Learning centre to host market stalls

STAFF at Goodstart Early Learning in Mount Helen will open their doors to the community as part of a pop-up market day early next month.

Assistant director Deanne Edwards and said it’ll be a fun way to engage with the community.

“It’ll be like an open day to let people know we’re here and to come meet the staff but also bringing something that’ll attract them in,” she said.

“I’ve been here for 13 years and I remember the last time we had a market was nearly eight years ago. It was very successful, a lot of people came through the door.

“Back then it was to really involve the community and since there’s so many childcare centres now, this is a reminder we’re still here.”

Thirteen stallholders are confirmed which will include a sausage sizzle from Buninyong Lions Club, and Sebastopol’s Mia and Talbot Candles and Gifts, all of whom will be set up at the centre’s courtyard.

The event will be coordinated by 15 of the centre’s 20 staff members, who currently cater for about 80 children.

Ms Edwards said the market day will also provide fun for the kids.

“We’ll have activities inside for the children, things like biscuit-making, an arts and craft setup and a petting zoo,” she said.

“This is also good because if parents have any questions we’re available, and it’ll be good for them to know our faces too.

“We’ll have a setup at the front to showcase who we are and what we do.”

With a capacity for 16 stallholders, anyone interested in filling a space can call or email the centre.

The market day will run from 9.30am to 12.30am on Sunday, 9 July.