International Child Care College RTO ID 90081

Meet Vanessa

Vanessa’s journey in Early Childhood Education and Care began straight after completing her HSC. She completed her Diploma while working in a small two-room service, before studying her Bachelor degree by correspondence while continuing to work full time. Her dedication and passion for the sector led her into a Director role within a large Long Day Care service, and after having children, she transitioned into Training and Assessing.

What Vanessa enjoys most about her role is the opportunity to inspire and work alongside the next generation of educators through a range of learning experiences, industry events, and networking opportunities. Supporting others entering the profession is not only incredibly rewarding but also continues to strengthen her own skills, confidence, and knowledge within an ever-evolving industry.

Looking back, Vanessa is grateful for every opportunity, challenge, and connection that has shaped her career journey so far, and we’re so grateful to have her as part of the ICCC team 😊

Why is play dough such a great tool for early years development?

Aside from being a fun and open-ended activity, play dough allows young children to explore fine and gross motors skills with sensory feedback, identify and compare colours, and it provides relaxation by offsetting energy.

Amongst a theory-heavy first week of study, our Newcastle Central EPP Head Start students also got messy and learned how to make their own.



Central Coast Group Training
Callaghan College Waratah Campus Newcastle High School Tomaree High School

We couldn't be prouder to share that our Training Manager Amanda Porich has been named a 2026 Business Hunter Outstanding Employee Award finalist.

Anyone who has worked alongside Amanda knows just how much heart she brings to her role. As part of our Training and Assessment team, she walks alongside students, Workplace Supervisors, and colleagues every day; offering guidance, encouragement and the kind of support that helps people grow into confident, capable educators. She has a real gift for helping others find their way, and it shows in every student she supports on their learning journey.

This year's awards received a record 300+ applications from across the Hunter, with so many outstanding people and organisations nominated. To be named a finalist among that calibre of talent speaks volumes about Amanda and the difference she makes, not just within our team, but across the whole Early Childhood and Hunter community.

Please join us in congratulating Amanda and sending her well wishes for the Business Hunter Awards on September 11. We'll be cheering her on.

Working together to achieve shared goals. 🤝
At International Child Care College RTO ID 90081, collaboration is at the heart of learning. By supporting one another and working towards a common purpose, we help build the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to succeed in Early Childhood Education and Care.
Together, we create stronger learners, stronger educators, and brighter futures.
If you're thinking about a future in early childcare, get in touch. You can find us here 👇
https://lakemacfamilylife.com.au/listing/international-child-care-college/

Study smarter, not harder, with this month's study tips 📖

Our Student Learning Portal gives learners easy access to everything they need in one place.

Did you know ICCC is involved with the Newcastle Early Childhood Connect network?

For the past year, we've been bringing together Early Childhood Education and Care leaders from across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie to connect, collaborate and support one another.

Newcastle Early Childhood Connect provides a space for Service Directors and leaders to:
🤝 Build meaningful professional connections
💬 Discuss current sector challenges and opportunities
📚 Share ideas, resources and best practice
🌱 Learn from the experiences of fellow ECEC professionals
🧩 Take part in conversations tailored to the needs of our local sector

It's been fantastic to see this network grow, with passionate educators coming together to strengthen our local ECEC community.

Flick through some highlights of the story so far! 📸

If you're an ECEC Director or leader in the Newcastle or Lake Macquarie region and would like to join us at a future meeting, we'd love to welcome you.

🔗 Join the Newcastle Early Childhood Connect group here:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/newcastleecconnect/

Together, we're building a stronger, more connected Early Childhood sector. 🚸

Did you know? Early Childhood is one of the most important stages of development. Check out this month’s fun facts! 💡

Working together to achieve shared goals. 🤝

At International Child Care College, collaboration is at the heart of learning. By supporting one another and working towards a common purpose, we help build the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to succeed in Early Childhood Education and Care.

Together, we create stronger learners, stronger educators, and brighter futures.