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ABOUT USWe Understand Your Childcare Needs

Providing the Best Environment for Your Child

We are privileged to be trusted by hundreds of families throughout regional Victoria. We are here to help ensure children have the very best opportunities in life.

Bringing the Highest Quality in Early Learning

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Specially
Designed

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A Home Away
from Home

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Inspired Learning
Spaces

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Supportive and
Nurturing Educators

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Spacious Indoor &
Outdoor Environments

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Community Spirit

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ACECQA
Accredited

The right way of learning

Jenny’s Early Learning Centre’s philosophy is simple. Learning is a part of the fun! We want each of our children to develop and learn in an environment that encourages them to have fun and explore their interests.

THE PILLARSLearning is part of the fun

Our Educators

Our educators assist our children to develop their skills and understanding, helping them to learn about their responsibilities to others and to the community – valuing teamwork and collaboration. We are committed to equity and believe in each child’s capacity to succeed.

Our Community

We ensure that each child experiences sharing and learning with others in a range of environments to develop a positive sense of identity, and experience respectful, responsive relationships that strengthens their interests and skills as they learn to be active contributors to their world.

Our Children

We believe that as children grow, they develop personal interests and construct their own identities and understandings of the world. It is important for each child to undertake this process at their own pace, discovering new interests and skills through undertaking diverse and stimulating activities.

Our Families

We build respectful collaborative relationships, placing importance on each family’s expertise, culture and beliefs. We welcome families to be active participants in their child’s learning and well-being and pride ourselves on our ability to communicate freely and openly with our families.

MEET OUR TEAMInspiring and passionate

Our passionate team of educators bring enthusiasm and excitement to the Early Childhood sector. Our Educators work collaboratively to challenge and learn from each other, using their strengths to develop and support high quality learning programs for each child.

Meet the leaders of our team!

Millicent Backway

Ballarat Central Centre Director

Jenna Baker

Maiden Gully Centre Director

Bridie Lyle

Strathfieldsaye Centre Director

Kiera Reilly

Bendigo Hospital Centre Director

Proven Blake

Epsom Centre Director

Lesley Aspland

The Arch Centre Director

Stephanie Trentin

Lara Centre Director

Amy Orchard

Grovedale Centre Director

Christine Bristow

Armstrong Creek Centre Director

Sam Sherwell

Norlane Centre Director

Sarah Cassell

Delacombe Centre Director

Nikki Davis

Soldier’s Hill Centre Director

Rachel Christopher

Waurn Ponds Centre Director

Coming Soon!

Winter Valley Centre Director

Coming Soon!

Leopold Centre Director

Become a part of Jenny’s Early Learning Centre

At Jenny’s Early Learning Centre, we are committed to providing an engaging environment for not only our children, but for our educators as well. We believe that the right people, no matter their qualifications can grow, learn and make a difference in people’s lives.

If you are an experienced Early Childhood professional, or someone who is looking for a rewarding and dynamic career with us, apply to join the team today. We are biased but we think Jenny’s Early Learning Centre educators are the best!

Our Centres

Jenny’s Early Learning Centre has multiple locations across central Victoria, hosting state of the art facilities that meet the unique developmental needs of every child.

Jenny’s Early Learning Centre - Bendigo
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Jenny’s Early Learning Centre - Epsom
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Jenny’s Early Learning Centre - Maiden Gully
View Maiden Gully
Jenny’s Early Learning Centre - STRATHFIELDSAYE
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Jenny’s Early Learning Centre - The Arch
View The Arch
Jenny’s Early Learning Centre - Ballarat Central
View Ballarat Central
Jenny’s Early Learning Centre - Delacombe
View Delacombe
Jenny’s Early Learning Centre - Soldiers Hill
View Soldiers Hill
Jenny’s Early Learning Centre - Winter Valley
View Winter-Valley
Jenny’s Early Learning Centre - Lara
View Lara
Jenny’s Early Learning Centre - WAURN PONDS
View Waurn Ponds
Jenny’s Early Learning Centre - ARMSTRONG CREEK
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Jenny’s Early Learning Centre - Norlane
View Norlane
Jenny’s Early Learning Centre - GROVEDALE
View Grovedale
Jenny’s Early Learning Centre - Leopold
View Leopold
Jenny’s Early Learning Centre - Melton
View Melton
Jenny’s Early Learning Centre - Frankston Hospital
View Frankston Hospital

We care about you

Happy families, happy children and happy educators make Jenny’s Early Learning Centre the best place to be.

Proven Blake

P: (03) 5448 4520
E: epsom@jennyselc.com.au

My name is Proven Blake, and I am the Centre Director at Jenny’s ELC Epsom. I have worked in Early Childhood Education for over 26 years and have developed a deep passion for supporting children, educators, and families in their learning, growth, and wellbeing.

I have been part of the Jenny’s ELC Epsom community for five years, beginning my journey as the Second in Charge before stepping into the Centre Director role. I was fortunate to learn from an incredible mentor and am proud to continue building on their legacy through strong leadership and community connection.

I believe the early years lay the foundation for lifelong learning and am passionate about creating safe, nurturing, and engaging environments where children feel confident to explore and be themselves. Building meaningful, trusting relationships is my favourite part of early childhood education and continues to inspire me every day.

Jenna Baker

P: (03) 5449 7555
E: maidengully@jennyselc.com.au

My journey in Early Childhood Education has been shaped by growth, connection, and genuine passion. Growing up surrounded by children and becoming an aunty at a very young age sparked my love for this profession.

Over nearly 11 years with Jenny’s ELC, I have had the privilege of growing from a casual educator to Room Leader, Assistant Director, and now Director. Each role has shaped me as both an educator and leader.

As a mother of two, I understand how important it is for families to feel confident, supported, and welcomed. Creating a safe, nurturing environment that feels like a home away from home is at the heart of everything I do. I am equally passionate about fostering a positive workplace culture where educators feel valued, supported, and proud of the work they do.My journey in Early Childhood Education has been shaped by growth, connection, and genuine passion. Growing up surrounded by children and becoming an aunty at a very young age sparked my love for this profession.

Over nearly 11 years with Jenny’s ELC, I have had the privilege of growing from a casual educator to Room Leader, Assistant Director, and now Director. Each role has shaped me as both an educator and leader.

As a mother of two, I understand how important it is for families to feel confident, supported, and welcomed. Creating a safe, nurturing environment that feels like a home away from home is at the heart of everything I do. I am equally passionate about fostering a positive workplace culture where educators feel valued, supported, and proud of the work they do.

Bridie Lyle

P: (03) 5439 4774
E: strathfieldsaye@jennyselc.com.au

I have been working in Early Childhood Education and Care for six years and have spent almost two of those years with Jenny’s ELC. While I have worked in other services, Jenny’s ELC truly feels like home. The strong sense of community, supportive leadership, and meaningful relationships with families make it a place I am proud to be part of.

I hold a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and Care and am passionate about making a positive difference for children and families in our local community. I love being part of children’s early years and supporting their first milestones, knowing the lasting impact quality early learning can have.

My favourite moments are when children are excited to see you each day—those moments reflect the trust and strong connections built over time. I am committed to creating a warm, inclusive environment where every child feels safe, supported, and valued.

Kiera Reilly

P: (03) 5444 3991
E: bendigohospital@jennyselc.com.au

I have had the privilege of working in Early Childhood Education for approximately 17 years, with more than 10 of those years spent at Jenny’s ELC. I began my journey at the Strathfieldsaye service as a Room Leader before moving to Bendigo Hospital in 2019 as Assistant Director.

During my time as Assistant Director, I was fortunate to step into several interim Director roles across multiple Jenny’s ELC services before taking on the permanent Director role at Bendigo Hospital in 2022, where I remain today.

Working in early childhood education is a privilege. Families place immense trust in us to support and guide their children, and being able to make such a meaningful, positive impact is incredibly rewarding. I value the strong relationships built with both children and families, and nothing compares to the joy and excitement children bring each day.

Early Childhood Education has always been where I knew I belonged, and I cannot imagine doing anything else. Outside of work, my little boy keeps me very busy, and we love spending time outdoors with family and friends.

Megan Siemek

P: (03) 5244 2949
E: waurnponds@jennyselc.com.au

My name is Megan Siemek and I’m really excited to be joining Jenny’s family. I have over 16 years experience in childcare with 10 years working in the Centre Director role. My mission is to ensure each and every child in our care enjoys the most positive, happy experience of growth through learning and playing each and every day they share with us. I’m passionate about educating and nurturing the children and educators knowledge by promoting and expanding their individual abilities, extending their talents and interests.

Lesley Aspland

P:  03 5303 9090 
E: thearch@jennyselc.com.au

I began my journey in Early Childhood Education in 2020 after transitioning from a career in aged care. Moving into early learning felt like a natural progression, driven by my desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

I have been with Jenny’s ELC for three years, working in a Director role. My journey has been one of significant growth, learning, and development, both professionally and personally. I am incredibly proud of how far I have come.

I am passionate about early childhood education because of the strong relationships formed with children and families—these connections are the heart of what we do. I originally entered the sector with a focus on supporting children with diverse needs and quickly realised this was exactly where I was meant to be. I feel incredibly privileged that families trust us each day with their children’s learning and care.

Stephanie Trentin

P: (03) 4224 3022
E: lara1@jennyselc.com.au

I have spent the past 13 years working in Early Childhood Education, a profession I am deeply passionate about and proud to be part of. I have recently joined the Jenny’s ELC team and am looking forward to building meaningful relationships with children and families, while becoming an active and supportive presence within the centre community.

I am passionate about early learning because the first five years of a child’s life are foundational, shaping who they become and how they experience the world. It is a privilege to support children during this important time—nurturing their curiosity, confidence, and love of learning so they can thrive as they grow.

One of my favourite aspects of working in Early Childhood Education is collaborating with and mentoring educators, supporting their professional growth while working together to achieve the best possible outcomes for children. I am grateful every day to be part of a profession that values strong relationships, positive learning environments, and the lasting impact of quality early education.

Christine Bristow

P: (03) 5295 7400
E: armstrongcreek@jennyselc.com.au

My name is Christine, and I bring more than 35 years of experience in Early Childhood Education and Care. Throughout my career, I have been deeply committed to nurturing, guiding, and supporting children during their most important developmental years.

I joined Jenny’s ELC in October 2024 and have been part of the Armstrong Creek service since its opening in November 2024. Being involved from the very beginning of a new service has been incredibly rewarding and has allowed me to help build a welcoming, inclusive environment for children, families, and educators.

My philosophy centres on the belief that strong relationships and a connected community are the foundation of quality early learning. I am passionate about providing play-based learning experiences that support each child’s unique development and foster curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Sarah Cassell

P: (03) 8376 9220
E: delacombe@jennyselc.com.au

My name is Sarah, and I have been working in the early childhood sector since 2019, with more than four and a half years’ experience in leadership and management roles. My decision to join the industry was inspired by my own experience as a parent, after seeing the positive impact of an exceptional early learning environment on my children. I wanted to be part of creating that same supportive, welcoming experience for other families.

I began my journey with Jenny’s ELC in July 2025, supporting the Director at the Ballarat Central service before being appointed Centre Director at the Delacombe service.

As a Centre Director, I am deeply passionate about creating a positive, happy, and connected community. I take great pride in working alongside educators and families to ensure every child receives the highest standard of care in a warm, nurturing environment.

Nikki Davis

P:  03 5303 9090 
E: soldiershill@jennyselc.com.au

I have been working in the early childhood sector since 2019 and began my career as a Centre Chef at the Delacombe service. I have been part of the Jenny’s ELC community for almost three years, starting at The Arch as a Room Assistant Educator before progressing into the role of Educational Leader with the support and guidance of the leadership team.

With the skills and confidence I developed in this role, I was given the opportunity to step into the position of Centre Director at our Soldiers Hill service, where I have been working closely with the team over the past few months.

I am passionate about creating a warm, welcoming “home away from home” for children and families. I love watching children begin their journey in our nursery spaces and supporting their growth, development, and curiosity as they move through the centre. I am a strong advocate for messy and sensory play, as it provides meaningful opportunities for exploration, connection, and learning.

My favourite part of early childhood education is building long-lasting, trusting relationships with children, families, and the educators I work alongside every day.

Sam Sherwell

P: (03) 5295 7447
E: norlane@jennyselc.com.au

I have been working in Early Childhood Education since 2013, and I genuinely couldn’t imagine doing anything else. I joined Jenny’s ELC at the beginning of 2024 and immediately felt at home within the community. Being part of a team that truly values children and families is incredibly important to me.

What I love most about working in early childhood education is the children themselves—being part of their journeys, watching their personalities develop, and supporting them through important milestones is truly special. I also place great value on the strong relationships built with families and believe these connections are just as important as the work we do with children each day.

I am passionate about early learning because of the profound impact the early years have on a child’s life. Creating a safe, nurturing environment where children feel seen, supported, and confident to be themselves is what motivates me and drives my love for this profession.

Millicent Backway

P: (03) 4320 0970
E: ballaratcentral@jennyselc.com.au

My name is Millicent Backway, and I have been working in Early Childhood Education for over 15 years. I am currently studying my Bachelor of Early Childhood and Primary Education and joined the Jenny’s ELC family in April 2025.

I chose this career because I wanted to make a difference in the world—one child at a time. My hope is that every positive learning experience I support will have a lasting impact, helping children to build confidence, a strong sense of self, and the curiosity to explore and contribute to their world.

I love being part of a meaningful, connected learning community where children and educators learn from one another and grow together through shared experiences.

Amy Orchard

P: (03) 5295 7491
E: grovedale@jennyselc.com.au

I began my journey in early childhood education in 2013, driven by a love for nurturing young minds and supporting their growth. Over time, I progressed into leadership roles and discovered that my passion extends beyond children’s learning to mentoring, supporting, and empowering educators.

In March 2025, I joined Jenny’s ELC and had the incredible opportunity to open the Grovedale service—a centre I am proud to call home. Each day, I am inspired by the relationships I build with children and families, celebrating milestones, encouraging curiosity, and creating meaningful learning experiences.

What I love most about my role is the balance of supporting both children and educators, witnessing growth, and knowing I am making a positive difference in the lives of families within our community.