Sofia Machado
Director
Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood)
My passion for early childhood education is deeply personal. My own childhood experiences had a profound impact
on who I am today and inspired me to create the kind of environment where every child feels safe, valued and empowered to reach their full potential. I believe the early years shape not only how children learn, but also how they see themselves and the world around them.
Beyond my work, I have a love of adventure, travel and experiencing different cultures. Exploring new places and meeting people from diverse backgrounds has strengthened my belief that every child brings a unique story, perspective and way of learning.
I strive to foster this same sense of curiosity, respect and wonder at Pottsville
Community Preschool, creating opportunities for children to connect with nature, embrace diversity and become
confident, compassionate learners.
pottsville preschool educators and history
Adelle Jarvis
2IC & Nature Explorers Leader
Diploma of Early Childhood Education & Care
My path into early childhood education began when I saw how engaged and enthusiastic my own child was at Nature Explorers. What he was learning, and how he was learning it, led me to retrain as an early childhood educator. Having grown up surrounded by the countryside, I have always felt a deep sense of belonging in nature, and I wanted every child to experience that same connection, freedom and awe when learning.
What I love most about early childhood education is that children arrive each day full of wonder, acceptance and being their whole selves. Nurturing a small spark of interest and watching it grow into something wonderful is one of the great joys of this work. Being part of a community where we all belong, where we care for each other and the environment, matters deeply to me, and I hope children carry that sense of care with them for the rest of their lives.
I champion play, a connected and beautiful
childhood, resilience and a love of the land we play on.
Katrina McGilvery
Educational Leader
Bachelor of Education
(Birth to Five)
I have been working in early childhood education for over 20 years. I feel fortunate to be part
of a profession that allows me to support children during such an important stage of their lives. I enjoy creating a fun, engaging environment where children feel confident to explore, learn, and develop at their own pace.
I have a particular interest in supporting children’s social and emotional development and helping them build strong
relationships, confidence, and a sense of belonging. I value getting to know each child as an individual and creating
meaningful learning experiences that encourage curiosity, connection, and growth.
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Pottsville Community Preschool was established in 1982 as a not-for-profit community preschool created to provide high-quality early childhood education for local children and families.
From its beginnings, the preschool has been built on strong community connections, with a commitment to providing a nurturing, play-based learning environment where children feel a sense of belonging.
The preschool has continued to grow and evolve over the years. Michele Howell, our original Director, played an important role in establishing the foundations of the service, followed by Cassine Read, who led the preschool from 2012 to 2021. During this time, the preschool continued to strengthen its educational program and community relationships.
In 2016, the Nature Explorers program was introduced, creating opportunities for children to connect with nature, develop confidence and learn through outdoor exploration.
In 2021, Sofia Machado became Director, continuing the preschool’s commitment to children, families and the wider community.
In 2025, the preschool opened its new purpose-built facility, marking an exciting new chapter while honouring the rich history, values and community spirit that have shaped Pottsville Community Preschool for more than 40 years. Further, 2025 saw the expansion of our service offerings with the Masterclass program, dedicated to offering hand-on and creative discovery to our preschoolers was added to our service offerings.
Foundation
Local community establishes Pottsville Preschool.
1982
New Leadership
Cassine Read begins tenure as Director.
2012
Innovation
Nature Explorers program is launched.
2016
Present Day
Sofia Machado becomes the new Director.
2021
New Chapter
New purpose-built facility & Masterclass launch.
2025
RATIONAL
Underpinned by the Early Years Learning Framework of Belonging, Being, and Becoming, we believe that every child is a unique explorer, and our philosophy is built on the foundation of curiosity and play.
Our rationale centers on fostering a safe, nurturing environment where children can thrive through hands-on experiences and meaningful interactions.
We aim to cultivate lifelong learners who are confident, empathetic, and ready for the challenges of school, all while developing the social and emotional skills they need to succeed in a modern world.
● Acknowledge and respect that we meet on land that traditionally belongs to the Bundjalung people
● Embed sustainability and nature into our everyday practices
● Promote an inclusive and anti-bias environment
● Create a culture of collaboration, care and responsibility within the Preschool and wider community
● Create reciprocal partnerships with other educational providers and key community partners
● Recognise the importance of secure and reciprocal relationships with children, families and
community
● Acknowledge that families are the child’s biggest influence in their development
● Aim to promote a sense of belonging and agency within our preschool
● Play is crucial for strengthening children’s learning, development and their understanding of the world
around them
● Educators commit to delivering a high quality learning environment that is flexible and adaptive
● Educators engage in reflective practices to implement positive change
● Support children to learn through play and intentional teaching the life-long skill of managing risks
● Encourage children to become active and involved learners, researchers, explorers, problem solvers and creators
● Children, families and educators are provided with tools to support social and emotional wellbeing and
self regulation
At Pottsville Community Preschool and Nature Explorers, we value every child as a unique, capable and curious
learner. We believe children thrive through play, meaningful relationships, connection with nature and opportunities to
explore their world.
Our aim is to provide a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment where every child feels a sense of belonging,
develops confidence and is supported to reach their full potential.
We value:
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Belonging and inclusion – every child and family is welcomed, respected and valued.
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Play-based learning – encouraging curiosity, creativity, problem-solving and discovery.
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Connection with nature – fostering respect and care for the natural world.
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Strong relationships – building partnerships with children, families, educators and our community.
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Respect for culture – celebrating diversity and embedding Aboriginal perspectives.
As our community preschool, we are committed to creating a place where children feel safe, connected and inspired to
learn.
Belonging and Inclusion
Play-Based Learning
Connection with Nature
Strong Relationships
Respect for Culture
Our Commitment to Inclusion
We believe in a world where every child is valued and supported.
Our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is a living document that guides our daily practices, ensuring we foster a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all families in our community.