Camosun College and a partnership in caring

On June 12, 2012 Paula West-Patrick, Manager of Children's Services, and Shannon Whissell, Manager of Communications & Fund Development were honoured to attend Camosun College's presentation of awards to students in the Community, Family and Child Studies Department. The Cridge Centre for the Family, with 139 years of service to children in Greater Victoria, proudly sponsors three awards for students in the Early Learning and Care Program. 

The celebration was a reminded of how much The Cridge Centre gains from our partnereship with Camosun College, as students completing practicum placements at The Cridge Childcare Centre enrich the learning of both the children and the staff. The award winners for the 2011-2012 school year embody The Cridge Centre's focus on whole-child development, professionalism, caring, and going beyond the prescribed in service to children, families and other team members. 

The Cridge Centre for the Family – Ada Barner Award

Named for the long-serving and beloved matron of The BC Protestant Orphans' Home, this award goes to an Early Learning and Care Diploma graduate who has excelled in written, oral and practical work evidencing a comprehensive grasp of the nurturance of the whole child: spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, physically and socially; and the understanding of the vital partnership with the family in encouraging a child to develop to their greatest potential.

This year's winner is Lee-Ann "Annie" Erickson. Annie's mentor said that from the moment she met Annie, it was apparent that she is passionate about children and families. Annie supported the family-centred philosophy of the centre and enriched it. Her narrations were delightful and insightful. Annie's instructor appreciate her ability to incorporate feedback and learning into her practice. Annie thourghfully planned for the children in her care, noticing individual children's strengths and delights. Annie, you are a credit to the field of Early Childhood. 

This years recipient, coincidentally, is currently blessing The Cridge Childcare Centre by completing her special needs practicum among the preschool children. 

The Cridge Centre for the Family – Regional Award

This award is presented to an Early Learning and Care Diploma program student who excelled in all outcomes of each practicum, demonstrating professionalism and excellent practice.

It was a pleasure to present the award to Nadely Wilkinson. Nadely's instructor noted that her skill in working with children was far beyond that of a second practicum student. She was competent, working seamlessly with child care staff taking on the role of a professional early childhood educator. Her mentor said that she demonstrated a high level of professionalism and dedication, and was always friendly, opan and approachable. Well done, and well deserved, Nadely. 

The Cridge Centre for the Family – Pursuit of Excellence Award

The recipient of this award has shown a commitment to professional excellence. During their first year this student will have practically demonstrated a knowledge of professional behaviour and exhibited intuitive respect for children.

Although she was unable to attend the ceremony, we are pleased the award went to Aracelli Orozco Morales. Araceli has completed the first year of her ELD diploma program. At the end of the first year, her instructor said that it was a pleasure to have Aracelli as a practicum student. She excelled in both practica, easily assuming the role of a professional educator. The mentors for both of her practicum placements appreciated her competent and sensitive manner while working with the children and their families. Araceli, you bring many gifts to the profession. 

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All photos are copyright of Camosun College, and are used with their generous permission. All photos from the event are available on the Camosun College Flickr stream.