Much loved preschool teacher Margot Gregory has long been referred to as the ‘treasure’ of The Yass Early Childhood Centre Association (YECCA).
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An institution in the lives of Yass Valley families for 25 years, Margot has had the “absolute pleasure” of nurturing the minds and souls of generations of local children. She has been a calm, loving and unwavering presence for so many students as they navigate the momentous step from preschool to primary school.
Margot owns a special place in the hearts of students, parents and staff at YECCA, who all joined together to celebrate her 25th anniversary at the community preschool this week.
Director Fiona Nolan said Margot was one of a kind. Second to none.
“What a treasure...her manner with the children, her easy going nature, nothing is ever a problem with Margot. The children and their families are what matters most to her,” she said. “Margot is the longest serving employee at YECCA and we don’t want to ever give her up! We just love her. We all do. What’s not to love about Margot, I always say.”
YECCA board vice president Maree Doyle presented Margot with a gift of appreciation on Tuesday, October 18 and said YECCA, and the wider Yass community, is privileged to have her.
Margot holds Diplomas in Teaching in Early Childhood and Special Education and has travelled 36kms from her home near Boorowa to Yass each day to teach at YECCA. She told the Yass Tribune that she is the lucky one.
“I have seen many families come through YECCA and that has been lovely. I just love seeing the children gain confidence and develop into positive, happy children going off to big school,” Margot said.
“I like their sense of humour and I like their honesty.”
In their biggest and proudest voices, some of Margot’s students told The Tribune just how much she means to them. Their honesty almost tangible.
“She’s the best teacher ever,” said Amelia Thornleigh.
“I just love her so much because I love to sing her songs,” added Tiffany Skillen, her mother Katie also one of Margot’s students.