SOEL draws perspective and insight from many different disciplines, philosophers and pedagogy, from Australia and overseas. Our philosophy and practice is thus informed by that of the Municipal Schools of Reggio Emilia, Rudolf Steiner, Maria Montessori, and the International Baccalaureate, as well as our own observations and interactions.
A family-run business established in 1974
We pride ourselves on understanding the needs of our community and providing high-quality education and care to children and their family groups.
Our PhilosophyOur Logo
Our logo was developed using the research developed by one child Ruby, 3.6 years, over a number of months. Following her emerging interest in horses, Ruby spent time researching at the library. Ruby’s subsequent drawings demonstrate the benefits of research and artistic process, giving her the ability to express her understanding, with the Studio Coordinators encouragement and support. The four horses illustrate Ruby’s growing knowledge of a horse’s movement, bone structure and muscles. Through these images Ruby shows her emerging understanding and shares her learning with her peers.
Our Values
SOEL’s Founder
BERNADETTE GIAMBAZI
SOEL was established in 1974 by our mother Bernadette Giambazi who received an AM in 2000 for her services to the Australian Early Childhood sector.
Our Directors
Genevieve Giambazi
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Genevieve Giambazi completed a degree in Visual Arts (Curtin University) in 1999, a degree in Graphic Design (Sydney Graphics College) in 2002 and a Certificate III in Children’s Services in 2014.
As Creative Director, Gen supports educators to create environments that inspire wonder and awe. Gen oversees the Studio programme, opening pathways for children’s investigations, mindsets for respecting children’s voices and attitudes that allow the children to be who they are, to imagine and to have fun.
Louise Thomson
CULINARY DIRECTOR
Louise Thomson completed a Diploma of Childcare in 1985 and has worked as a Team Leader and Centre Director both in Australia and overseas. Louise was involved in the accreditation process as one of the original validators from the National Accreditation Council.
Louise has been a Director of the Schools of Early Learning since 1989. Balancing considerations of the bigger picture with the individual needs of families and staff, Louise brings her knowledge, experience and attention to detail to the daily operations of Schools of Early Learning.
Sarah Giambazi
EDUCATION DIRECTOR
Sarah Giambazi completed a Diploma of Childcare in 1990 and has worked in centres both overseas and in Australia. In 2000 she became a validator for the National Accreditation Council and accredited services all around Australia.
Sarah has been a Director at the Schools of Early Learning since 1997. Sarah’s passion and energy bring innovation and flexibility to team meetings, inspiring the educational programmes that support the children’s being, belonging and becoming.
IN THE MEDIA
Dr Brett Thomson
COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR
Brett Thomson completed a PhD in Agricultural Science from the University of Western Australia in 1987 and worked for many years as a Research Scientist and business manager in Australia and overseas.
Brett’s corporate business experience contributes clarity and structure to the Schools of Early Learning in his role as Commercial Director, a position he has held since 2010.
IN THE MEDIA
Our Senior Management Team
Myra Taylor
HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER
Myra is the Human Resources Manager for SOEL. She completed her Bachelor of Commerce at Curtin University majoring in Human Resources and Industrial Relations in 2010.
Myra joined SOEL in 2014 and has been providing professional HR advice through guiding, coaching, mentoring and supporting Managers and staff alike. Myra continues to keep her personal development of the HR/IR industry up-to-date through training workshops, publications and online study.
David Healy
BUSINESS PROCESS MANAGER
David is the Business Process Manager for SOEL, bringing more than 20 years of childcare experience to the role. Working closely alongside the other members of the Senior Management Team and the Directors, David seeks to implement simple and clear solutions for organisational wide questions.
“I truly believe that what we provide for the children in our care, and their families, is absolutely World Class.”
Louise de Boer
EDUCATION MANAGER
“I have been with SOEL for eight years as a Manager across several of our centres and more recently as a part of the Pedagogical and Training Team. I’ve previously worked in a variety of school settings as an Early Childhood classroom teacher and in leadership positions.
“The move to SOEL was as an easy decision, as my belief is that all children can be creative thinkers and problem solvers when we plan environments rich with possibilities and when their ideas are respected and valued. I work closely with Managers to ensure educational leadership is embedded in the way SOEL Centres plan and operate. I support educators across all age groups to value the opportunities they provide and to share the delight in the discoveries children make.”
