Every story has a beginning, and ours began with people who believed in what St Nicholas could become.
When our first Early Education centres opened in Newcastle West and Singleton in 2016, the children, families, educators and leaders who joined us became part of an important new chapter.
Ten years later, we invited people from across the past and present of St Nicholas to share their memories and experiences in The First Ones, a special web series created to celebrate our 10-year anniversary.
The people behind our story
The First Ones brings together members of the St Nicholas community who each represent a different part of our story. Some were there during our earliest days, while others reflect how St Nicholas has grown and the future we are building.
Across the series, they reflect on their experiences with St Nicholas, the relationships they have formed, how our services have changed and what they believe has remained at the heart of our work.
Their stories offer a personal perspective on a decade of growth. They remind us that the St Nicholas story is not simply measured in new services, enrolments or care sessions. It is found in the everyday moments that matter to children and families.
It is found in the warm welcome on a child’s first day. In the educator who takes the time to listen. In the friendships formed, the milestones celebrated and the confidence families place in the people caring for their children.
What has changed, and what has remained
St Nicholas has grown considerably since 2016. Today, we provide Early Education, OOSH and Pathways programs across communities throughout the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.
While our size and reach have changed, our purpose remains the same: to provide safe, nurturing and inclusive environments where children feel known, valued and supported to thrive.
The First Ones celebrates the people who helped establish that purpose and those who continue to carry it forward.
It is also a chance to look ahead. As St Nicholas enters its next decade, the experiences and insights shared throughout the series will continue to inform how we support children, families, educators and communities.
We thank everyone who generously shared their story, as well as every person who has contributed to St Nicholas over the past 10 years.
Watch The First Ones
The six episodes of The First Ones will be released between Wednesday 26 August and Monday 7 September:
- Wednesday 26 August: Episode 1, Jodie, a parent from the beginning
- Friday 28 August: Episode 2, Growing up through Darby’s eyes
- Monday 31 August: Episode 3, Madie, an educator from day one
- Wednesday 2 September: Episode 4, Jen and the OOSH story
- Friday 4 September: Episode 5, Jasmine’s first steps as an educator
- Monday 7 September: Episode 6, Mel looks to the future
Watch The First Ones and meet some of the people who have shaped our first decade and those helping shape what comes next.
