Community-Led Excellence
Sherbourne Preschool thrives as a not-for-profit community organization where families, educators, and the local community work together to create an exceptional early learning environment. Our governance model ensures every voice is heard and every child’s needs are met.
As a community preschool, we combine the best of both worlds - professional educational leadership with active parent involvement in governance. This unique model creates a warm, responsive environment where families truly belong.
Our Leadership Structure
👩💼 Professional Leadership Team
Katrina Failla - Manager & Lead Teacher
With over 15 years of early childhood experience, Katrina provides:
- Educational program oversight and quality assurance
- Staff leadership and professional development
- Family liaison and community partnerships
- Regulatory compliance and best practice implementation
"My role is to ensure every child receives the highest quality education while maintaining the warm, community feel that makes Sherbourne special."
Professional Support Team
- Narelle Allen - 3-Year-Old Teacher & Educational Leader
- Tracy Simpson - 4-Year-Old Teacher & School Transition Specialist
- Administrative Staff - Enrolments, fees, and daily operations
- Educational Assistants - Supporting quality ratios and individual needs
Committee of Management
🌟 Parent Governance at Its Best
Our voluntary Committee of Management brings together passionate parents who guide the strategic direction of our preschool. This isn’t just about meetings - it’s about shaping the future of early education in our community.
What We Do
- Set strategic direction
- Oversee finances
- Approve policies
- Support staff
- Plan improvements
Why Get Involved
- Shape your child's preschool
- Connect with families
- Develop new skills
- Make lasting friendships
- Give back to community
📋 Committee Positions
Our committee structure ensures all aspects of preschool life are represented:
Executive Positions
Strategic leadership & meeting chair
Communications & documentation
Financial oversight & reporting
Support & succession planning
Specialist Roles
Funding opportunities
Risk management
Facility upkeep
Educational support
Family communications
Technology systems
Community events
External partnerships
Each age group elects representatives to ensure all families' voices are heard:
- 3-Year-Old Group Community Representative
- 4-Year-Old Group Community Representatives
How It All Works Together
🔄 Collaborative Governance Model
| Area | Committee Role | Staff Role |
|---|---|---|
| Strategic Direction | Sets vision & goals | Implements & advises |
| Educational Program | Approves philosophy | Designs & delivers |
| Finances | Approves budgets | Manages day-to-day |
| Policies | Reviews & approves | Develops & implements |
| Community | Represents families | Builds relationships |
Meeting Schedule & Participation
📅 When We Meet
Monthly Committee Meetings
- When: Second Tuesday of each month
- Time: 7:30pm - 9:00pm
- Where: Preschool meeting room or via Zoom
- Who: Open to all parents!
Can't commit to the committee? You're still welcome to attend meetings and share your ideas!
🎯 Annual General Meeting
November AGM - Save the Date!
Our yearly celebration and election of new committee members. This is where:
- We celebrate the year's achievements
- New committee members are elected
- Annual reports are presented
- Future directions are discussed
Join Our Leadership Team
💪 No Experience Necessary!
Many of our most successful committee members started with no governance experience. We provide:
- Orientation for new members
- Handover from previous role holders
- Support from executive team
- Training opportunities
- Flexibility to match your availability
🌟 Real Parent Testimonials
"Joining the committee seemed daunting at first, but it's been incredibly rewarding. I've made wonderful friends and feel truly connected to my child's education."
- Emma, former Treasurer
"As Maintenance Coordinator, I've helped create beautiful outdoor spaces for the children. It's amazing to see their joy in the improvements we've made together."
- Mark, current committee member
Quality Assurance
🏅 Exceeding Standards
Our governance structure ensures we consistently exceed National Quality Standards:
Regulatory Compliance
Meeting all government requirements
Educational Excellence
Evidence-based practices
Child Safety
Comprehensive protection policies
Financial Sustainability
Transparent, responsible management
Get Involved Today
Be Part of Something Special
Your involvement, whether on the committee or as an active parent,
makes Sherbourne Preschool the wonderful community it is.
Questions About Getting Involved?
We'd love to chat about how you can contribute to our preschool community.
📧 admin@sherbournepreschool.vic.edu.au
📞 9439 2992
Ask to speak with Katrina (Manager) or any current committee member!