Our Leadership Team

 

 

Sonja Walker – Director
Sonja is eminently qualified to lead the Kids First team. She has been a qualified teacher for more than 20 years, a period through which she has worked tirelessly to advocate for the needs of children and families in the community. Sonja is particularly committed to the support of children with additional needs and served for several years on the Board of children's charity, Lifestart. With extensive experience as a classroom teacher, Sonja has also worked in the corporate world in the area of adult learning and development. Sonja’s years of daily contact with parents, teachers, health professionals, schools and government agencies give her a unique understanding of children’s learning and development needs. She is an award winning business leader and accomplished writer on children’s affairs. Sonja is also a sought after seminar presenter and engaging public speaker who is frequently called upon as an expert commentator by the media. Sonja is frequently invited to travel around  Australia to share advice and strategies at workshops and seminars. Sonja’s many roles at Kids First include teacher, Allied Health Team Manager, Education Team Leader and Community Service Coordinator. She also presents parenting programs such as 123 Magic and works closely with local schools and preschools to provide staff training and professional development programs. A busy mum herself, Sonja understands the pressures of modern family life. At the heart of Sonja’s mission to make a difference for kids is her talent as an educator who quickly develops rapport with children of all ages. Her warmth, authenticity and friendly personality makes her a popular favourite with children, parents and colleagues. 

 

   
   

 

 

 

Kim Pinfold - Customer Service Manager
Kim’s natural rapport, zany style and genuine warmth make her a popular favourite with Kids First's children and their families. As the first point of contact for parents, carers and professionals, Kim understands the need to provide courteous, considerate and confidential support – a skill honed through her many years as a corporate leader at Australia's longest running airline. Kim's customer service and management expertise together with her formal qualifications in child care have equipped her to handle just about anything…a good thing in a busy place like Kids First!

 

   
   

 

 

  Debbie Gyde – Administration Manager
Debbie has been with Kids First since its inception in 2007 and has played an integral role in the growth of our children’s health and education centre. With a strong background in administration, Debbie brings her wealth of experience in companies both big and small to Kids First. A busy mum with two active boys, Debbie is also committed to community sport and serves on the executive committees of two local junior clubs. We don’t know how she fits it all in… but we suspect the secret of her success is her second drawer stash of energy boosting lollies!
   
   

 

 

 Mandy Penfold - Customer Service Coordinator Kids First Children's Services   Mandy Penfold – Customer Service Coordinator
Mandy brings poise and professionalism to Kids First busy operations centre. Mandy's career has given her opportunities to support executives in multi-national corporations and Kids First benefits from her strong business skills. In addition, Mandy offers a warm welcome to every child and family while enjoying Kids First busy and always changing environment. As Mandy so often says, Kids First is a dynamic place where there's never a dull moment!
     

 

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