About Us
Open Arms Early Education Centre is a family owned and operated early childhood education company. A dream that began as a topic at the dinner table became a reality as a Mother and Daughter brought their idea for inclusive, supportive and strong family value early education to life.
With an emphasis on ‘family style childcare,’ the owners work closely to ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging to the Open Arms Family. Our services focus on the children at the centre; ensuring that we strengthen each child's connection to educators, community, sense of self and the world around them.
With the owners combined 42 years’ experience in the Early Childcare Industry and a focus on bringing their family values and support to all members at OAEEC; you can be assured that your family will be met with high-quality education services.
Open Arms Early Education Centre has a simple foundation on which it was built.
To strive to provide the next generation with a high-quality, supportive and loving early learning experience.
To embrace everyone; without discrimination.
With Open Arms.
MEET OUR OWNERS
A Mother and Daughter Team; Vanessa and Alyssa have 42 combined years
experience in the Early Childcare Industry.
Open Arms was named during a family dinner conversation with one promise;
to ensure we always offer a personal and welcoming experience for all.
A nurturing second home for children. A high-quality educational experience.
To be a part of our OAEEC family.
Alyssa Wood
I have grown up watching the childcare industry grow and evolve through every stage of change. I am an Early Childhood Teacher and strive to support the educators, families and children attending our service. I have a young family of my own, a son and 2 daughters who have embraced childcare as their second home. They have loved all stages of learning and play, all while sharing their milestones from 6 weeks old with beautiful and caring educators. This has been a highlight of my educator journey and has shaped my philosophy as it evolved as I became a Mum.
I believe in children learning through play, embedding sustainability into every day practices, supporting children of all needs and abilities and ensuring each child that attends Open Arms is an extended family member of my own. I work closely with our team to facilitate high - quality practices and programs which support the learning of children of all ages. Offering excursions and community support and access is a passion of mine. I believe that all children should know and access their local community to extend on learning opportunities and further create a sense of belonging.
I pride myself on ensuring that each child at OAEEC is provided with high quality care, full of love and learning. And that our families are offered the most unique, educational and highly sought after early education journey.
Vanessa Henderson
I have been actively involved in the childcare industry for the past 30 years and have helped Alyssa learn all aspects of Childcare Management. I also hold my Diploma in Early Childhood Education. My background is in managing and supporting services through management changes, accreditation and staff support. I have 3 big children of my own, Alyssa and her brother and sister. I am also a proud Grandma to 3 young children who bring me so much joy; I have loved watching them thrive in our childcare settings. OAEEC embodies our commitment to family; we have created wonderful friendships with our staff and community during this time.
I believe in offering the highest support to our families; no matter what the circumstances. You will always be welcome with Open Arms.
Working together with my daughter to create our own vision of early childhood education is a wonderful experience.