We’re thrilled to welcome the lovely Debbie Holz as Centre Manager at Bardia while Nicole Downey is on parental leave. Debbie joins Team Bardia from our Gledswood Hills service. With Debbie’s wealth of experience as a Centre Manager, we’re very lucky to have her at the helm!
Why early learning?
From a young age, I always knew I wanted to work with children. I grew up helping out in my grandparents’ corner shop, started working early, and would constantly play ‘school’ with my cousins. I was always the teacher! Babysitting came naturally, and by 18, I was studying at TAFE. I started working in early childhood at 20, and I’ve never looked back. Watching children grow, learn, and become their own little people is what lights me up—and over time, I’ve realised how deeply connected this work is to supporting families too.
What is the most challenging part of your role?
It depends on the day—and the role—but consistently, it’s about balancing everyone’s expectations. Families, children, staff... everyone has needs, and not all of them can always be met within the policies and regulations we work under. Safety and wellbeing for all is our top priority, but making those decisions daily can be challenging.
How has early learning changed since you started out?
When I first began in 2000, there were no regulations or Early Years Learning Framework—we filled in program books with little boxes! Families paid their fees by slipping envelopes of money into a cash box at the front desk! The children were outside running under the hose in nappies, exploring everything. A lot has changed, and technology plays a much bigger role now than it did before. It brings new challenges for Educators and parents.
The most rewarding moment in your career so far?
Honestly? Every day brings something rewarding. A few years back, I was honestly asking myself if I still wanted to be working in the sector. I took a role working on the floor at Gledswood Hills, and working directly with children again reminded me why I do what I do. It completely reignited my passion. And now at Bardia, I’ve loved connecting with the families and building a new kind of community.
What advice do you have for families?
A happy, easygoing parent = a happy child. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself or your child—trust your instincts. There’s no one-size-fits-all.
Also, please take advice from Educators seriously. When we offer advice, it's coming from a place of experience, and from a sincere desire to help families and children.
And most of all, spend real quality time with your children. Turn off the TV and iPads. Take a break. Your kids will remember how you made them feel, not how many activities they did.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I’ll never leave this sector. I love what I do. In 10 years’ time my own children won’t be babies anymore—who knows, maybe I’ll be a Gia Gia! (or grandma, in Greek)