Our leaders are always ready to land a helping hand, even if it's just to listen and they encourage us to take on new roles and provide us with ample opportunities to grow.
Of Teaching Tots and Growing Lots
Out of Bhavani’s 17-year journey in early childhood education, 16 were dedicated to Star Learners.
From an assistant teacher, Bhavani has worked her way up to assume her current role as Principal at Star Learners @ Bishan Central. Despite the long hours and heavy responsibilities, Bhavani has found a healthy work-life balance with the support of her family and the nurturing environment that Star Learners offers. Her journey with the organisation is an inspiring example of how a career can be fulfilling and rewarding when one finds the right fit.
Principal, Bishan Central
16 years with Star Learners
What inspired you to pursue a career in early childhood education and how has your progression been like?
Like many others, I believed that a career in early childhood education was a natural fit for someone who loves working with children. At that time, I was fresh out of school and tutoring primary school children. When the time came for me to think about my career path and choose a course of study for my diploma, I decided to pursue Marketing instead. However, I found it unsuitable and decided to stick to my first ‘love’, and went on to pursue a full-time teaching career.
I started out as an assistant teacher at a preschool, and after a year, an ex-colleague who had joined Star Learners invited me to join the organisation. I then assumed the role as an assistant teacher and stayed on after completing my practicum. When I finished my diploma, I became a form teacher, and after seven years of teaching, I was promoted to Principal. I have been with Star Learners for 16 years now, since our very first centre in Eunos. I have seen the company through various periods of change and growth. Despite the challenges, my journey here has been both rewarding and fulfilling. It has shown me what I am capable of and given me the chance to grow in many ways.
How do you balance your personal and professional responsibilities?
As a Principal, it’s unavoidable to be working long hours and sometimes even bringing work home. However, I’m fortunate to have a supportive family who understands the importance of my career and the role it plays in our lives. With their assistance, I’m able to give my best at Star Learners. Having been with the company for almost 16 years now, I can say with confidence that Star Learners has a strong culture of support and inclusivity. Our management team is incredibly supportive, and their leadership has created an environment where staff members stay for a long time. The people here truly make the company. Our leaders are always ready to lend a helping hand, even if it’s just to listen and they encourage us to take on new roles and provide us with ample opportunities to grow. I take immense pride in working for such a nurturing and encouraging company. The professionalism and expertise they bring to the table are unparalleled and I’m grateful to be a part of this remarkable team.
What is the most significant impact that Star Learners has had on you?
One aspect of Star Learners that has left a profound impact on me is our unwavering commitment to progress. We consistently push ourselves to improve our processes. It’s not just about solving problems; we aim to find better solutions and implement them in a way that benefits everyone. Even after we have implemented something, we continually observe and revise it to make it work even better. This dedication to continuous improvement is impressive and has rubbed off on me, helping me grow both professionally and personally. Having spent my 20s and now, 30s with Star Learners, I’m grateful for the impact it has had on me and the ongoing commitment to growth and improvement.
What are your well wishes for Star Learners as we celebrate 20 Inspiring Years?
I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to Star Learners on this milestone and hope to see us continue to grow not just in terms of numbers, but also in reputation and brand. I take pride in our achievements and believe that we are a shining example of excellence in the ECCE sector in Singapore. Our growth is testament to the dedication and hard work of our team, and I believe that our success sets a high standard for other private organisations to strive towards.
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