Together as Narnia
CELEBRATING COMMUNITY ACROSS EVERY CENTRE
Port Stephens: Flourishing Faith &
Wyong Young Parents: Building Each Other Up
Waratah Young Parents: Wellbeing Toolkit
Cessnock: Cessnock Space Updates
Celebrating Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week at Narnia
FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
On Wellbeing
A couple of weeks ago, I had the privilege of attending a Connect Evening where I listened to Sarah Moore speak about Conversational Intelligence. The theme of the evening was communication and connection.
As I listened, I couldn’t help thinking how naturally this sits within our world. As early childhood professionals, relationships are at the heart of everything we do. We are intentional about being present. We create environments where children feel safe, welcomed and that they belong. We give them the space to become fully who God intended them to be. We advocate for their voice, uphold their rights and passionately protect their wellbeing.
The same principles apply just as much to the adults in the room. We immediately recognise when a child is overwhelmed or dysregulated. We understand they need safety, connection and support before they can truly learn, listen or engage. The reality is that adults are no different. When we are running on empty, carrying stress or feeling unseen, it becomes much harder to offer the calm, attentive presence we want to give to children and to one another.
Sarah explained the science in a way that was both simple and practical. Research suggests that when people feel genuinely heard respected and met with curiosity, our brains release chemicals associated with trust and connection while levels of cortisol, our stress hormone, reduce. A meaningful conversation does more than make someone feel good in the moment. It helps calm the nervous system and creates the conditions where people can think clearly, solve problems and feel safe enough to contribute.
Sound familiar? It is exactly the kind of environment we intentionally create for children every day. Perhaps the adults around us need that same care too. Not because it is a nice thing to do, but because it is part of what helps us remain well.
This is not about filling the day with conversation or stopping for long chats while children are waiting for us. Our priority will always be the children in our care. It is about recognising the right conversation at the right moment. Sometimes that is a quick check in before the day begins. Sometimes it is noticing that a colleague looks overwhelmed and quietly stepping in so they can take a moment to reset.
NICOLE
DENZIN Narnia Executive Director
Our sector has experienced enormous pressure over the past ten months, and many people are feeling the weight of it. Remembering our purpose and our why is foundational to our practice. From that place, care and connection flow naturally. Looking after one another is not separate from looking after children. It is one of the ways we make it doable.
“Looking after one another is not separate from looking after children. It is one of the ways we make it doable.”
One phrase Sarah used has stayed with me. She said that connection is contagious. I loved that thought because it is so true. One warm, respectful conversation often changes the tone of the next interaction, and then the next. Kindness has a way of spreading through a team.
Here are a few notes and reflections I took away from the evening.
1. Notice each other’s strengths
2. Be curious with purpose.
3. Allow room for uncertainty and reflection.
4. Never underestimate the little moments.
Look for what colleagues are managing well and ask what they might need, to continue succeeding.
Ask questions because you genuinely want to understand someone’s experience, not simply to fill the silence or encourage someone to share more than they are ready to.
Not every discussion needs a quick fix. Often, the greatest support we can provide is patience, understanding, and the reminder that no one is expected to have all the answers.
A genuine thank you, a word of encouragement or simply letting someone know they have been noticed can make more difference than we often realise.
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
1 THESSALONIANS 5:11
There is a beautiful verse in 1 Thessalonians 5:11 that reminds us to “encourage one another and build each other up.” I think that is exactly what this looks like in practice. When we notice one another’s strengths, when we offer support without judgement and when we take the time to connect in meaningful ways, we create a culture where everyone can flourish.
When we care well for each other, caring well for children becomes the natural overflow of a team that feels supported, valued and connected.
Be well, Team Narnia, and I hope you all enjoy Term 3.
MEET OUR NEW CESSNOCK DIRECTOR
Introducing Karl Reyes
I am excited to be joining Narnia Early Learning and becoming part of a community that shares my passion for faith, family, and the importance of the early years.
Over the past decade, I have had the privilege of leading and supporting early childhood teams in a variety of roles, most recently as Centre Director of a large service in the Hunter region. What I have learned throughout that time is that great centres are built on great relationships between children, families, educators, and the wider community.
As a husband, father, and foster parent, I understand the trust families place in us when they choose an early learning service. It is a responsibility I never take lightly. My faith guides both my personal life and leadership, and I am passionate about creating environments where children are known, valued, and encouraged to reach their Godgiven potential.
Narnia Cessnock Director
“I believe strong leadership is about serving others, building capable teams, and creating a culture where people feel supported, connected, and inspired to do their best work.”
I believe strong leadership is about serving others, building capable teams, and creating a culture where people feel supported, connected, and inspired to do their best work. I value open communication, authenticity, and a genuine sense of community, and I look forward to partnering with families and educators to continue building a centre where children can learn, grow, and flourish.
“My faith guides both my personal life and leadership, and I am passionate about creating environments where children are known, valued, and encouraged to reach their God-given potential.”
I am grateful for the opportunity to join the Narnia family and look forward to meeting you all in the coming weeks.
KARL REYES
FROM OUR ABORIGINAL CULTURAL INCLUSION AND SAFETY OFFICER
Wellbeing Through an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Perspective
When we think about wellbeing, we often think about eating well, staying active, or looking after our mental health. For many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, wellbeing includes all these things and so much more.
It is a holistic way of understanding health, grounded in connection to family, culture, identity, Country, and community. These connections foster a strong sense of belonging, purpose, and strength, recognising that an individual’s wellbeing is closely linked to the wellbeing of those around them.
A big part of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander wellbeing is found in moments of stillness on Country, meaningful connection with others, and reciprocity. It reminds us that caring for one another is a shared responsibility, and that allowing ourselves to receive care is just as important as offering care to others.
This perspective highlights that wellbeing is something we experience together. When one person is facing challenges, it can impact those around them. Equally, acts of kindness, understanding, and support can create a positive ripple effect, strengthening the wellbeing of our whole community.
Within our Narnia Early Learning communities, we can embrace this way of thinking by building meaningful relationships, listening with respect, supporting one another, and creating a strong sense of belonging for children, families, and colleagues.
By recognising, learning and respecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives on wellbeing, we strengthen our commitment to an inclusive workplace where connection, culture, and community are valued, and where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
KRISTY O’LEARY
Narnia Aboriginal Cultura Inclusion and Safety Officer
“A big part of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander wellbeing is found in moments of stillness on Country, meaningful connection with others, and reciprocity.”
Artwork by Zahlia O’Leary, Kristy’s daughter
DEVOTIONAL
A Message from our Chaplain
As we focus our attention on wellbeing in this newsletter I am reminded about our own part in this. We can lean on others for support, guidance, and wisdom, and those connections are incredibly valuable. But ultimately, lasting change comes from the choices we make each day. Choosing a helpful mindset, reaching out to GPs, professionals, or other supports when we need them, keeping ourselves active in both body and mind, and gently challenging our worries, doubts, and unhelpful thoughts are all powerful steps forward. It’s not always easy, but every small step builds strength, resilience, and growth - and the journey is absolutely worth it.
Jesus tells us not to worry. He reminds us that the birds and the flowers do not worry and that God provides for them. He informs that worry does not add a single hour to our life. (Matthew 6:25-34) He also tells us how we can do this: Through trusting God, though seeking His kingdom and righteousness as well as giving our worries to Him in prayer. Jesus said this 2000 years ago yet the message still stands strong today. We can all be reminded not to worry. Reminded to turn to God, to see beauty and glimmers in nature, in people, in the world around us and be reminded that God created all. He is in control. We can pass our worries to him.
VICKI COTTIER Narnia Staff Chaplain
Today I urge you to pray for your worries to be released and to pray thanks for anything that you see/think/feel that is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy. As we hear from Paul (Philippians 4:8-9) we need to think and focus on these things.
Whatever glimmer you see write it in the Gratitude Jar. You can do one for yourself and have one for the team. Keep the glimmers alive and share the beauty of creation with your peers.
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”
PHILIPPIANS 4:4
LOCATION UPDATES
Waratah Book Week Parade & Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea
Building community, connecting with our families and the wider school, having fun, and creating a strong sense of team are important ways we support wellbeing at Waratah.
On Friday 8th May, Waratah participated in the annual SPCC Book Week celebrations. Great Woods joined the Junior School parade, with educators and children across the service dressing as their favourite book characters.
We combined our own parade with our Mother’s Day afternoon tea, welcoming more than 60 visitors to the service and creating a wonderful festival atmosphere for the afternoon.
Special dress-up days like this help create a strong sense of belonging, connection, and community across the service.
Shared experiences support wellbeing by fostering positive relationships, encouraging creativity and self-expression, and bringing joy into the learning environment. For children, these experiences build confidence, social skills, and a sense of inclusion. For educators, they strengthen team spirit and meaningful connections with children and families. The excitement and enthusiasm throughout the day highlighted the positive impact that coming together as a community can have on everyone’s wellbeing.
AUTHOR: TESS CHAPMAN, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
KAREN GARRED
Director - Narnia Early Learning Waratah
LOCATION UPDATES
Gosford Friday Fun Days
We aim to embed staff wellbeing in flexible and spontaneous ways, as we believe it should be a natural part of daily practice rather than an added responsibility.
The staff decided together that it could be good to get fit together, so one of our staff members warmly opened up her house to us for a couple of Saturdays. Another staff member loves fitness so he was excited to run these sessions. This was a spontaneous conversation that happened and then resulted in some great team building.
We also wanted to create a regular way of supporting staff well being that was meaningful and easy to implement. That is when we came up with the idea of having a Friday Fun Day each week. To make it authentic for the team we all chatted with each other about possible ideas we could do as a team to make Friday a little different from the rest of the week (thankfully all our regular staff work on Fridays). Ideas that were shared included grazing platters in the staff room, ice cream cones for the staff to make, extra chocolate and a morning coffee run. Having these little food treats in the staff room makes the day a little different.
We have also introduced what we call Friday Fifteeners. As part of our aim to build staff morale while keeping costs low, this initiative offers a simple and meaningful way to support the team.
FIONA MATTHEWS
Director - Narnia Early Learning Gosford
Each Friday, two staff members are chosen to receive an extra 15 minutes added to their lunch break, with the Director stepping in to cover the floor as they are in the office that day. To make it fun and inclusive, a child draws out two names each week, and those selected are the lucky recipients of this extra break time. It’s a small gesture that brings a sense of appreciation, surprise, and enjoyment to the team.
AUTHOR: FIONA MATTHEWS, DIRECTOR
Gosford staff exercising together at staff member’s house
Morales boosted by the Friday Fifteeners Initiative
LOCATION UPDATES
Port Stephens Flourishing Faith & Wellbeing
One of the most valuable subjects I studied at university focused on wellbeing. During that course, I was introduced to The Lift Project, a program developed by Dr Darren Morton and Dr Jason Hinze that is based on positive psychology and research showing that when people actively engage with the strategies, they often experience reduced stress and anxiety while improving their overall wellbeing and flourishing (Bocks, 2025).
Life can be challenging but one of the encouraging things I learnt is that many of the choices we make each day can have a significant impact on our wellbeing.
Here are some highlights from The Lift Project.
SPEAK POSITIVELY
Our words have incredible power. The way we speak to others and to ourselves can shape our emotions, relationships, wellbeing, and mindset. Speaking positively doesn’t mean ignoring challenges; it means choosing words that build hope, resilience, and gratitude (Bocks, 2025).
The Bible reminds us of the impact of our words: ”Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” (Proverbs 16:24)
T. (2025, June 4). The Lift Project. The Lift Project. https://www.theliftproject.global
Why not challenge yourself to give more genuine compliments this week? Encourage a colleague, thank someone for their efforts, or simply let a person know they are appreciated. Small words of encouragement can have a lasting impact.
MOVE DYNAMICALLY
Regular movement is one of the simplest ways to support both physical and mental wellbeing. Simple activities like walking, dancing, stretching, gardening, or playing with children can make a meaningful difference (Bocks, 2025).
Interim Director - Narnia Early Learning Port Stephens
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN AN UPLIFTING ENVIRONMENT
Spending time in nature is another powerful wellbeing habit. Being outdoors can reduce stress, improve mood, increase energy, and help us feel calmer and more connected.
Scripture reminds us that our bodies are a gift from God: ”Honour God with your bodies.” (1 Corinthians 6:20)
Consider setting a team challenge, such as tracking steps or finding opportunities to move a little more throughout the day. Even a short walk can make a difference.
As educators, we have the privilege of enjoying God’s creation alongside the children. Simple moments can lift our mood and remind us of God’s creativity.
AUTHOR: KAILA WATSON, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
Bocks,
Narnia Port Stephens staff
DYAN BROWN
LOCATION UPDATES
Wyong Young Parents Building Each Other Up
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
1 THESSALONIANS 5:11
Wellbeing continues to be a focus within our Narnia Wyong community as we intentionally create a welcoming and supportive environment for educators, children, and families. Through our intentional focus on wellbeing at staff meetings, team-building games, devotions, prayers, and opportunities for reflection, we are building a culture where everyone feels valued, encouraged, and connected.
This term, staff enjoyed participating in the Bay to Bay Running Festival and embracing the fun of Pyjama Week with matching pyjamas. These shared experiences, along with our Prayer Jar and Wellbeing Wall, have helped strengthen
relationships and remind us of the importance of caring for ourselves and one another.
When asked what wellbeing looks like in our Narnia Wyong community, staff described it as a place that is “calm and flowy,” with a “welcoming atmosphere” where there is “team encouragement” and people are “caring and supportive.” Others shared that simple gestures such as random acts of kindness and affirmations help them feel appreciated, uplifted, and connected throughout the day.
Director - Narnia Young Parents Wyong
See page 20 for more resources on educator wellbeing. Our staff have completed
PRAYER:
These small but meaningful practices have a positive ripple effect throughout our community. As educators, when we feel supported and encouraged, we are better able to provide the patience, care, and emotional connection that children need to thrive. This is especially important for the children and families in our community to benefit from the stability, warmth, and sense of belonging that we are able to offer.
Thank You for the gift of our Narnia Wyong community and the opportunity to care for the children and families You have entrusted to us. Help us to continue encouraging one another through kindness, support, and prayer. May our community be a place where staff, children, and families feel welcomed, valued,and loved. Guide us to find our strength and peace in You each day. Amen.
AUTHOR: ALEXANDRA CROMPTON, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
Wyong Staff excited for the Bay to Bay Running Festival
Staff dressed for Pyjama Week
DEANNA JAMES
LOCATION UPDATES
Waratah Young Parents Wellbeing Toolkit
Supporting our wellbeing as a team isn’t always easy, we are all so different and have such a variety of ways we fill our cups. We have, over time, created a list of go to tools that support, uplift and encourage.
Making time to pray together, not only for ourselves but our children and families.
Taking time to breathe each morning and acknowledge that God has given us a brand new day with an abundance of opportunity.
Being honest with yourself and identifying when you need to tap out- it is not a weakness but a strength. We have a whole team around us to support. We are feeling overwhelmed it will filter to our colleagues and children.
Find the glimmers in each day, however small, they remind us why we do what we do.
Celebrate each otheracknowledging birthday’s, a simple thank you, enjoying an experience a colleague planned for the children.
MICHELLE PAYNE
Director - Narnia Young Parents Waratah
Going out as team to have fun, a relax after work, a fun activity.
A random question of the week to gain a tally e.g. are you a morning or evening person.
FOR OURSELVES:
• Never forget God.
• Breathe.
• Immerse yourselves in a hobby.
• Try something new.
• Disconnect- turn off the iPad.
AUTHOR: LISA THORNTON, EDUCATIONAL LEADER
Affirmations Wall at Waratah Young Parents
LOCATION UPDATES
Cessnock Cessnock Space Updates
We often talk about the environment as the “third teacher.” The way a space is designed shapes behaviour, wellbeing and the quality of the work that happens within it. Usually we apply this thinking to children’s learning spaces. Recently, we’ve had the chance to apply it to our own.
Over the past couple of weeks, a dedicated staff space has come together at Cessnock Narnia, something our service has needed.
Having our own lockers, cubby holes to place important documents and leave messages for educators who work different days, and a dedicated area for programming and documentation has made such a difference. It has created a
KARL REYES
Narnia Cessnock Director
More than that, this space has had a positive impact on staff wellbeing. Having somewhere to step away, reset for a few moments, a more private space to have our lunch breaks and complete tasks without constant interruptions helps us feel supported and valued. It may seem like a small thing but it’s already made a big difference to our team.
We are incredibly grateful to be a part of the greater Narnia, which has provided the resources, in people power and equipment, to make this possible.
“Having
somewhere to step away, reset for a few moments, a more private space to have our lunch breaks and complete tasks without constant interruptions helps us feel supported and valued.”
AUTHOR: AMANDA BOEHME, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
Cessnock staff area
Key Dates
UPCOMING DATES
Term 3
5TH – 12TH JULY
21ST JULY
3RD – 9TH AUGUST
4TH AUGUST
15TH-23RD AUGUST
2ND SEPTEMBER
6TH SEPTEMBER
10TH SEPTEMBER
25TH SEPTEMBER
NAIDOC Week
Term 3 Begins
Early Learning Matters Week
National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day
National Science Week
Early Childhood Educators’ Day
Father’s Day
R U OK? Day
Last Day of School Term
Know Someone?
We have a number of positions available across our centres. Maybe you know someone who is looking to work in a supportive, Christian environment.
Casual, Cert III & Diploma Early Childhood Educators ALL LOCATIONS
Part-Time Early Childhood Teacher
NARNIA PORT STEPHENS
Diploma Early Childhood Educator
NARNIA WARATAH
Trainee Early Childhood Educator
NARNIA GOSFORD
All information is available on our website: www.spcc.nsw.edu.au/schools/early-learning/narnia/ our-story/employment
Our vision is to create a place where the fun is endless, the laughter is infectious, the interactions are rich, the love is genuine, the world is big, creativity flourishes and Jesus is real.