Close community, nature, and family life for educators in Tasmania

Tasmania offers career progression and an abundant lifestyle for early childhood educators. 

Kadie Cunningham of Goodstart Kings Meadows, who is now an assistant director, chose to move back to Tassie for all these reasons and more. Her young son even attends the centre she works at.

Here, Kadie shares her journey in early childhood education and care, including relocating to Queensland and back, and her love for Tasmania, from Launceston to Westbury.

Launceston on the Tamar River - this region offers educators an abundant life and prosperous career

When Kadie Cunningham returned home to Tasmania after several years away, she knew she wanted to balance her career, family and lifestyle in a place that felt supportive and connected. 

Just seven months into her role at Goodstart Kings Meadows, she's already embraced the best of both worlds: professional growth as an Assistant Director and the reassurance of having her youngest child enrolled right where she works.

Kadie's story is a reflection of what makes regional Tasmania such a desirable location to live, work and raise a family. 

With beautiful natural landscapes, a welcoming community and career pathways that make a difference, Kadie says she's found the right place to belong.

Building a career in early learning

Kadie began her early learning career in Queensland in 2015, after completing her Certificate III through a rural TAFE program. 

Her placement at Goodstart Dalby turned into casual work, then full-time, before she stepped into a room leader role in the senior kindergarten room.

After a move took her away from Dalby, Kadie gained experience with other providers before finding her way back to Goodstart - this time in Kings Meadows, Launceston. 

Kadie Cunningham, of Goodstart Kings Meadows, Launceston, moved back to Tassie - and hasn't looked back

She started in January 2024 as Lead Educator in Learning Space 1 (LS1), and quickly stepped into leadership as Assistant Director in July. 

Today, Kadie balances the AD role with leading Learning Space 2 (Toddlers).

'It can be challenging at times,' she admits, 'but I have a fantastic team who can step in and manage the room when I'm needed in the office. The support makes all the difference.'

Life in Kings Meadows and beyond

Originally from Westbury, Kadie spent her teenage years in Tasmania before moving interstate. Returning home in 2023 felt like the right choice: 'I moved back for the environment, the community, and to be closer to family,' she says.

While Kadie lives 30 minutes from Launceston, she describes Kings Meadows as having 'everything you need in one place.'

The local plaza shopping centre, family activities such as ten-pin bowling and escape rooms, and a variety of dining options make the suburb a lively hub. 

Beyond that, towns like Longford offer rich heritage buildings, river walks, and cosy cafés.

For outdoor lovers, Kadie highlights Liffey Falls as a must-visit destination, with its lush hiking trails and cascading waterfalls, and recommends scenic drives through the Great Lakes region. 

For outdoor lovers, Kadie highlights Liffey Falls as a must-visit destination, with its lush hiking trails and cascading waterfalls

Launceston and surrounds have a lot to offer, including the iconic Cataract Gorge Reserve

Closer to town, Launceston itself is filled with history and charm - from City Park's resident monkeys to the iconic Cataract Gorge Reserve.

'Kings Meadows really has the best of both worlds,' Kadie explains. 'You've got nature, history, and adventure on your doorstep, and at the same time, all the convenience of a vibrant local community.'

A family-friendly workplace

One of Kadie's favourite parts of her role is being able to have her son enrolled at the Kings Meadows centre. 

'It can be a little tricky at times, especially when he sees me and gets upset,' she says, 'but the team is amazing in supporting both of us. I love knowing the educators looking after him, not just as colleagues but as trusted carers.'

Goodstart has also been flexible with Kadie's shifts, supporting her in balancing work with her family's needs, school events, and appointments.

'The support here is unlike anything I've had with other companies,' Kadie says. 

'We have a state performance lead who checks in regularly, a centre coach who visits weekly, and a practice support person helping us lift our centre every day. Even our state manager, Jess, has visited. It really makes us feel seen and valued.'

Goodstart is flexible with Kadie's shifts, supporting her in balancing work with her family's needs, school events, and appointments

Growing with Goodstart

Kadie's recent promotion to Assistant Director has opened up new opportunities for learning and growth. 

With dedicated coaching, in-person training sessions and the encouragement of her Centre Director, Anika, she's developing the skills to one day step into a Centre Director position herself.

'Anika is incredible,' Kadie says. 'She understands the juggle of work and family life and always makes me feel appreciated, even when things are stressful. 

'Her kindness and support motivate me to do my best.'

Working for a not-for-profit organisation also resonates deeply with Kadie. 

'It means the money goes back into our centres, our teams and the children - not into private pockets. That really matters to me.'

An amazing untapped opportunity for early learning professionals

For Kadie, the combination of Tasmania's lifestyle and Goodstart's support has created the perfect balance. 

She loves the strong sense of community, the natural beauty of the region, and the way Goodstart invests in its people and families.

'Every child and family here is treated with patience and compassion. Concerns are always listened to, no matter how small, and children are supported based on understanding, not labels. That's what makes this such a special place to work.'

For those considering a move to regional Tasmania to advance their early learning career, Kadie has a clear message: 'It's a beautiful place to live, and Goodstart gives you the tools, support and community to really thrive. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else.'

Thinking about your next career move? We need educators in Tasmania and regional Victoria - and could offer the lifestyle change you've been looking for.