ABERDEEN Pre-School’s Joy Dallah is more than an educator – she might just be a saint judging by the length of time she has spent with countless young children, and the immense enjoyment she still receives from her role.
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“I’m a kid person, a young-kid person,” Joy says fondly from her ‘office’ – the outdoor play area of Aberdeen Pre-School.
“The minute the first child walks in and greets you the day just happens, that’s the beauty of this job, you can’t remain in a bad mood at a pre-school.”
What better attitude to have as an educator?
And, it’s clear the kids love her right back as they crowd around Joy for a group hug.
She was 31 when she took on an her role at Aberdeen Pre-School and, now, 33 years later, Friday will be her final day in charge of Aberdeen’s next generation.
“I enjoy the challenges, especially the children with challenges like behavioural problems,” Joy says.
“They need time, patience and understanding, there’s always a door you can open to get to them.”
During her 33 years Joy has taken care of two generations of kids and now works alongside her daughter-in-law.
Two of her children attended the pre-school as well as her nieces, nephews and grandchildren.
Having to shield children from the stallion who knocked down the fence next door is a stand-out memory from 25 years ago.
“There have been lots of characters come through but no real dramas,” Joy says.
“I still remember one little boy who told our visiting Santa that he wanted a truck for Christmas.
“When the children unwrapped their presents, they all get books you see, and the boy said ‘That’s not a truck you silly old bugger! That’s a book!’,” Joy said with a laugh.
She says she likes the way education has evolved over the years to become more child-led.
“They have time to play and no play is rigid,” Joy says.
“It’s open-ended play and that’s how children learn.”
“What am I going to do without Joy?” bemoaned director Sharon Jordan.
“She is a huge asset at our pre-school and the community, she’s my right-hand man, no matter what’s on Joy is there.”
Joy says she has been extremely fortunate with her fellow staff.
“The staff has become my family, it’s not just a job here. I’m blessed, I work with my friends.”
After finishing up at the pre-school, Joy plans to go travelling with her husband.
“We just like going bush and exploring,” Joy said.
On Friday, December 15, at 10am the centre will have a special cake for Joy and there will also be a presentation from the committee. Past students and their families are invited to drop in throughout the day to say goodbye.