Chiselhurst, one of Toowoomba’s very first Kindergartens is celebrating a momentous milestone – 80 years young!

Rich in history and heart, Chiselhurst was founded in 1940 by Miss Anne Clark in response to the conditions children and families were facing during World War II. The kindy started with love and a determination to improve the outcomes for every child that came through its doors. Miss Clark strongly believed in kindergarten as the foundation for a successful school career and life – that the impressions and experiences gained in early years determined an individual’s entire set of values and shaped their future. It was about the heart as much as the mind. Miss Clark’s legacy of an unswerving commitment to children and education remains.

To commemorate 80 magical years of Chiselhurst, the kindergarten is calling upon families (past and present) and local businesses with a big heart to support their Legacy Tree Fundraiser. The community is invited to sponsor a laser engraved leaf, flower, apple, butterfly, or a major foundation piece of their Legacy Tree outdoor art mural. Each mural item with a personal message of support, family name or business logo. 2020 marks another special milestone.

Kindergarten Director Rosemarie Dawes is celebrating 20 years as an educator at Chiselhurst. Rosemarie is as passionate today, as she was on her first day of teaching and is committed to making a positive difference to children’s lives. “My role is to help instill a love of learning, encourage children to be curious and to aim for the moon,” Ms Dawes says. “The Legacy Tree is a beautiful reminder of our precious time here at kindy and will be admired for generations to come.”

Fundraising Coordinator Catherine Turnock said, Funds raised from the Legacy Tree will go towards the kindergarten’s Western Playground Rebuild Project. “Help us raise the much-needed funds, to ensure Chiselhurst Kindergarten continues to flourish.”

If you or your organisation are interested in sponsoring The Legacy Tree, please contact Chiselhurst Kindergarten on 07 46322044 or [email protected] by Friday 23 October 2020.

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