Meet Our Qualified & Caring Early Childhood Educators in Mitcham
At Emmikins, our purpose is to nurture confident, kind, and capable children through relationship-based learning in a safe, inclusive, and enriching environment.
We honour each child’s voice, celebrate diversity, and partner with families to provide responsive, high-quality care and education. Grounded in trust, compassion, and professional integrity, we create a place where children thrive, families feel supported, and meaningful learning begins.
Our History
Emmikins Early Learning Centre has been a cherished part of the Mitcham community for over 25 years, and for the past 13 years, it has flourished under the loving guidance of its current management. The centre is proudly owned and operated by Beth Lele, a registered nurse and devoted mother.
Inspired by her own journey into motherhood, Beth made the heartfelt decision to transition from nursing into early childhood education. Her goal was simple but powerful: to offer other families the same nurturing, high-quality care and learning experiences she wished for her own child.
At Emmikins, we are proudly child-safe, child-aware, and wholeheartedly child-centred. Every decision we make is guided by one clear principle: what is in the best interest of the child. We believe in creating a secure, nurturing environment where children feel seen, heard, and supported to grow and explore at their own pace.
Over the years, Emmikins has grown into a warm, inclusive, and welcoming space where families from all walks of life feel at home. We deeply value long-term relationships with our children, their families, our dedicated educators, and the wider community. These meaningful connections are at the heart of everything we do, helping us build a strong, supportive environment where every child can truly thrive.
At Emmikins, children are not only cared for they are truly cherished.
Our Dog - Mr. Tumnus
Mr. Tumnus, our much-loved Cavoodle, has been part of the Emmikins family since he was a mischievous little puppy. He lives with Beth and trots into the centre with her every day, tail wagging like he’s the boss (which, to be fair, he might be). Over the years, he has formed wonderful bonds with children, parents, and educators alike, offering comfort, calm, and the very best cuddles (his specialty). He has an uncanny knack for sensing the moods of those around him, knowing exactly who needs a gentle nuzzle or an extra-long snuggle to brighten their day.
As well as being everyone’s favourite furry friend, Mr Tumnus helps teach the children how to care for animals, from gentle patting to understanding their needs. He is wormed monthly, up to date with all vaccinations, and enjoys regular grooming and baths, which he tolerates… mostly. Clean, healthy, and full of charm, Mr Tumnus brings warmth, laughter, and a touch of doggy wisdom to our days.
Our Staff
At Emmikins Early Learning Centre, we’ve built a team of warm, highly skilled educators who know that raising little humans takes more than just qualifications; in fact, it takes heart, patience, and a good dose of humour. Our educators are not only qualified in early childhood education and development, but most have been part of our Emmikins family for many years, building deep connections with the children and families they care for. We also have a Registered Nurse (Div 1) on-site, so bumps, sniffles, and the occasional playground tumble are met with professional care and a reassuring smile. Every member of our team holds a current Working with Children Check and police clearance, because your child’s safety is always our top priority. Step through our doors and you’ll see the laughter, the cuddles, the curiosity... and perhaps a bit of glitter that make up our loving, happy, and stimulating environment. At Emmikins, we don’t just care for children, we cherish your serious little ones.
Our educators and staff are qualified in the following areas:
- Working with children
- Police checks
- Child safe and Child Aware
- Occupational Health & Safety
- Mental Health First Aid Officers
- First Aid and CPR trained (Allergy aware, Asthma and Anaphylaxis)
- Certificate III qualified educators (or working towards)
- Diploma qualified educators (or working towards)
- VIT Qualified Kindergarten Teachers
- Registered Nurse (Div 1)
