrs Willick is dedicated to improving learning outcomes and teaching practice beyond her community through research projects and professional networks.

It’s the little things that have a big impact, too.

As a result of her steadfast leadership at the centre, different cultural practices and preparations are highly valued and included. An interpreter is available if people need it, there’s help for filling out forms, veggies and herbs are shared in a community garden, and families have access to puzzles and picture books in their language.

“Building relationships is foundational to our success and has taken time,” she said.

The centre is also a hub for families to cook and celebrate.

"The children love it. One little boy had never eaten curry until a kindy family cooked it. He had three helpings!"

She emphasises that kindergarten is a crucial time for children to develop self-worth, life skills and a love of learning.

"The kids transition from kindy to primary school loving themselves, proud of their identity, kind and caring,” she said.

“They're empowered and their families are set up in the community. I wouldn't change it for anything.”

Mrs Willick is a finalist at the Queensland College of Teachers TEACHX Awards, in Outstanding Contribution to Teaching category.

Winners will be announced October 27th, on the eve of World Teachers' Day in Queensland.