First Grammar Merrylands

Our centre chef prepares and cooks nutritious meals daily, catering to the unique dietary requirements of every child. We believe that by encouraging active participation (such as growing their own fruit and vegetables, preparing, and finally cooking!) children learn to appreciate and understand the importance of healthy eating across a wide variety of food.

Our centre offers seasonal whole food-based menus – created to delight the fussiest eaters.

Hi my name is Farah and I am the Centre Manager at First Grammar Merrylands. I started working in early learning in 2015. I joined the team at First Grammar Merrylands in 2020. I hold a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education and Care (Birth - 5).

Working in early education has been a fulfilling and enriching experience for me. What I particularly love about working in early education is witnessing children's incredible growth and progress. This career allows me to foster a nurturing and inclusive environment where children feel safe, supported, and encouraged to explore, ask questions, and express themselves. Building strong relationships with children and their families is also something I cherish, as it allows me to collaborate with parents and caregivers in supporting their children's holistic development. 

I have learned so much about children and their development during my early childhood education and care career. One of the most important lessons is that each child is unique and has their own individual strengths, interests, and learning styles. This understanding has guided my teaching style to be adaptable and responsive to the needs of each child. 

I have also learned that children learn best through hands-on experiences and play. As a result, my teaching style emphasises creating a stimulating and interactive learning environment that encourages exploration, discovery, and active participation. I also value the importance of building strong relationships with children. Positive relationships foster a sense of security and trust, enabling children to feel comfortable taking risks, expressing themselves, and engaging in meaningful learning experiences. 

I prioritise connecting with each child, actively listening to their thoughts and ideas, and valuing their contributions. Recognising and celebrating the diversity of children's backgrounds, experiences, and abilities is crucial in promoting a sense of belonging and fostering a positive self-identity. This understanding guides my teaching style to incorporate diverse perspectives, materials, and experiences, ensuring that every child feels valued and respected. 

Each member of our First Grammar Merrylands team holds relevant qualifications in early childhood education, ensuring they have the knowledge and skills necessary to create a nurturing and stimulating environment for children. They are committed to staying updated with the latest research and best practices in early childhood education to offer the most effective and enriching experiences for the children under their care. They come from diverse cultural backgrounds, bringing a rich tapestry of experiences, languages, and perspectives into their teaching practices. They genuinely care about the well-being, growth, and development of each child in their care. 

Supporting families is an essential aspect of our approach as early childhood educators. We understand that families play a crucial role in a child's development, and building a strong relationship with them is vital. Here are a few ways we show support and foster good relationships with families: 

1. Open and Transparent Communication: We provide regular updates on their child's progress, daily activities, and any concerns or achievements. We also encourage families to communicate with us, ensuring that we address any questions or concerns promptly. 

2. Welcoming and Inclusive Environment: We encourage their active involvement in their child's learning journey. We organise family events, workshops, and parent-teacher meetings that allow for meaningful interactions and collaboration. 

3. Respect for Diversity: We respect and celebrate our families' diverse backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs. We incorporate cultural diversity into our curriculum, activities, and celebrations, creating a sense of belonging for all families. 

4. Supportive Partnerships: We value families’ input and involve them in decision-making processes. We also provide resources, guidance, and support to help families navigate parenting challenges and access community services if needed. 5. Individualized Approaches: We take the time to understand and respect families’ individual needs and circumstances, adapting our approach to meet those needs effectively.