Growing Through Leadership: Teagan

Change can be unexpected, but it can also bring new possibilities. For Teagan Clarke, the transition to Story House Early Learning was an opportunity to grow, learn, and step into leadership in a way she never imagined. Now in her role as 2IC at SHEL Bligh Park, she reflects on her journey, the support she has received, and what she has learned along the way.

Embracing Change and Finding Opportunity

Teagan’s journey with Story House began in an unexpected way—through an acquisition. When her previous provider sold, her service became part of the Story House family. While the change was initially a surprise, it quickly became clear that it was a fortunate turn of events for the team, children, and families.

“The love and care Story House has for their services and all those within them shows. We have so much access to professionals, training, development, and resources that really equip us in ways I have yet to see in other services or employers in my experience in early childhood education so far.” Teagan.

For Teagan, going above and beyond has always come naturally. She progressed into Room Leader roles early in her career and felt most fulfilled when leading and supporting others. Her passion for pedagogy and programming led her to take on the Educational Leader position, where she became part of the Service Leadership Team.

Stepping Into Leadership

When the 2IC role became available, Teagan had already been stepping in to support the Service Manager, Zoe, and found herself naturally taking on many of the responsibilities. Applying for the position felt like the right next step, an opportunity to grow, learn, and contribute in new ways.

“I felt as though they could see my potential, and I was excited to see where this next step would take me. The effort I had put into supporting and learning was being recognised and rewarded.”

Her promotion was met with enthusiasm from her team and the wider centre community. It was a milestone worth celebrating, made even more special when her husband received a promotion in the same week. The couple marked the occasion with an impromptu child-free city staycation in Darling Harbour, where Teagan treated herself to fancy new stationery for her new role, a small but meaningful symbol of the exciting journey ahead.

Support, Growth, and Lifelong Learning

Teagan’s leadership development has been shaped by Story House’s Inspiring Leaders Program, which provided her with regular check-ins, meetings, and unlimited guidance from Amanda, who runs the program. The Support Office team played a crucial role, in answering questions, organising training sessions, and ensuring access to a wide range of professional development courses in the SHEL Library.

Beyond formal training, Teagan has benefited from mentorship and support from a network of early childhood professionals in areas such as pedagogy, behaviour, and compliance. This wealth of expertise has helped her grow in confidence and capability as a leader.

A New Perspective on Leadership

Taking on the 2IC role has given Teagan a broader view of the service and its community. Floating across rooms has allowed her to connect with educators, children, and families in meaningful ways, deepening her understanding of their daily experiences.

Leadership, however, comes with challenges. Moving from leading a small team to overseeing an entire service required her to adjust her approach. Learning how to support, guide, and motivate a diverse team while balancing daily operations has been both demanding and rewarding, strengthening her ability to lead effectively.