Kirby Barker

Meet Early Childhood Educator Kirby Barker. Well, actually Early Childhood Educator of the Year 2020 to be precise.

You needn’t spend long with her to realise she has one of the warmest, most joyful smiles and hearts you may ever encounter. Kirby is a proud Bandjalang woman doing many amazing things, one of them being dedicated to encouraging reconciliation, and bringing cultural joy into learning for young children. Her work has included creating programs such as the Bandjalang language program and Boogul Jugoon, a nature classroom, where children learn in a natural bush setting every fortnight.

Spending time with Kirby in her hometown, I was instantly struck by her warm presence and her connection to the community and the land. During our time together we talked about how she initially felt like she would never want to work with children, but quickly realised how naturally the role came to her, especially sharing the joy of Bandjalang language and traditional stories with the children and families, and broader community. When so many stories, traditions and languages have been lost, I couldn’t imagine the weight of responsibility that may be felt in keeping her peoples language and traditions alive but Kirby seems to carry this with lightness. However, she certainly doesn’t shy away from the big conversations, believing that it’s important to start teaching children the truth about our history from when they are young. To celebrate difference and teach kindness, love and respect always. Something most of us often forget as adults.

Get to know Kirby a little more below...

You mentioned your mother told you that you were always interested in and soaking up the culture and language from a young age – how does it feel to be passing that onto another generation of children?

It is such an important job to share the languages, stories and traditions that have been passed on for thousands of years. It’s a big responsibility, but I love it so much, and it comes so naturally. I am fortunate enough that my full time job allows me the time and space to do such significant work that I can work closely with my elders and share all of this rich knowledge first hand with the children, educators and families I work alongside of.

The work you do has had such a far-reaching impact on your community. What is some of your favourite, and maybe more unexpected, things that have come from your work?

What are your hopes for the future?

Who are the women who inspire you?

Oh I have so many! My Mum, My big sister Teela, my cousins and aunties. My director Allyson, Educational leader Cath and all the educators I work with at both Evans Head and Woodburn preschools who always support me and encourage me as an educator.