LAURA Lashbrook is a woman on a mission.
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Mrs Lashbrook has been finding her feet as the Leeton Preschool’s new director, as well as juggling being a mum of two.
It’s a juggling act she says has its challenges, but one she’s taking in her stride.
Prior to accepting the position at the preschool, Mrs Lashbrook was the director of the Goodstart Early Learning Centre in Griffith, a position she held for 10 years.
Travelling over each day from Leeton, Mrs Lashbrook was now happy to have a position which is much closer to home.
“It’s definitely different because that was long day care and this is preschool, but I’m really enjoying it,” she said.
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“I’m a local and I live in this community. I did my internship here 10 years ago, so when the opportunity came up, I thought I would apply.
“I was ready for a different challenge and I love it here. The families are beautiful.”
The Leeton Preschool is currently sitting at full capacity, with 60 children attending each day.
Current funding from the state government has allowed the facility to keep its fees as low as possible.
Mrs Lashbrook would like to see further funding become available for the younger three-year-old age bracket.
She believes the education provided at preschools sets a child up for their future learning.
“We’re full, we would definitely love to have more positions available for the three-year-olds,” she said.
“That’s something I’m sure all preschools would be wanting.”
The role of director encompasses a range of different tasks, so not only does Mrs Lashbrook manage the team and service, but also the business side of the preschool.
The preschool has also has a parent committee, which oversees the running of the centre.
“I go to them with any needs I might have … they’ve been really great,” she said.
Preschools have been a fixture of early learning for many years and Mrs Lashbrook believes nothing can replace them. “They are just so important,” she said.
“You couldn’t not have them. In the dream world every child out there would have a place at an early learning centre like a preschool before they go to school.”