Supporting the Holiday Juggle with Ambrose Vacation Care
School holidays are often a time of relaxation, but they also bring unique challenges for families as they juggle work and caregiving responsibilities. Many families within the Diocese turn to Vacation Care offered by Ambrose, for support.
The success of Ambrose Vacation Care is largely due to its dedicated and compassionate staff, who function like an extended family. They are deeply committed to understanding each child and invest significant time in developing engaging and diverse programs that incorporate the children’s interests.
Ambrose Area Coordinator Fionn Byrne explains, “We’ve had visits from the Royal Flying Doctors Service with a life-sized plane, aquariums with live marine animals, dinosaur visits, reptile encounters, mini golf and cinema excursions, music and magic days, coding, baking, sports and more”.
“These activities are both fun and educational, offering children the chance to explore new interests and hobbies. Often community-based, they help children connect with their surroundings and foster a sense of belonging.”
Acknowledging the financial burden holiday activities can impose on families, Fionn adds, “Ambrose Vacation Care services are Child Care Subsidy approved, potentially reducing fees by up to 90% for eligible families.”
Ambrose Senior Manager of School Age Care Mabel Osei explains Ambrose Vacation Care services provide a safe and nurturing environment for children, allowing them to thrive, explore, and develop essential life skills. “The programs go beyond mere entertainment; they offer countless opportunities for personal growth. Children can form meaningful social connections with new friends and gain a variety of experiences. The programs cultivate independence, encourage learning, promote physical activity, and nurtures creativity.”
“This is a structured environment where children of varying ages can make friends and develop social skills. This is particularly beneficial for those entering Kindergarten as it helps them build confidence and form new friendships before starting big school.”
Working parents at St Angela’s Castle Hill appreciate the support:
“I love the excursions and activities. It benefits me as I can focus on my work.” Another parent shared, “We both were working so it helped us to have care provided for him.”
Joshua Wood, Service Coordinator at Ambrose School Age Care Chisholm, Bligh Park, enjoys working in the vacation care program, sharing, “It’s always exciting to see familiar faces, build new friendships, and create memorable experiences together.”
So what do the children think? They love Ambrose Vacation Care for a range of reasons:
“Talking to educators” – Stella
“The activities” – Josephine
“Making friends with the Santa Sophia kids and playing basketball” – Matteo
“I love it when I can go to places and do stuff. I love it when people come and do stuff with us.” – Erica
“I love the surprise when someone comes and does stuff” – Ayen
We would love you to join us at our next Vacation Care!
Check out our amazing programs here www.ambrose.org.au/vacation-care