– 2015 – ANNUAL REPORT 1 Contents

IS IT CREATIVITY? IS IT COURAGE? 1. Big Fat Smile 2. Chairman & IS IT UNRELENTING OPTIMISM? MD/CEO’s Report IS IT NEW THINKING BASED ON 3. Governance & GROUND-BREAKING RESEARCH? Leadership 4. Highlights 2015 OR IS IT GREAT PEOPLE DOING 5. Dollars & Cents GREATWhat THINGS makes EVERYDAY? a 6. Leaders in Quality 7. International leader? Influence 8. Community Engagement 9. Our People 10. Leaders in Learning 11. Leaders in Fun AT BIG FAT SMILE WE THINK 12. Creative Leaders IT’S A BIT OF ALL THESE THINGS. 13. Independent Family Survey WE’VE BEEN RECOGNISED FOR OUR 14. Centres SERVICE QUALITY, OUR PRACTICES 15. Partners AND OUR INTERNATIONAL PROGRAM. WE PUSH OURSELVES TO MAKE EARLY LEARNING IN AUSTRALIA BEST PRACTICE FOR THE WORLD. 3

Established for social purpose in 1981, Big Fat Smile is the region’s largest provider of services for children and families. The Company plays an important part in the lives of thousands of children and families through a network of 27 Community Preschools, 15 Fun Clubs and a portfolio of community and inclusion programs across Australia. Who are Big Fat Smile’s work is crucial in shaping life trajectories big fat smile exists for for children, social outcomes for families, and economic CHILDREN and FAMILIES. prosperity for communities and the nation. we? Big Fat Smile’s Vision is for a braver, brighter, more creative world. It’s our OUR VISION is bold and aspirational. It’s what we seek for the reason for being. world. OUR VALUES express our deep conviction about the things The Company engages highly qualified, What sets us passionate educators so that every child that matter. OUR BELIEFS make clear who we are and how we see has the best start to life and learning. ourselves. OUR PURPOSE is explicit. We are here to lead, influence Quality is central to everything the and deliver. OUR STRATEGIC GOALS give focus at the highest level apart? Company does, with 100% of centres assessed in 2014 and 2015 achieving the about how we will achieve our Purpose. coveted ‘exceeding’ rating under the demanding National Quality Standard. In combination, these elements comprise our Strategic Framework, expressed simply below: The Company maintains value-adding creative, educational, international and community partnerships, and an extensive research program to inform professional What we seek practice and the development of learning programs. Across the network of centres VISION for the world. a braver, brighter, new technologies like Kinderloop ensure that parents, carers and family members can m o re cre a tive worl d . connect and participate in each child’s learning. For employees, the Company delivers sector-leading benefits, flexible work options, The things for Imagination. Courage. Integrity. Respect. career paths and a rich program of professional development including international VALUES which we stand. exchange opportunities. Local educators are supported by Reggio-inspired artists, musicians, environmentalists What we think We are creative. We are fun. We are diverse. BELIEFS about ourselves. and adventurers to extend and enhance every child’s learning experience. We are leaders. We are learners. For families, the Company delivers world-class early education and care, and we advocate for children and families in need. PURPOSE What we do, for To be Australia’s best-run & most respected whom & why. provider of programs & services to support the We also offer the little extras, like meals in long day care, nappies, sunscreen, breakfast and afternoon tea in fun clubs, cool studio programs in art and music, and much more. well-being of kids, families & the community.

STRATEGIC (2013-16) 1. Strengthen 2. Invest in 3. Enrich Our Big Fat Smile is the place where people want How we achieve Our Business Our People Communities GOALS our Purpose. to work, and it’s where thousands oF children learn and grow every day. it’s a magical place. Our annual plans flows from this Framework, copies of which are available on request via [email protected]. 4 5

chairman & MD/CEO’s REPORT 2015 was an important year in which Big Fat Smile consolidated residential program for 75 special educators in November. its national quality leadership in the early education and school Delivered in partnership with the University of Wollongong and age care markets. For the second consecutive year, Big Fat Smile the China Association for Persons with Psychiatric Disability and achieved a 100% success rate in the independently conducted quality their Relatives, the program offered participants detailed assessments. instruction on leading visual systems and strategies to support All assessed centres were rated as ‘exceeding’ the National Quality children with Autism. Standard. The Board and executive team are very pleased with the We attended Bravissimo in October, the annual celebration of employee outcome, which is more than three times that of the 28% national average service and achievement. Long-serving and high-achieving employees were for centres. The ratings offer strong evidence that the Company’s acknowledged in the presence of their peers and the Company leadership. long-term Quality Strategy is delivering important and measurable results These employees are a credit to the company, contributing directly to the for children and families. deep community trust in the Big Fat Smile brand, its programs and The operating result for 2015 was a healthy $510k surplus. The net asset its people. position improved, cashflow remained healthy and 89% of families expressed We also thanked long-serving non-executive directors Glenda Pearce and satisfaction with Company services. The Employee Engagement Jenny Dixon for their energy, commitment and long service to the Board – Index of 85% contributed strongly to business performance, family Glenda for 15 years and Jenny for 11 years (10 years as Board Chair). Both satisfaction and our sector leading staff retention rate of 88% (ten- have been central in shaping the Company’s success. year average of 90%). The Board conducted a strategic planning day in the first half of the year, Big Fat Smile opened a state-of-the-art early childhood centre in October at following lead-in sessions with the executive group. The 2016 edition of the Manooka Valley and successfully completed the first full year of operation at plan maintains the key themes of quality and incremental growth, with a Castle Hill Community Preschool. Wollondilly Mobile Preschool operations major new focus on technology, both for improved early learning outcomes were reorganised mid-year to facilitate enrolments at both Wilton and a new and business performance. site in Oran Park Town. We are incredibly proud of the company’s Building on the corporate branding successes of recent years, the company launched a new brand for the school age market in 2015. Replacing achievements and market leadership again skoolzout, Fun Club gained positive early support from kids, families and staff. Fun Club enrolments increased steadily throughout the year, attesting to in 2015. the ‘on-brand’ creative programming of local teams. This success flows directly from the commitment Disappointingly, we learned of the withdrawal of Australian Government and hard work of teams across the Company, funding for the Company’s community programs in the 2518 and 2502 and we thank every employee for areas. MPs Sharon Bird and Ryan Park advocated for funding to be their part in this success. restored and this was achieved. The advocacy of the MPs and the community is appreciated and ensures that we continue to make an important difference for children and families Bill Feld in these communities. MD/CEO Big Fat Smile hosted visitors from Beijing and Yangzhou during the year, extending ties established in 2014. In Beijing, Big Fat Smile initiated a special four-day The Best leadership

David Campbell Chairman

STARTS WITH THOUGHT 6 7 governance & leadership The Board An elected Board of Directors governs Big Fat Smile. It sets Leaver (General Counsel and General Manager, Policy & strategic direction for the Company, ensures an effective Programs) was appointed as Company Secretary. The Board framework for the management of risk, and oversees acknowledged with thanks the prior service of Liz Depers in executive and business performance. both roles.

Long-serving directors Jenny Dixon and Glenda Pearce During the year, the Board finalised new charters for stepped down at the Annual General Meeting as part of the committees dealing with: Audit, Risk & Compliance; scheduled Board renewal process. Helen Mitrofanis also Remuneration; and Governance & Nominations. The Board stepped down to meet other professional commitments. Ken also revised the Strategic Plan, including a technology Whitton, Tony Deliseo and Chris Stolk were appointed to the strategy to facilitate improved child learning outcomes and Board in 2015. business performance.

After the Annual General Meeting, David Campbell In November, the Board noted the 10 years of service David Campbell Louise Meyrick Bill Feld Harold Cosier was elected as Board Chair, Chair of the Remuneration completed by MD/CEO Bill Feld and acknowledged his strong M Mgt, FAICD M Comm, M. Dispute Resol, BA, MBA, GAICD Dip Teach Committee and Chair of the Governance & Nominations executive leadership of the Company over that time. Board Chair Dip Ed Managing Director Non Executive Director of Big Board Deputy Chair Committee. Louise Meyrick was elected as Deputy Board Non Executive Director of Big Executive Director of Big Fat Fat Smile Group Ltd. since 2005 Chair and Chair of the Audit, Risk & Compliance Committee. Consistent with best governance practice, the Board Fat Smile Group Ltd. since 2014 Non Executive Director of Big Smile Group Ltd. since 2011 Member, Audit, Risk & commenced a process of evaluation in December. Chair, Remuneration Fat Smile Group Ltd. since 2014 Member, Governance & Compliance Committee Early in the year, Jacinta Wallace (Office of the CEO) was Committee Chair, Audit, Risk & Compliance Nominations Committee NSW Public School Principal Chair, Governance & Committee CEO, Big Fat Smile Group Ltd. appointed as Executive Officer to the Board and Louise Nominations Committee Member, Remuneration Retired Member of Parliament Committee Senior Consultant, Policy & The Executive Leadership Team Planning Specialist Non Executive Directors Sophie Ray and Vanessa Bourne joined the Board early in 2016.

Bill Feld Kath Coroneos Cinzia Immuni Louise Leaver Ken Whitton Tony Deliseo Chris Stolk MBA, GAICD B Comm, M Comm B Comm, M App.Sc (Psych of LLB. (Hons), B.Sc (Psyc), Grad MBA, Grad Dip (Fin Plan), B.Sc (Physics), Cert IV TAE MBA, GAICD Coaching), Cert IV Training & Dip (Legal Practice), Grad Dip B Commerce BCom CPA GAICD Chief Executive Officer General Manager, People Non Executive Director of Big Assessment (Applied Corp. Gov.) Chair, Executive Leadership & Operations Non Executive Director of Big Fat Smile Group Ltd. since 2015 Non Executive Director of Big Team Member, Executive Leadership General Manager, Strategy General Manager, Policy & Fat Smile Group Ltd. since 2015 Member, Audit, Risk & Fat Smile Group Ltd. since 2015 Team & Development Programs and General Counsel Member, Governance & Compliance Committee Member, Audit, Risk & Member, Executive Leadership Member, Executive Leadership Nominations Committee Asia Pacific CEO, Software Compliance Committee Team Team General Manager, Industry Group Chief Financial Officer, Health Superannuation Fund Insurance Industry 8 9

Fairy Meadow Fun Club achieves ‘exceeding’ Yangzhou Ladder january rating under the National Quality Standard. july Education Group teachers hosted by Big Fat Smile for Australian visit. Bellambi Point and Albion Park Fun Clubs achieve Highlights ‘exceeding’ ratings under the National Quality February Standard. Robertson and Wollongong City Big Fat Smile supports International Reggio Emilia Community Preschools achieve Conference in Melbourne. ‘exceeding’ ratings under the National Quality Standard. 2015 Balarang Fun Club achieves august ‘exceeding’ rating under the National Quality Standard. The Gallery @ Big Fat Smile Exhibition ‘Under the Lace Arches’ opens. Wollongong East and Austinmer Fun Clubs achieve ma rch ‘exceeding’ ratings under the National Quality Standard. Second annual Fun Club ‘The Preschool Chef’ book released. september Olympix conducted. Minister Scott Morrison visits Bingara Bingara Gorge Community Preschool achieves ‘exceeding’ Gorge Community Preschool. rating under the National Quality Standard. The Gallery @ Big Fat Smile Exhibition Bingara Gorge Fun Club achieves ‘exceeding’ rating under the ‘3 Adrift’ opens. National Quality Standard. Big Fat Smile HQ supports Spring into Corrimal festival. Big Fat Smile as foundation partner co-hosts inaugural Early Start Conference at the University of Wollongong. The Gallery @ Big Fat Smile Exhibition ‘Spring Downtown’ opens.

New Mobile Community Preschool service Barrack Heights Community opens at Oran Park. april Preschool achieves ‘exceeding’ Wollongong City and Bulli Fun Clubs achieve october rating under the National.Quality ‘exceeding’ ratings under the National Quality Standard. Standard. Record turn-out at Corrimal and Bellambi Point Community Preschools achieve ‘exceeding’ ratings under the National Quality Lord Mayor’s Picnic Standard. in the Park for 2016 The Gallery @ Big Fat Smile Exhibition ‘The Falling School Starters, Garden’ opens. coordinated by Big Fat Smile. Little Village and Woronora Heights The Gallery @ Big Fat may Community Preschools achieve Smile Exhibition ’10 ‘exceeding’ ratings under the National Steps Too Far’ opens. Quality Standard. Senior Chinese health and disability officials New Big Fat Smile hosted by Big Fat Smile for Australian visit. Community Preschool The Gallery @ Big Fat Smile Exhibition ‘Birds, november opens at Manooka Valley Noah and Ping Pong Dandies’ opens. 89% result achieved in 2015 Big Fat Smile Customer Satisfaction Survey. Artspace Show 2015 opens. Big Fat Smile co-ordinated training conducted in Beijing for Picton Community Preschool achieves ‘exceeding’ 75 special educators and officials. june rating under the National Quality Standard. Regional launch of the new ‘Fun Kenny Street Community Preschool Club’ brand. awarded first ‘Little Scientist House’ december Flinders Fun Club achieves accreditation in Australia. ‘exceeding’ rating under the Partnership with the Illawarra Academy of Sport begins. National Quality Standard. Partnership with the German-Australian Chamber 85% result achieved in Employee Engagement Survey. of Commerce begins. The Gallery @ Big Fat Smile Exhibition ‘Big Fat Smile The Gallery @ Big Fat Smile Exhibition ‘Shadowland’ opens. Artist’s Show’ opens. 10 11

Revenue. client Expenses. 87% 71% salaries 12% 1% 23% children’s services partnerships other & grants 3% admin

3% other

Investment. in community $510k surplus engagement Not-for-profit enterprises don’t have shareholders, in so every cent is returned to the business for the in excursions % benefit of the kids. assets % Dollars cents % 15.12 8.96 5.76

& 12 13

Table: THE CENTRES THAT WERE INDEPENDENTLY ASSESSED leaders IN 2015 AGAINST THE NATIONAL QUALITY STANDARD

Early Childhood Centres Fun Clubs Before School, After School (Ages up to 5 years) and School Holiday (Ages 5-12 Years)

Barrack Heights Albion Park For the second consecutive Bellambi Point Austinmer year, Big Fat Smile is Australia’s Bingara Gorge Bellambi Point Corrimal Balarang top quality performer in early Little Village at Miller Bulli education andIN schoolQUALITY age care. Picton Fairy Meadow Robertson Flinders Wollongong City Wollongong City Woronora Heights Wollongong East

Investment in quality is important to us, ensuring the best possible staffing ratios, teacher qualifications, play environments, learning programs and creative extension for children. It’s reflected in our performance and ranking in the national market. Honour Roll: EXCEEDING ON ALL 58 ELEMENTS Introduced as law in 2012, COMPARISON OF CUMULATIVE EXCEEDING RATINGS Table: the 58-element National Port Kembla Community Preschool FOR AUSTRALIA, NSW AND BIG FAT SMILE Quality Standard is used Bulli Community Preschool to rate the 15,000 early Stewart St Community Preschool learning, school age and 90.63% Western Suburbs Community Preschool 100% family day care centres across the country. Bundanoon District Community Preschool

75% In a roll call of the Wollongong City Community Preschool ‘BEST OF THE BEST’ Robertson Community Preschool 50% since the inception of the Corrimal Community Preschool 28% National Quality Standard, Bellambi Point Community Preschool the following centres have 22% Picton Community Preschool 25% all achieved ‘exceeding’ ratings across all quality Barrack Heights Community Preschool 0% areas and on every one of West Wollongong Fun Club the 58 elements: Balarang Fun Club EXCEEDING Australia Source: Based on information from NQF Snapshot up to NSW November 2015 and current Big Fat Smile Assessment and Big Fat Smile Rating results. 14 15 Influence INTERNATIONAL Visit to Australia by Visit to Australia by Yangzhou Ladder Education Group Chinese Health

Big Fat Smile hosted five teachers from Yangzhou Ladder and Disability Education Group in July/August. Organised as part of the Big Fat Smile Cultural Exchange, the teachers lived and worked OFFicials locally, gaining first-hand insights into Western teaching methods and programs. Big Fat Smile hosted four senior health and disability officials The visitors from Yangzhou were Moon City Kindergarten from Beijing in May. The visit followed an invitation from Director Wang Juan (June), Ming Xing Kindergarten Director Big Fat Smile for the officials to learn more about early Cao Hongyan (Cara), Mei Qi Kindergarten Director Liu Yan intervention practices in Australia for children with Autism. (Linda), Mei Qi Kindergarten Teacher Zhang Bingjian (Jine) The visitors were Chairman Wen Hong and Dr Guo Dehua and Mei Qi Kindergarten Sports Teacher/Martial Artist Yang from the China Association for Persons with Psychiatric Shuo (Young). The officials contributed sessions at the University of Disability and their Relatives (CAPPDR), and Drs Li Er Zen and Wollongong Autism Conference, co-sponsored by Big Fat The teachers spent time at their Bingara Gorge, Woronora Guan Hongyang from the Capital Institute of Pediatrics (CIP). Smile (organised by Professor Marc de Rosnay and Assoc. Heights and Western Suburbs sister-schools, and at other Both organisations seek to advance the health and welfare of Professor Mitch Byrne). The visitors appreciated the centres across the Big Fat Smile network. The teachers also people with Autism and their families in China. opportunity to learn about early intervention theory and participated in local exhibitions, professional symposia, Over the two-week visit, the officials spent time in Big Fat practice in Australia, and the opportunity to connect with cultural events and celebrations, each facilitating greater Smile preschools, and in schools and support classes across researchers, practitioners and educational leaders from understanding of early years education and culture in the region. CIP’s Dr Li was interviewed by the WIN News team across Australia. Australia. and featured in local news coverage of the visit. ABC Radio interviewed Director Liu Yan at the beginning of the visit and the Cultural Exchange featured prominently across local media. Professional training for 75 special Ladder Group Chairman Zhang Zhihong (James) and Ladder education teachers and officials Group CEO Li Yi Wen (Helen) also joined the teachers in took place in Beijing over four days Australia, meeting with senior staff at Big Fat Smile HQ, the ProFessional in late November. Sponsored by the University of Wollongong and TAFE Illawarra Institute. China Association for Persons with At the closing event for the teacher exchange, Big Fat Smile Training in Beijing Psychiatric Disability and their Relatives MD/CEO Bill Feld said, (CAPPDR) and coordinated by Big Fat Smile’s Director, International, Lan “The teachers are Zhang, the training centred on visual outstanding represent- support systems and strategies for atives, both For Yangzhou children with Autism. City and Ladder Education UOW Associate Professors Rose Dixon and Mitch Byrne delivered sessions on Group. They’ve made visual theory, while Lan Zhang delivered a lasting impression, all practical sessions. All sessions were Chairman Zhang and CEO Li delivered in English and Mandarin, and were evaluated highly by the teachers can be very proud oF their and officials. The training set the wonderFul ambassadors.” scene for further training and research collaborations between CAPPDR, its member network, Big Fat Smile and the University of Wollongong. 16 17

ChinaHELLO 18 19

community Engagement include

Koonawarra Children take Flight ME

Koonawarra Community Preschool children made a special visit to the Historical Airport Restoration Society (HARS) site at Albion Park Rail in August. The children enjoyed a unique learning experience and delighted in viewing up-close the huge, 192-tonne QANTAS plane now permanently stationed at the site.

Early Years Student Scholarships Big Fat Smile continued its Early Years scholarship program for final year students at Include Me is the equity arm of Big Fat Smile, the University of Wollongong and TAFE Illawarra Institute. Scholarship winners were Rachel Verdon from TAFE Illawarra Wollongong Campus, Carley Robinson from delivering programs that embed inclusive TAFE Illawarra Shellharbour Campus, and Ashleigh Goodwin and Claire Lane from the University of Wollongong, all of whom received financial assistance in meeting and socially just practices. The programs educational expenses. are designed and delivered within a socially responsible framework to Spring into Corrimal meet the needs and aspirations of local communities. The Gallery @ Big Fat Smile and Artspace Studio worked with Corrimal Community Preschool in the lead-up to 2015 Spring into Corrimal, an annual creative festival Include Me removes barriers for children organised by the Corrimal Business Chamber. This year a special exhibition was held to coincide with the festival day (Sunday 13 who have additional needs by providing targeted September). The ‘Spring Down Town’ exhibition was curated by Jennine Primmer inclusion support to early childhood and care services. and developed by Big Fat Smile Artists in Residence; Jill Talbot, Nina Young and Angela Forrest. The preschoolers’ works were launched at a special event for Include Me delivers early intervention programs to families on 10 September 2015. families and educators to ensure children have the best possible start to life. Key initiatives delivered in Walk and Talk at Castle Hill partnership with the Australian Government, NSW ‘Walk and Talk at Castle Hill’ is a weekly initiative at Castle Hill Community Preschool Government and Community Organisations are that facilitates easy communication with families and builds a sense of community. Family and friends met weekly on the walk to discuss topical issues and catch up funded staffing support, supported playgroups, with friends. The weekly ‘Walk and Talk’ builds relationships and has gained great support from families. parenting workshops, transition to school events and capacity building sessions. 20 21

community Engagement Paint the Gong REaD

Big Fat Smile participated in the Paint the Gong REaD community event. The event encourages the whole community to read, talk, sing and rhyme with children from birth. This year’s Annual Reading Day took place on 20 August at Warrawong Plaza, with the theme ‘Books light up our world’. Big Fat Smile led creative activities for Nature Quest at Bundanoon children alongside the four pop-up reading tents at the shopping centre.

Children have a profound respect and love for the natural environment at Bundanoon District Community Preschool. This began when the children were introduced to the Nature Quest Program. Preschool Director Deni developed the program after being trained in the Forest School concept in Leicestershire UK, and later in Auckland NZ. NAIDOC Week Connection at Bundanoon Run on a site adjoining the preschool, the natural environment is used to teach This year Bundanoon District Community Preschool celebrated NAIDOC week with in a holistic manner. Delivered with a sense of fun, it assists in teaching children a visit from Aboriginal Elder Aunty Wendy Lotter. Aunty Wendy joined the children mathematical and scientific concepts, building language and literacy, and at Nature Quest and talked to them about bush tucker and natural medicine. The promoting high-order thinking. Families participate actively in campfire sessions, children learnt how to use ochre paints and charcoal for drawings and how to create tree climbing, games, exploring, risk-taking and nature investigation. shelter from sticks and bark. Urban Revival at Bingara Gorge Iconic contemporary artists like Banksy are bringing graffiti, or aerosol art, into the Woronora Heights Sutherland Fun Run mainstream. Street art has been incorporated into many Fun Club programs over the last 18 months, beginning at Bingara Gorge. On 19 July Woronora Heights Community Preschool staff and families came together for the annual “Sutherland to Surf Fun Run” from Sutherland to Wanda. One of the four elements of ‘hip hop’, Graffiti is a way for children to connect with Woronora Heights took the opportunity to support preschooler Cleo, who has the community and make sense of the world around them. Year Five student Leila, Cystic Fibrosis. Educators Nat, Ange and Cassie, along with parents Adam and when asked why she enjoys graffiti as opposed to traditional art forms said, “I can Gwen, braved the 11km course. The group raised over $5000 for Cystic Fibrosis express myself more, everything is bigger and brighter and faster.” research. The experience formed bonds with families in a fun way outside of the The children’s graffiti-inspired works are showcased proudly at Bingara Gorge Fun preschool, while also raising awareness and funds for Cystic Fibrosis. Club. Other Fun Clubs are also embracing urban street culture, with the addition of hip hop dance classes in their holiday programs. The Lord Mayor’s Picnic in the Park Wonderwalls Project for 2016 School Starters The ‘Wonderwall’ street art festival showcased the finer qualities of graffiti as an art form. It promoted to children the idea that they are not limited to expression The Illawarra Transition to School Program engages prior-to-school services, or connection through pencils, brushes and paper alone. These ideas of being, primary schools and early intervention agencies so that young children can belonging and becoming are central to the National Early Years and My Time, Our experience a positive transition into kindergarten. Place Frameworks. The annual ‘Transition to School Picnic’ is a major event in the program calendar, This year, Big Fat Smile worked with Simon Grant to secure the east exterior wall this year enjoyed by 138 school starters and their families in McCabe Park, of Wollongong City Community Preschool for a large-scale mural artwork. The Wollongong on 25 October. Organised by Big Fat Smile with Wollongong City preschool was matched to local artist Bafcat. The street art mural was created over Council, the children enjoyed circus workshops, junior football and Artspace two days during the Festival and Bafcat described his artwork as “my weird animal sessions with textured materials. The giveaways included Billy Backpack erasers, mural” for Big Fat Smile. stickers, pencils and fridge magnets. Parents had the opportunity to chat with educators about school starter issues and practical transition strategies. 22 23

BRAVISSIMO • Bingara Gorge Community Preschool 15 YEARS OF SERVICE 0-5 (including Jade Organ, Paige • Carolyn Vaughan A CELEBRATION OF Kelly, Kimmy Louise, Stephanie • Caroline Morrow O U R STA F F Haywood, Rachel Fitton, Jess • Jenny O’Connor Celebrating staff achievement Hofman, Courtney Rich, Sandra • Rachael Cromie is a must. Each year Bravissimo Timpano, Blair Dickson, Charnee • Philip Anderson celebrates the long service of staff and McKay, Jessica Malady-Hall, • Kristi Barrett • Bernadette Erkin honours excellence in service to our Chantal Baltissen, Jamie Moon, • Rachael Parkes communities. Sinead Fitzpatrick, Andrew Clifford, • Lesley Karberg Catherine Vormister, Patrice Fowler, • Judith Craig Georgia Kouros) Congratulations to... • Lynn Best • Marti Lancaster SERVICE COMMITMENT AWARD CORRIMAL COMMUNITY CASTLE HILL COMMUNITY 20 YEARS OF SERVICE • Dani Liddell • Awarded to Communities for • Rebecca Curry • Melisa McKenny • Christine Walsh PRESCHOOL SOCCER PROGRAM PRESCHOOL SUPPORTS Children Team (including Paula Hill, • Nicola Hannan • Joanne Wheeler Luke Melkerts’ love of soccer inspired him to start a preschool BIDWILL KIDS CLUB Karen Edwards, Sharyn Palmer and • Karen Gottaas • Christine Freebody soccer program suitable for children of all ages. Luke worked Dani Liddell) Every Wednesday up to 60 children attend the Bidwill Kids • Kobie Connor with small groups to develop fundamental movement skills on Club where they engage with volunteers and participate in SERVICE EXCELLENCE AWARDS • Helen Bunker and off the soccer field. Parents and children took part and games, art and crafts. Castle Hill Director Leah Rudman often • Lesley Karberg - Fun Club @ each session was infused with genuine fun and enthusiasm. volunteers at Bidwill Kids Club and this year she thought that Albion Park 10 YEARS OF SERVICE Resources were donated by Corrimal Community the families at Castle Hill might wish to support local children • Svet Petkovski - Corrimal HQ • Graham Fletcher Preschool’s P&F Group and all children received a certificate with Christmas gifts. Leah approached Castle Hill Community • Helen Whalan • The Gallery Team (including Jennine marking completion of the program and highlighting their Preschool families and invited them to donate a toy that • Jade Organ Primmer, Ian Hibble, Tamara Gulic, strengths. would be given to the children who attend the Bidwill • Michelle Andrade Nina Young) Kids Club. • Anne Taylor • Corrimal Community Preschool 0-5 • Rebecca Scott Overall, Castle Hill Community Preschool families donated REGGIO EMILIA CONFERENCE (including Mine Tekkol, Cleo Oliviera, • Bill Feld more than 100 toys and the children were thrilled with their The importance of allowing children to explore, learn and Kristy Harney, Luke Melkerts, Shrijana Christmas gifts. grow on their own was at the forefront of this year’s Reggio Khanal, Lucy Power, Gabrielle Ross, Emilia Conference, held at the Melbourne Convention Centre Karen Elphick, Vittoria Filino, Sharon in July. Representatives from Corrimal, Kenny Street and OUR STAFF PURSUE EDUCATION MacDonald, Narelle Tugrul, Jess Dapto Community Preschools joined educators from across EXCELLENCE Martins, Kim Bannermann, Laura Australia to learn more about the Reggio Emilia approach. Russell, Calissa Franco, Beatrix Berey, In 2015, 74 employees were enrolled in further education Expressed simply, the Reggio approach highlights the Leah Reid) across our Community Preschools and Fun Clubs. Employees importance of children exploring and playing without • Fun Club @ Bingara Gorge (including are enrolled in the Master of Education, Bachelor of Teaching interruption to see where their experiences take them. Matt Leslie, Kalina Craig and Marie (Early Childhood), Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood), The conference affirmed that many Big Fat Smile centres Savanah) Cert 111 in Children’s Services, Diploma in Children’s Service are already implementing many elements of the Reggio and more. • Matt Hawkins - Fun Club @ Unanderra approach. Participants shared their learning and reflections • Sheree Quinn - Green Bean Play Café at a professional peer forum at Big Fat Smile HQ on Congratulations to the 23 Big Fat Smile employees who their return. completed these studies in 2015.

QUAI’S RETIREMENT, BULLI STAFF SUPPORT SHELLHARBOUR COMMUNITY PRESCHOOL FESTIVAL DRAGON BOAT EVENT Big Fat Smile employee Quai Luu retired in September after This year, Big Fat Smile employees came together to form 25 years of service at Bulli Community Preschool. Born in three teams in the Shellharbour Festival Dragon Boat event. Vietnam, fluent in Vietnamese and Chinese, and a popular Training regimes incorporated strength, timing, fitness, team member of staff, Quai was an institution at the preschool building and a good dose of laughter. for thousands of families. After moving to Australia in 1985, Illawarra Dragon Boat group provided experts who taught our Quai began work as an educator at Bulli Children’s Centre in teams the finer details of dragon boating, and many hours 1989 and stayed on as a valued team member for 25 years. were put in by all. When acknowledged for her 20 years of service a few years back, Quai said, “I will always enjoy working with children and The teams were selected on strength, agility, dedication, they will always be a part of my life”. Five years on and Quai commitment... (actually whomever wanted to be part of the reaffirmed her intention for a continuing connection with the event got a seat!) children at Bulli. MD/CEO Bill Feld spoke at the retirement Race Day saw a record number of teams entered in the event, acknowledging Quai’s long service, dedication and festival. Big Fat Smile entered the corporate team division popularity with the children and families. and was well represented by our stylishly dressed teams and courageous battlers. 24 25 leaders

LITTLE SCIENTISTS VISIT AT SUPERVISION Big Fat Smile’s Kenny Street BINGARA GORGE INTERVENTION/ Community Preschool is Australia’s first accredited Little Scientists House. TRAINING Originating in Germany, the Little This year all centres participated Scientists Program fosters children’s Social Services Minister Scott Morrison in a mandatory company-wide curiosity for science, maths and andby FederalMinisterIN Member for HumeLEARNING program aimed to improve child technology through hands-on Angus Taylor visited Bingara Gorge supervision standards. The Learning & training for educators and practical CommunityScott Morrison Preschool in March. Development and Operations teams experiments. The program is firmly The Minister sought to hear views on collaborated to develop a package established in Europe but is new to childcare affordability, issues with fee on key standards, expectations Australia. relief and details on local enrolment and procedures, as well as a video preferences and patterns. The visit resource. The training initiative was Accreditation followed intensive staff included a tour of the centre and an outstanding success with child workshops focusing on the elements marked the centre’s first birthday with supervision practices greatly improved of water and air, and a three-part children, families and staff. and the company-wide KPI for child application process. supervision standards achieved.

THE PRESCHOOL CHEF POSITIVITY@WORK Cheryl Bird has been cooking with creativity and fun at Kiama Downs Community Big Fat Smile continues to lead in Preschool for 15 years. Cheryl’s connection with the families and children is staff engagement and professional legendary and the team’s holistic approach to education is innovative and heartfelt. development. This year, the Learning Cheryl has perfected many child-friendly, nutritious and creative recipes, and it was & Development team hosted the about time we recognised her contribution. Positivity@Work workshop – a first for The book ‘The Preschool Chef’ is a creative collaboration between the preschool the sector. Delivered by Dr Suzy Green, and the kids, showcasing the Top 12 of Cheryl’s ‘tried and tested’ dishes. Visual centre directors were introduced to artist Jill Talbot worked alongside the children to produce the beautiful ‘food Positive Psychology, defined as the themed’ artworks, which became illustrations for the book. All families at Kiama science of well-being. The workshop Downs received a copy. The book was launched with a special dedication to Cheryl had a strong experiential focus with at the preschool in March. Cheryl’s proud family and friends were present, along the flow-on benefits explained for with representatives from Big Fat Smile HQ and the preschool. the social, emotional and academic Accreditation means that the outcomes of children. preschool is now recognised nationally for its expertise in bringing early Science, Mathematics and Technology ORAN PARK TOWN experiences to children aged up to five DOORS OPEN years. Wollondilly Mobile Preschool opened Big Fat Smile is proud to have been its doors at a second location on 23 Froebel’s first network training partner April. The service now operates every in Australia and now to have its first Thursday at Oran Park Town with locally accredited Little Scientists individual programs for children aged House. two to five years. The new location was Little Scientists representatives, Sibylle added to offer a quality local program Seidler and Heike Schneider visited of early learning to match the primary Kenny Street Community Preschool school terms. Enrolment is also in December to present staff with the available three days per week at Wilton. ‘Little Scientist House’ plaque. 26 27

Big Fat Smile is proud to continue its partnership leaders research with the higher education and research sector and particularly its close ties with the University in action of Wollongong and the Early Start Research Institute. Big Fat Smile is a key industry research contributor for the early years and cites the development calendar. Big Fat Smile following research collaborations for 2015. sent 80 educators to the conference in recognition of its importance in informing good policy and practice. Transforming Literacy Outcomes Dr Pauline Jones, Prof Beverly UOW Faculty of Social Among its many themes, the Derewianka, Prof Lisa Kervin, Assoc Sciences, School of Education conference explored: professional Prof Honglin Chen, Dr Jessica Mantei, development; curriculum Dr Barbra McKenzie and Ms Erika IN LEARNINGdevelopment; family engagement; Matruglio children’s digital literacy; early Well-Being and Academic Aspirations in Dr Marianna Szabo and Ms Kristy UTS Faculty of Science, School intervention in socially disadvantaged Australian Youth McKenzie of Psychology communities; and the role of physical development and nutrition on cognitive Integrating physical activities in learning Prof Tony Okely, Prof Fred Paas, Prof UOW Early Start Research development. Big Fat Smile centre geography in preschool children Paul Chandler and Ms Myrto Mavildi Institute directors and staff are already applying KIDS TOGETHER INVESTING IN what they have learned. Investigating the effects of physical Dr Dylan Cliff, Dr Steven Howard, UOW Early Start Research PROGRAM TRAINEES activity and screen-based entertainment Dr Stewart Vella, Prof Tony Okely, Institute, Faculty of Social Cobblers Hill, Barrack Heights, Big Fat Smile this year supported and NETWORK EVENING on emotional, social and cognitive Ms Tamara Raso, Ms Melinda Smith Sciences (PATH-ABC study Bundanoon District, Koonawarra, mentored 37 trainees in work based development and vascular health in funded by the Australian Dapto, Helensburgh and Warrawong Certificate III and Diploma traineeships WITH RHONDA preschool children Research Council) Community Preschools participated in for early education and school LIVINGSTONE Dr Amy Conley Wright, Prof Iram UOW Early Start Research the ‘Kids Together Program’, a program age care. Of these, 28 will gain the The Big Fat Smile Learning & Starting Strong: Making children resilient Siraj, Prof Lesley Cooper and Ms Toni Institute that provides families with specialist Certificate qualification and nine will be Development team hosted a network in early childhood Latham support for children with additional awarded Diplomas. evening with Rhonda Livingstone on 20 needs. Professionals from a range The trainees enrolled through TAFE May this year. As National Educational Early Start Baseline Project Prof Tony Okely, Prof Ted Melhuish, UOW Early Start Research of disciplines work with local staff, NSW Illawarra (Wollongong and Leader with the regulator ACECQA, Prof Iram Siraj, Prof Paul Chandler, Institute educating and supporting them on Goulburn), TAFE NSW Western Sydney Rhonda was invited to speak on the Prof Ian Wright, Dr Steven Howard, Dr best practice support. Institute, UOW College, Macquarie requirements for effective educational Jessica Mantei, Dr Amy Conley Wright, Involved since it began in February Employment Training and Wave leadership under the National Quality Assoc Prof Valerie Harwood, Assoc 2014, the team at Cobblers Hill Learning. The trainees ranged in age Framework. Rhonda spoke specifically Prof Stuart Johnstone, Dr Dylan Cliff, describes the program as an important from 18 to 37 years of age and 80% are about how educational leaders can Dr Eva Craig and Mrs Penny Cross resource for the preschool, and a great already working as qualified educators inspire, motivate and deliver quality foundation for shared learning between at Big Fat Smile centres. programs, and the importance of The relationship between educator Prof Tony Okely, Dr Rachel Jones and UOW Early Start Research educators and specialists. strong leadership. engagement and interaction and Ms Karen Tonge Institute children’s physical activity in Early EARLY START Childhood education and care services EMPLOYEE CONFERENCE ENGAGEMENT Big Fat Smile is a foundation partner in Jump Start Project Prof Tony Okely, Dr Rebecca Stanley, UOW Early Start Research SURVEY the University of Wollongong Early Start Prof Paul Chandler, Prof Ngiare Brown, Institute initiative. It recognises the importance Dr Dylan Cliff and Dr Rachel Jones Big Fat Smile conducted the annual of early experiences in shaping life Employee Engagement Survey in June. A total of 413 employees completed trajectories and the benefits of a multi- the survey, giving feedback on company disciplinary approach to improving strengths and insights into areas children’s lives. for improvement. The result was an Early Start hosted the inaugural Early Employee Engagement Index of 85.16%, Start Conference in September, which which greatly exceeds the international was a major ‘early years’ event on the average and reflects positively on the international professional engagement initiatives in place. 28 29

2015 MARKED THE START OF A NEW CHAPTER. WE FAREWELLED THE SKOOLZOUT BRAND AND leaders INTRODUCED THE NEW FUN CLUB BRAND. FAMILIES TOOK TO THE CHANGE POSITIVELY WITH A 15% INCREASE IN ENROLMENTS THIS YEAR.

MD/CEO Bill Feld launched the new Fun Club brand on 9 June in Wollongong. All Fun Club Directors and key HQ representativesIN FUN attended to hear first- hand the brand genesis and to celebrate the new beginning.

THAT;FUN ACLUB SAFE ANDIS FUNSIMPLY PLACE

WITHFOR 14 CHILDRENFUN CLUB LOCATIONS, TO ANDLAUGH ACTION-PACKED AND PLAY.SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAMS, FAMILIES HAVE REAL CHOICE FOR Fun Club Olympix Back by popular demand, the Fun Club Olympix brought together all RECREATIONTHEIR CHILDREN’S AND CARE. Fun Clubs in the September school holidays for a day of sport and game challenges. Children were encouraged to dress up in their club colours and participate in all events on the day. Fun Club Olympix was held at Beaton Park, Wollongong and even the rain couldn’t dampen the excitement, nor did it deter Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbury OAM from attending. He was a great sport and more than willing to let the children ‘dunk’ him with water. After all of the challenges, Fun Club West Wollongong prevailed as the ‘ultimate Fun Club Olympix winner’. The cup is now proudly displayed at Fun Club West Wollongong for all to see. 30 31 Creative

leaders Artspace Studio Scholarships Big Fat Smile offered one scholarship per term to Big Fat Smile educators to attend a six-week adult course in creative practice. The scholarship was created for those educators wishing to take their practice and technical skills to the next level. This year Mel Rollings (Fun Club @ West Wollongong), Artspace Studio for Kids Artists-in-Residence Program Snez Ivanoska (Kenny StreetCommunity Preschool), Sarah Tirchett (Dapto Community Preschool) and Beckie Morris (Wollongong Community Preschool) were awarded Artspace Studio for Kids business grew a massive 50% in Our creative agenda enables professional artists to work Artspace scholarships. 2015. The team delivered 20 separate nine-week programs alongside local educators. The artists visit local preschools A Celebration of Works across four terms - that’s 180 individual workshops based on and fun clubs over six-week periods to guide and inform the the work of modern and contemporary artists! local creative program. The Big Fat Artspace Show was held in November and showcased the work of students throughout the year. The Term Program Highlights: The roving creatives inspire the very best creative practice show was held at The Gallery @ Big Fat Smile and drew the in educators and children. It sets the team at Big Fat Smile • Skate Deck Design attention of future artists, parents and grandparents. apart, as we instruct, motivate and collaborate with all of our • Growing Sculptures centres to inspire creativity. Channel U for you • Weather Globes • Stormy Painting Professional Acknowledgement Launched mid-year, Channel U is the new, fully-automated employee self-service portal. It's where employees gain Over 100 school holiday workshops were also conducted After being a finalist in the prestigious Portia Geach Prize access to personal information, manage their timesheets, during the year, with budding artists exploring techniques for portraiture in 2014, visual artist, Jill Talbot was this year a apply for leave and review their balances. such as drawing, painting, sculpting, 3D printing and finalist (top 60 of 600 professional applicants) for the richest filmmaking. portraiture prize in Australia – The Doug Moran Prize. With fast access from multiple devices and platforms (yes, smart phones as well), early feedback on Channel U has been School Holiday Highlights: Visual Artist, Angela Forrest launched two successful solo very positive. shows (one at The Gallery @ Big Fat Smile) and exhibited in a • Large Paint Splatter Tent group show at Parliament House in August. • Paint Pendulum Plus • Tinker World Musician, Robby Fernandez landed the lead role of Che • Charlie and The Chocolate Factory and Edible Art Guevara at Roo Theatre’s Evita and also signed on to a • Vivid ‘Light-up’ Sculptures permanent drumming gig with the hugely popular group, • Teddy Bear Printing The Villains. Get the latest Scoop • Horror Movie Making Musician, Penny Hartgerink took time off to have a baby and Sharing good news is our thing. This year, social media Special guest artists included: also managed to headline at the Shoalhaven Winter Wine channels took on a new role with the new ‘Smile Scoop’ Festival in June. Marcello Baez, Ian Hibble, Beth Crawford, Tegan Georgette, concept introduced to bring fun, creative and positive stories Josh from Urban Art, Zach Bennett Brook and Nic Johnson. to the world. With hundreds of likes from our followers, Smile Scoops have become a favoured tool for sharing stories. 32 33

leaders The Gallery @ Big Fat Smile delivered 15 individual exhibitions in its first full Creative year of professional exhibiting. The focus of The Gallery @ Big Fat Smile is to promote creativity, engage with the community and raise children’s voices Introducing by promoting children as ‘fine artists’. The schedule for 2015 included an eclectic mix of artworks created by The Gallery @ Big Fat SmilE children as young as two years, along with up-and-coming and established adult artists.

Highlights of the Children’s Exhibitions

SPRING DOWN TOWN Corrimal Community Preschool educators, Big Fat Smile resident artists THE FALLING CHINA The exhibition showcased and 105 children between GARDEN INSPIRE the outcomes of the the ages of 2 and 5 years children’s investigations. A collaborative installation An exhibition created by children aged 2-5 years inspired embarked on a number of Each project began with a work based on the by Chinese arts and culture. This exhibition was a part of visual arts projects, themed core idea, influenced by THE 2015 BIG FAT contemporary works Big Fat Smile’s cultural exchange including children’s works around ‘community’, Chinese art. The artists and ARTSPACE SHOW of artists Steiner and from Western Suburbs, Woronora Heights and Bingara Gorge ‘changing seasons’ and ‘my the children were inspired Lenzlinger; created by Community Preschools. home’. The exhibition was The show was a celebration by this highly complex and fifteen 6-14 year olds using a launched in conjunction of the work completed Big Fat Smile resident artists, Jill Talbot and Laura Stekovic, creative culture. mix of paint, sculpture, and with the Spring into Corrimal in the Artspace Studio in and educator Svet Petkovski, spent time with the children artificial and living plant life. Everyone put their own festival. 2015. developing several creative projects. quirky and uniquely Australian spin on things. The Chinese Zodiac became a ‘zodiac’ of apr jul&aug Australian animals, the sept nov&dec shadow puppets morphed into shadow photography, the blue and white porcelain now references the Australian Bower Bird, and the Penjing gardens somehow grew people, fences and swimming pools! Jennine Primmer, Chief Creative Officer said, “We enjoyed the creative process immensely, the playfulness and humour that is uniquely Australian, buoyed by our research and learnings about this ancient and beautiful culture”. 34 35

leaders 10 STEPS TOO FAR Creative TEGAN GEORGETTE Tegan Georgette; a young artist and illustrator. The Gallery @ Big Fat SmilE TEGAN GEORGETTE

Highlights of the Adult Exhibitions

ANGELA FORREST SMITH’S HILL ARTY FUNDRAISER EXHIBITION. LILY CUMMINS BIG FAT SMILE A collaboration of works ARTISTS’ SHOW by parents, teachers and ‘CONVERGENCE’ students from Smith’s Hill High School A celebratory show displaying the talents KATE SUMMERVILLE PAUL RYAN of: Big Fat Smile ‘Artists in Residence’ Jennine 3 ADRIFT Primmer, Tamara Gulic, BIRDS, NOAH AND UNDER THE LACE Laura Stekovic, Nina Young, Lilybeth Mayhew, Kate PING PONG DANDIES ARCHES Jill Talbot, Angela Forrest, Summerville and Lisa SHADOWLAND Nicola Howard, Marcelo Martin; a celebration of Works by Paul Ryan; a highly respected artist who is also an Lily Cummins and Jess Baez; Artspace gallery three women returning to 11-time Archibald Prize finalist. Paul’s exhibition coincided Angela Forrest, Big Fat Smile Armstrong; two young assistants Kaela Weine, their arts practice after with his show at the Sydney Opera House with cult musician ‘artist in residence’; solo artists graduating from the Indiana Forrest and Naia illness, career or migration. Bill Callahan. show. National Art School, Sydney. Webb; and CEO Bill Feld.

mar&apr may&jun jun&jul aug&sept oct&nov dec

LISA MARTIN PAUL RYAN ANGELA FORREST LILY CUMMINS NINA YOUNG 36 37

INDEPENDENT FAMILY Survey

In November this year, our independent survey partners asked families to tell us how satisfied they are with Big Fat Smile. A record number of 1,155 families completed the 2015 Satisfaction Survey and we are pleased to share our positive results.

92% 88% 82% Bean of families are of families are of families are satisfied with the satisfied with the satisfied with Café staff management of the educational their centre programs at their Green Bean Play Café centre continued to grow as a popular meeting place for parents and as a safe play space for children 0-5 years. With a diverse activity schedule each month, 77% 83% 85% parents and children visited the of families are of families are of families are café in record numbers. satisfied with the satisfied with the satisfied with value for money indoor environment the outdoor at their centre environment at their centre

We value the feedback that families provided and it’s already guiding improvements. 38 39

bIG FAT SMILE Community CENTRES

Barrack Heights • Bellambi Point • Bingara Gorge Bulli • Bundanoon District • Castle Hill Cobblers Hill • Corrimal • Dapto • HelensburgH 15 Kenny Street • Kiama DownsPRESCHOOLS • Koonawarra Little Village • Narellan • Manooka Valley Albion Park • Austinmer• Balarang Picton • Port Kembla • Reynolds Street Bingara Gorge • Bulli • Bellambi Point Robertson • Rosehill • Stewart Street Fairy Meadow • Flinders Warrawong • Western Suburbs Koonawarra • Thirlmere • Wollondilly Mobile Thirroul • Unanderra (Wilton & Oran Park Town) • Wollongong City • Wollongong City • Wollongong East • Woronora Heights • West Wollongong 40 41 ALBERT EINSTEIN Partnershowdy

Education Partners • Playgroups NSW International • Little Scientists • Strategic Community Partners • TAFE Illawarra Institute Assistance for Refugee • Capital Institute of • TAFE Higher Education Families (SCARF) Pediatrics, Beijing • University of Wollongong • TAFE Illawarra Institute • China Association for – Faculty of Social • University of Wollongong Persons with Psychiatric Sciences Early Start Disability & their Relatives • University of Wollongong • Li Qiao Children’s – Early Start Creative Partners Hospital in Beijing • UOW Enterprises – UOW • Bundanon Trust • Peking People’s College Conservatorium of Music Association for Wollongong Friendship with Foreign Funding Partners • Merrigong Theatre Countries • Department of Education Company @ IPAC • Peking University Health & Training and Science Department • Department of Social Facilities Partners – Beiyi Kindergarten Services • Camden Council • Toyko City University • Families NSW • Department of Education • Yangzhou Educaton • NSW Department of and Communities Group – Moon City, Family & Community • Jalenco Homes Mei Qi & Ming Xing Services • Kiama Municipal Council Kindergartens • NSW Department of • Mintus Education • [Re]velop • Shellharbour City Council Service Delivery and • WEA Illawarra Community Partners • Wingecarribee Shire • Caresouth Council • Communities for • Wollondilly Shire Council Children Shellharbour • Wollongong City Council • Gowrie NSW • Grand Pacific Health Development • Interchange Illawarra Partners • KU Children’s Services • Mintus • Illawarra Academy of • [Re]velop Sport • Jalenco Homes • Noah’s Ark of Shoalhaven bigfatsmile.com.au