Jobs at JAG: Staff Spotlight on Alannah

At Junior Adventures Group, our focus is nurturing the potential of children in our care across Australia. We also believe in making a lasting positive impact in the communities where we live and work.

We couldn’t do this without our incredible staff, like our amazing Coordinators. In this Staff Spotlight, we spoke with OSHClub Coordinator, Alannah Vella in NSW. With several years of experience working in outside school hours care, we asked Alannah why she loves working in the industry and what makes the Coordinator role in our services so special.

How would you describe your role as a Coordinator?

My role as a Coordinator at OSHClub is a wonderful blend of playing with kids and helping them learn, while managing the daily operations of our service. So, I would say there’s a really nice balance there between fun interactions with kids and creating a great environment.

Why did you join OSHClub?

It all started with a passion of working with kids, which was nurtured by my upbringing in a large family. Discovering this role felt like stumbling upon something perfect for me. From the moment I stepped into my trial shift, I loved it and have been working pretty much 5 days a week for the last 2 years! Even during our two-week breaks, I find myself missing the kids and missed being back with my team.

What are some memorable moments working at OSHClub?

I’d say going on excursions because you get to see the kids in action, having fun outside of school. It’s also great to see our staff unleash our inner child at these excursions too. Whether it's bouncing around at the trampoline park or experiencing the funny sight of first-time bowlers at the bowling alley, these moments of growth and laughter are priceless.

What are some skills you have learnt/refined from working at OSHClub?

Working at OSHClub has really honed my organisational skills, ensuring I remain on top of my tasks and meet deadlines effectively. Additionally, I have learnt and subsequently improved on my communication skills with parents and refined my abilities in behavioural management in children.

Managing a diverse team is another essential skill I have picked up since working at OSHClub. It has allowed me to recognise and support the development of each team member’s unique strengths to then create a collaborative environment where everyone shines and passes on their knowledge to others.

Describe your job in 3 words.

Fun, dynamic and fulfilling.

What you're doing as a Coordinator at OSHClub is a positive thing. When parents come up to you and say, "Thank you so much, my child had the best time," I find that really rewarding.

What is one piece of advice you would give someone who is contemplating on joining OSHClub?

Definitely do it! My experience from my trial shift onwards has been nothing short of amazing. Working with children is endlessly entertaining, they say and do the funniest things. In their eyes, you’re almost like a super hero. Sometimes, things do get a bit challenging, but that’s also a great part of the job. You learn to become more resilient. The other great part of working in OSHC is your team – after all they become like family as you see them every day and work very closely with them. The opportunities for both personal and career growth are exciting too.

Finally, if you could have one superpower, what would it be?

Time-travelling would be awesome. Reliving some cherished memories and glimpsing into the future to see what future me is up to sounds like an incredible adventure!

Would you like to work with us?

If you’re interested in working in the outside school hours care industry, we’d love to hear from you.

Visit our careers web page and discover the latest roles available in our services.