As education coaches and mentors, we get to witness some incredible transformations in early years services across Australia. But every now and then, a service embeds itself in our hearts. We don’t just support them. We become part of the journey. That’s exactly what happened with Nido Early School Trafalgar.
Two years ago, Phoenix Support for Educators began working with Nido Trafalgar as part of their School Readiness Funding. The team was facing some pretty big challenges, with complex dynamics, struggling to make sure all children's needs were met. This drove a clear call for guidance, support, and fresh strategies. Fast forward to today, and the transformation we have seen is nothing short of extraordinary.
The team at Nido Trafalgar dived headfirst into rethinking their approach to early childhood education. They fully embraced the Phoenix Cups framework® as a philosophy that helps educators understand that every child’s behaviour is an attempt to meet their basic human life needs for safety, freedom, connection, mastery, and fun. Through coaching, mentoring, workshops and countless hours of reflection, the team has woven trauma-sensitive practices, intentionality and change into their practice.
“Our journey has been long and demanding, but the transformation we’ve seen is profound. By understanding and addressing the underlying needs driving children’s behaviours, we’ve created a more supportive and nurturing environment. The insights and strategies provided by Phoenix Support for Educators have been invaluable, equipping us with the tools to foster positive change. As we continue to grow and learn, we remain committed to providing the best possible care for the children entrusted to us.” - Jordyn, Executive Service Manager
Place-Based Practice: Understanding Community Needs
Situated in Baw Baw Shire, Nido Trafalgar serves a community with high levels of vulnerability. A staggering 30.3% of children are identified as vulnerable in at least one area of development. This is far above state and national averages. Social and emotional vulnerabilities are especially prevalent, making it essential to create a space where children feel safe, supported, and empowered.
The team at Nido Trafalgar took this challenge on with remarkable dedication. With the Phoenix Cups framework as their guide, they have worked tirelessly to truly respond to the unique needs of their children and families. They didn’t just change their programming, they changed their entire mindset.
"The children used to go from 0-100 in two minutes then it would take 90 minutes to calm everything down. That doesn't happen now [their needs are being met]. We did a lot of reflective practice around that." - Jodie, Educational Leader.
Rest and Retreat for Regulation
One of the biggest game-changers has been the intentional creation of rest and retreat spaces. The team recognised that children need spaces where they can regulate their emotions, recharge, and simply be. Whether it’s their open-air sensory retreat room or the indoor spaces carefully designed for sensory input, these areas give children the chance to pause and find comfort. The educators plan for seven senses (sight, sound, smell, touch, taste, proprioception, and vestibular), incorporating deep pressure tools like punching bags, trampolines, crash mats, balance activities, and heavy manipulatives to help children self-regulate.
“We’re getting better at taking a breath. I believe Tam and I have grown in our leadership too” - Jodie, Educational Leader.
Movement and Physical Activity: Learning Through Play
In addition to quiet zones, the importance of active, physical play has been embraced. Indoor/outdoor programs run throughout the day, ensuring children have lots of opportunities for big, physical play. Inside, climbing equipment and obstacle courses support children’s neurological and gross motor development. Outside, risky play and heavy work activities provide proprioceptive input, helping children regulate their emotions and energy levels.
This isn’t just about fitness. It is about healing and development. Activities like climbing, swinging, and pushing heavy objects help children process trauma and develop emotional resilience. We have seen it in action. The shift in behaviour, confidence, and engagement has been astounding.
Planning for Play, Freedom and Choice
Agency and autonomy have become pillars of practice at Nido Trafalgar. The educators have found a balance between providing safety and predictability while allowing children the freedom to make choices about their day. Flexible transitions, fruit bowls, individual rhythms, and child-led learning have empowered children to take ownership of their daily experiences, supporting children to feel in control of their world.
"I have to admit, at first the children were wasting a lot of fruit. But over time they grew to understand that the fruit will always be there. Now they're happy to help themselves and they eat the whole piece - there's very little waste. But it probably took most of last year to get that established" - Christy, Early Childhood Teacher
"We're ensuring children can access food every 60-90 minutes. Their brains are so active at this age (2-3 yrs old)" - Sarah, Educator
The hard work behind the scenes
Let’s be clear... this transformation hasn’t been easy. The team at Nido Trafalgar have worked incredibly hard. They have attended training after training, asked the tough reflective questions, trialed new strategies, and adapted along the way. Some changes were small, like shifting language from corrective statements to “Say what you see; Ask a question.” Others were massive, like introducing full indoor-outdoor programming that completely restructured their day. Every step, no matter how big or small, has contributed to the thriving environment they have today.
However this not just about the children. The educators have embraced the Phoenix Cups framework® in their own lives, using it to reflect on their professional practice and personal wellbeing. We’ve heard staff say, “I have an empty Mastery Cup!” as they check in on their own needs because let’s face it, we can’t pour from empty cups. The biggest shift we have seen as Phoenix Facilitators supporting the team would have to be the team wellbeing. When we first stepped into Nido Trafalgar in 2023, the tension was palpable. Everyone was in survival mode. By 2024 that tension had dissipated – they were on the journey.
“We’re making progress, though there’s still a long way to go. Our culture feels more inclusive now, and more people are stepping up. We’re continuing to refine our team structures, looking at Educators Cups profiles and combining that with what we know about how people collaborate best.” – Jordyn, Executive Service Manager
Now yet another year behind us and we are proud to have had the honour of observing their journey that has created a culture that fosters autonomous motivation and today there is a sense of purpose, companionship, and shared understanding. One team member Sarah spoke of her renewed sense of purpose, fulfillment and enjoyment as an educator. Sarah explained how the companionship that she felt within the team and the shared understanding of human behaviour brought everyone to the same page.
"Oooh, I just love watching and listening to them. Sitting back a bit to see if they can sort out their own problems. They really can. But not so long ago the smallest things would have led to punching and children getting hurt." - Christy, Early Childhood Teacher
The Journey Continues
So, what’s next? Our partnership with Nido Trafalgar continues. Coaching and mentoring visits are still in place, and relationships with Allied Health and other support services are growing. This year, training is being extended to families, ensuring that the philosophy and strategies are shared with their wider community.
Because no journey ever truly ends. And this one? It’s only getting started.
So here’s to the journey, to the incredible educators at Nido Trafalgar, and to the future they are building. One child, one reflection, and one breakthrough at a time.