Qualities of a Great Leader
See why Sandra D’Rozario is so successful as an Educational Leader at Goodstart.
BY HEJIRA CONVERY, KINDICARE
It’s often said that great leaders listen more than they speak, and although this is true, being an active listener isn’t the only thing that will make you a successful leader in the early learning setting.
Great Educational Leaders possess a whole range of qualities to ensure a positive and productive workplace environment, and Sandra D’Rozario is one person you can definitely take inspiration from!
Sandra is Assistant Director at Goodstart Early Learning Canning Vale – Batman Road, and as well as playing a key role in the service’s 2023 KindiCare Excellence Award win, she was also named joint Educational Leader of the Year at the 2023 Goodies Awards.
Sandra D'Rozario (second on the right) with fellow Educational Leader of the Year winner, Demee Mumford from Goodstart Early Learning Doncaster East (second on the left)
These two accolades are a testament to Sandra's character and commitment, and although she possesses many amazing qualities, here are seven things that make Sandra an inspiring, and highly successful, Educational Leader:
1. Passion
Sandra has worked at Goodstart Batman Road for 15 years, first as a Teacher and then as Assistant Director, and she is someone who genuinely loves what she does.
Sandra is passionate about providing high-quality education and care for the ‘little citizens’ at her service, and she encourages this same passion in her team by setting high standards for everyone, leading by example and showing real commitment to excellence, equity and innovation.
2. Patience
Sandra is a very driven and goal-focused person, but she understands that some changes take time, and patience really is a virtue.
Sandra knows that becoming a great leader requires work and it isn't something that happens overnight, so she tries not to be frustrated when progress is slow or challenges pop up to push her goals back.
Instead, Sandra keeps things in perspective and looks for the best path forward, whether that means carefully mentoring staff to learn and grow, or making small improvements at her service that lead to transformational change.
3. Positivity
Sandra also makes a big effort to look on the bright side, and her positive attitude helps her to achieve goals, solve problems and build the relationships that make her centre, “A place of joy and fulfilment rather than mundane routine.”
As part of this, Sandra celebrates small wins with her team, which is great for everyone’s morale; and instead of taking feedback personally, she’s open to it and genuinely welcomes the chance to hear different viewpoints and think critically.
4. Collaborativeness
Sandra is an approachable Assistant Director who knows that collaboration leads to success.
She works closely with Centre Director, Kenneth Leong, to achieve great things for Goodstart Batman Road; and instead of just telling her team what to do, Sandra encourages their input and helps each person to feel valued, respected and supported.
Sandra says, “I focus on building a culture of trust and collaboration through guidance, consensus building and active listening;” and everyone is encouraged to speak up during staff meetings, sharing their views and making decisions together - always with the children’s best interests at heart.
5. Empathy
Soft skills have an important place in management, and Sandra leads her team with empathy and is careful not to make assumptions.
Instead, she listens closely to what each team member is telling her, and takes the time to truly understand their strengths, concerns and challenges, so she can help them grow and develop their skills.
6. Flexibility
Every early learning day is different, and life doesn’t always go to plan, so Sandra tries to remain flexible as a leader.
When challenges arise, she looks for ways to overcome each problem by thinking differently; and she’s the first to admit that leadership is not about being perfect.
Instead, she believes that great leaders are accountable and adaptable, and says, “I acknowledge and learn from my mistakes, and I take corrective actions when necessary.”
7. Studiousness
Educational Leaders need sound pedagogical knowledge, and instead of sticking with what she knows, Sandra is dedicated to continuous learning.
She seeks out opportunities to improve her knowledge, skills and attitudes, and says, “I am always open to new opportunities and challenges that can help me grow.”
At the start of her leadership journey, Sandra attended workshops, webinars, mentoring sessions and networking opportunities offered by Goodstart.
She says, “These helped to develop my coaching, mentoring, team-building, delegation and leadership skills;” and now that Sandra is an experienced leader, she continues to expand her knowledge by reading about topics like conflict resolution, communication, negotiation and decision-making.
All in all, Sandra has many qualities that help her to lead in a successful way.
She is someone who can turn values into action, vision into reality, obstacles into stepping stones, and challenges into opportunities!
Sandra is a great role model for anyone wanting to excel as an Educational leader, and if you’re keen to pursue a leadership role at Goodstart Early Learning, you can search for amazing opportunities in KindiCare Jobs on the KindiCare app or website.
