Celebrating excellence: Asuka Kirby named Goodstart Educator of the Year

At Goodstart, we believe that our people are our greatest strength. Every day, across Australia, our educators create environments where children feel safe, loved and inspired to learn. 

This year, we are proud to celebrate Asuka Kirby, Senior Educator at Goodstart Toowoomba – Glenvale Road, who has been named the Goodstart National Educator of the Year at the 2025 Goodie Awards.

Asuka’s journey with Goodstart is a testament to what happens when passion meets purpose. For nearly a decade, she has woven her Japanese heritage, her love for art, and her deep commitment to inclusive education into the fabric of the Toowoomba community.

A classroom built for children, by children

Walking into Asuka’s pre-kindergarten room is like stepping into a living storybook. Unlike traditional setups, Asuka’s environments are created in partnership with the children. You won’t find 'set and forget' stations here; instead, the room evolves daily based on the children’s voices and interests.

Using recycled and upcycled materials, Asuka facilitates 4-5 active interest areas at any given time. These spaces are rich with child voice – featuring their artwork, props they’ve built themselves and photos of them in the middle of a discovery.

'Asuka intently listens to and observes children, uses teachable moments to extend their thinking in the moment, encourages them to research, explore, try new things, create, build friendships and to care for and show respect to each other,' says Jemma Lugert, Goodstart Coaching Lead for Regional QLD, who has worked closely with Asuka for over two years.

Innovation in the 'small world'

One of the standout projects that captured the judges’ hearts was a giant 'small world' representation of the local Toowoomba community. Spanning across the wall, it features children’s houses made from cardboard boxes, complete with family photos.

'Children still show their house and families on the wall, many months later,' notes Jemma. For children who find settling in a challenge, Asuka adapts with incredible empathy. For one child, this meant placing his family photos on a lanyard so he could keep his loved ones close to his heart while he explored his new environment.

Art as a gateway to connection

Asuka’s influence extends far beyond her own classroom. In 2024, she contributed as an illustrator for a published book and led impactful art workshops that have revolutionised how creativity is introduced at her centre.

'Art is powerful,' Asuka shares. 'It communicates, challenges and inspires. When we join children in the creative process, we foster meaningful connections and celebrate their individuality.'

By using techniques inspired by authors like Hervé Tullet, Asuka encourages large-scale collaborative art that ignites imaginations. It is this unique 'point of difference' that makes her such a vital part of the Goodstart family.

A culture of lifelong learning

Despite her years of experience, Asuka remains a student of the children. In 2025, she faced new challenges in supporting children’s inclusion, which she embraced as an opportunity for growth.

'She explained to me recently how these children have now changed her mindset and taught her so much,' Jemma shares. 'She has achieved this by reaching out for support, creating solid plans and devoting her time to ensuring that all children feel belonging.'

This commitment to constant improvement is what makes Goodstart a leader in early childhood education. We don’t just provide childcare; we provide a career path where educators like Asuka can truly shine, backed by a supportive network and a culture of 'test and learn'.

Join a team that celebrates you

Asuka Kirby’s story is just one of many at Goodstart. Whether it’s helping her centre become Regional Queensland Centre of the Year or mentoring new educators, Asuka exemplifies the high-quality practice we strive for every day.

If you are looking for a career with heart, where your unique culture and creativity are celebrated, Goodstart is the place for you.

Learn more about the 2025 National Goodie Award winners here.