Big Hearts, Big Impact: Two Services rated Exceeding under the National Quality Standard (NQS)

Beaconsfield OSHClub: growing with care

Beaconsfield OSHClub in Victoria, was rated Exceeding in all seven quality areas, a rare and outstanding achievement.

The service has built a vibrant, child-led program that reflects the values of its school and community. From a Bush Tucker Garden co-designed with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups, to child-led clubs like Art Masters and Up-cycling, the service is a hub of creativity and connection. 

“It wasn’t just a win for our team, it was a celebration for our whole school community,” said Danielle Seisun, Regional Manager VIC. “Even our school assembly recognised the achievement. It was a moment of real joy and connection.”

Highlights from the assessment include:  

• Curriculum alignment with the school, including integrated science units and a dedicated Learning Lab 

• Cultural inclusion through the Eight Ways of Learning framework and daily Acknowledgement of Country 

• Sustainability focus, with children growing, cooking and sharing produce through a garden-to-plate program 

• Community engagement, including fundraising for The Smith Family and Backpacks for VIC Kids 

The assessment noted:  

“Strong and collaborative partnerships with families were a defining feature of the service. Educators worked closely with families to understand their unique needs, values and priorities ensuring these were reflected in the services programs and practices. This inclusive approach created a supportive environment where families felt valued, positively impacting children's experiences and outcomes.  

Child safety was a key priority, with child safety education embedded in the curriculum and staff regularly trained on the Child Safe Standards.”  

Helping Hands Kawana Waters: leading with purpose 

Helping Hands Kawana Waters in Queensland impressed assessors with its strong leadership, inclusive programming and deep community ties. The service relocated to Kawana Waters State College in late 2024 and has since built a thriving environment where children feel safe, supported and inspired. 

Highlights from the assessment include: 

• Child-led programming, including a Cooking Club, Adventure Box and weekly children’s meetings 

• Emotional wellbeing, supported by a Zen Den, visual reflection tools and individualised wellbeing plans 

• Environmental sustainability, with No Paper Days, Loose Parts Play and partnerships with Wildlings Forest School 

• Community connection, including charity drives, multicultural resources and a partnership with The Smith Family 

The service also demonstrated strong governance, with leadership cascading from the Regional Manager to the Educational Leader, and robust systems for continuous improvement, training and compliance. 

“I’m incredibly proud of our team at Helping Hands Kawana Waters. Their commitment to children, families and each other shines through every day, and this Exceeding rating is a well-earned recognition of that.”  - Tony Burns OAM, Regional Director – Sunshine Coast QLD. 

A reflection of JAG’s commitment 

Across more than 400 services nationally, JAG is focused on delivering care that’s safe, enriching and community-led. Our educators are the heart of this work. Their creativity, care and commitment to continuous improvement are what make moments like this possible. 

“This milestone is more than a rating. It is a celebration of the people, values and community spirit that define JAG,” said Melinda Crole, CEO. “It is also a powerful example of what happens when educators are empowered to lead, innovate and share their impact.” 

Beaconsfield OSHClub is now on the path toward JAG’s first Excellent rating. Helping Hands Kawana Waters continues to build on its strong foundations. We’re excited to see where the journey leads, and proud to celebrate every step along the way.