Tieri Daycare Awarded SmartyGrant

Tieri Daycare was extremely fortunate to be a successful recipient of a $10,000 Glencore SmartyGrant. 

“The grant funding has been used in many valuable ways across our service, helping us purchase much needed resources that directly benefit the children and their learning environments,” says Danielle Coveney, Director of Tieri Daycare. 

One such item that had been on Danielle’s wish list for some time was outdoor seating for the children. 

“We have an outdoor area where the children enjoy craft activities and morning tea, and the new seating has provided more space and created a welcoming, comfortable area for the children to sit, interact and socialise. It’s become a favourite space for the children to sit and enjoy a snack together or happily create wonderful artwork.”

Speaking of artwork, the children took part in the Capella Show this year where they entered an artwork banner inspired by one of the daycare children, Gracie, who brought in a bird’s nest she had found in her backyard. 

“This sparked a great deal of interest among the children so we began exploring butterflies, flowers, bees, and grubs. Anything that flew, crawled, or wiggled quickly captured their curiosity, and the children were fully engaged in the learning experience,” Danielle shares.

With the money from the SmartyGrant, the daycare was also able to purchase colourful water play resources, including buckets, jugs and funnels. These have been a huge hit with the children, who love mixing and pouring. 

“Water play has been fantastic for developing hand-eye coordination and has also opened up many opportunities for communication and cooperative play as the children work together,” explains Danielle. 

Inside the centre, the team has purchased bright new mats and room dividers, making the indoor play areas more inviting, comfortable and creative.

With the remaining funds, Danielle has arranged for a much-needed shade sail to be installed outside. This will provide additional sun protection for our outdoor area, allowing the children to enjoy outdoor play more safely and comfortably. 

Supporting the community

“We would like to sincerely thank Glencore and Oaky Creek Coal (OCC) for their generous support. The SmartyGrant application process is very easy and the team at OCC were more than happy to assist with any questions along the way, which made the experience even more positive.”

Danielle is also quick to thank OCC for the delicious Easter Bunnies they kindly purchased and delivered to the daycare. “They were very much enjoyed by the children and the staff as well! The children LOVED making the OCC team a thank you card for their yummy chocolate treats.”

“Thank you to Glencore for their generosity and continued support of our community and our little centre. Your contribution has made a meaningful contribution and difference and we are truly grateful.”