Childcare workers are in demand for a new Stonewall-based facility set to open soon.
The provincial government provided a grant to develop 74 new childcare spaces in a new childcare centre, in partnership with the Town of Stonewall and JohnQ Public Inc./JQ Built Inc.
Starting Blocks Inc. will be operating the new centre, which has space for up to 20 infants and 54 preschoolers.
“These spaces have not been filled yet. We will start making calls once we are ready to open,” said Starting Blocks director Nicole Kibsey.
“We do not have a confirmed date to open just yet. We recently got possession of the building and now need to set up, clean and complete licensing protocols with the province, which include fire and health inspections. Once that is all complete and we are ready to go, we will start making calls to fill spaces.”
Starting Blocks is looking to hire workers with Early Childhood Educator (ECE) Level 2 and Level 3 designations, as well as childcare assistants.
“To be an ECE 2, you need to have completed a recognized Early Childhood Education program and obtained a diploma,” Kibsey said.
“Childcare assistants are required to complete one 40-hour course within one year of employment. We help our staff with making arrangements to take this 40-hour course.”
Kibsey also shared some of the highlights of the new prefabricated hybrid building, which is located at the Veterans Memorial Sports Complex grounds.
“The building has lots of natural light, and each program has access to the outdoor play spaces. The rooms are all bright and open concept. There are washrooms for the children and small prep areas in each,” she said.
“We are very excited to get the centre open, having children enjoy this great space. We look forward to the relationships we will be making with all the new families.”
Anyone who would like to submit a resumé or add their family to the waitlist for a daycare space can email Nicole Kibsey at startingblocks@mymts.net
Tribune photos by Lana Meier
Starting Blocks Inc. staff have been hard at work setting up and cleaning their new centre which has space for 74 children. The bathrooms, lockers, change tables and work space have all been made child size
