Centre Owner & Educational Leader
Hi there! My name is Rachel and I adore children and believe that they make life playful, fun, and joyful. Connecting with children and their families is one of my favorite things to do.
With over 22 years of experience working with children and families in a variety of roles, I am inspired to develop programs that support children’s sense of self, confidence, and independence. I focus on providing warm relationships and environments that foster healthy and secure attachments.
The development of Rachel’s Place Childcare Centre as a hub for families comes from my understanding that connection to community and support during the early years of parenting and a child’s life are vital to their health and well-being.
Centre Director & Childcare Teacher
Hi, I’m Kate (they/them), and I’m thrilled to be your kindy teacher! With 15 years of experience in the early childhood sector, I’ve had the privilege of working across a variety of settings, daycare centres, kindergartens, and schools.
My teaching is deeply rooted in social justice, with a particular focus on embedding First Nations perspectives and exploring themes of identity, rights, and self-advocacy. I believe early childhood is a crucial stage in development—one where children lay the foundations for their lifelong learning and growth. That's why I’m committed to a teaching approach that empowers children to develop a strong understanding of themselves, the world around them, and their place within it.
When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll likely find my wife, Meg, and me exploring Brisbane’s farmers markets or hunting for treasures in op shops! Our little dog, Stevie Nicks, often accompanies us on these adventures, though in her older age, she prefers to relax at home. We also love discovering new restaurants and supporting local artisans, so if you have any recommendations, we’d love to hear them!
Assistant Centre Director & Kindergarten Assistant
My name is Orawan and I love to see children flourish in a happy environment and believe that early childhood educators play a crucial role in preparing children for the world of learning.
I have been working in early education for over 12 years. I believe that play should be fun, exciting, spontaneous, hands-on, stimulating, relaxing, comforting, and challenging.
Every child should have the opportunity to learn from their decisions, including the chance to make their own choices, but always within the confines of a safe environment that ensures the safety and well-being of themselves and others.
As an educator, my role is to help children reflect on their actions and make appropriate choices. I strive to influence children by encouraging them to empathize with others.
Assistant Childcare Educator
Hi, I'm Jayme. I am 27 years old and have been living in Brisbane for the past 3 years. I have been enjoying my role in early childhood education and care for close to 5 years.
Throughout this time, I have been so fortunate to help children learn, grow and play. I love being a safe and reliable person for the little people of the world. I also love being able to build partnerships with all of the amazing families I meet along the way.
Outside of work, I enjoy going for walks in nature, drinking coffee and spending time with my family and friends. I can’t wait to meet you all!
Assistant Childcare Educator
Hello, I'm Hugh and I am passionate about working in early childhood because I believe the foundations for lifelong wellbeing, confidence and connection are formed in the earliest years.
As a father to a young daughter, I have developed a deep respect for the role educators play in supporting children’s emotional security, curiosity and sense of belonging. This personal experience, combined with my professional background in movement, mindfulness and education, has drawn me to early childhood settings that genuinely value relationships and the whole child.
I bring a strong understanding of physical development, body awareness and self-regulation through my studies in Exercise and Sports Science, alongside extensive training in meditation and mindfulness. I am particularly interested in supporting children to develop confidence in their bodies, resilience through play, and calm, grounded ways of being in the world.
I am drawn to Rachel’s Place because of its strong focus on attachment, community, outdoor play and respectful relationships. I value the centre’s commitment to seeing children as capable individuals and educators as reflective practitioners, and I am excited to be part of a team that prioritises connection, learning through experience, and creating a nurturing environment where children and families feel truly supported.
Lead Educator
My name is Kai and I have chosen to work in early childhood because I am deeply passionate about supporting children’s learning, wellbeing and sense of belonging through play-based, child-centred experiences.
My experience as an educator has strengthened my commitment to fostering curiosity, creativity and children’s agency, and I feel most fulfilled when I can build secure, trusting relationships that help each child grow in confidence and independence. Studying my Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care allows me to deepen my knowledge of the EYLF and best practice, which I bring into my daily work with children.
Since beginning at Rachel’s Place in April 2025, I have felt strongly connected to the service’s warm, inclusive culture and its focus on high-quality education and care. Taking on the Lead Educator role in the Junior Kindy program has given me the opportunity to design engaging environments, lead curriculum planning and mentor others, aligning with my strong leadership, organisation and teamwork skills.
I value the collaborative team, strong partnerships with families and the opportunity to create meaningful learning spaces where every child feels safe, respected and heard. For these reasons, I am committed to continuing my professional journey in early childhood at Rachel’s Place.
Lead Educator
Hi, my name is Zoe and I'm the Lead Educator for the 2-year-old children in our Pre-Kindy program. I have a long history of working with children that began when I was 2 years old.
My family ran a family day care business while I was growing up and I started nannying children when I was 12. I love children and am passionate about providing a safe and secure environment for them to learn and grow. Their sense of joy and fun is delightful, and I can't wait to see them each day and discover the happiness that each day brings.
I am currently studying for my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, and I am also pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work Honours at the University of Queensland, with the goal of working in child protection when I finish.
I believe that the relationships between parents, extended family members, and the team at Rachel's Place contribute to creating an emotionally safe space for all our children. If you see me, please come and say hello! I would love to get to know you!
Assistant Childcare Educator
Hello, my name is An and I’m very excited to have joined the team at Rachel’s Place as part of your child’s educational journey.
Originally from Germany and with a Vietnamese background, I’m fluent in English, German, and Vietnamese.
With a fun, bubbly, and kind personality, I am committed to creating a warm and inclusive environment where every child can thrive. I look forward to getting to know each of you and supporting your little ones as they grow and learn!
Assistant Childcare Educator
Hello, I’m Monica, and I’m very excited to join Rachel’s Place as a support educator. I have devoted more than a decade to working with children.
I have had the opportunity to take on various roles in teaching and early childhood education, each of which has provided me with valuable and joyous experiences.
I am passionate about empowering children to reach their full potential, in collaboration with families and educators. I believe that children develop and learn best when they are supported by people they trust and when they are given opportunities to explore and discover the world around them.
I look forward to building meaningful relationships with every child in our care and fostering positive partnerships with their families and friends.
Assistant Childcare Educator
Hi, my name is Jiexia and I love working at Rachel's Place, I enjoy the freedom I have to play and learn with the children and the calm stress free environment.
I have been working in child care for over 10 years, and I believe each child has their own potential. I love spending time with children and helping them on their learning adventure.
In my spare time I love reading to increase my knowledge, and listening to music to relax. I try to bring joyful energy to Rachel's Place combined with hard work and enthusiasm.
Assistant Childcare Educator
Hi, my name is Kayla and I have chosen to work in early childhood education because I am passionate about supporting children’s development, wellbeing and sense of belonging during their most formative years.
My background in psychology has given me a strong understanding of child development, behaviour and emotional needs, which I am eager to apply in practical, relationship-focused work with young children and their families. Completing my Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care in 2025 has further strengthened my commitment to creating safe, inclusive and nurturing environments where every child can thrive and feel valued.
I have specifically chosen Rachel’s Place because my two professional placements there allowed me to build strong connections with the children, families and educators, and to experience the service’s warm, community-focused culture. Through these placements, I developed confidence in planning and implementing engaging learning experiences, collaborating with colleagues and communicating with families in a respectful and supportive way.
I feel that the philosophy and practices at Rachel’s Place closely align with my values of empathy, respect, cultural sensitivity and holistic support for each child. For these reasons, I am excited to continue my professional journey as an early childhood educator at Rachel’s Place.