Valerie Hume has been recognised for her devotion, commitment and excellence in early childhood education and care in the 2025 Excellence in Family Day Care Awards.
Now in its fourteenth year, the Excellence in Family Day Care Awards celebrates the vital role of family day care and the unique benefits that make it the preferred choice of education and care for more than 50,000 Australian families.
The national program is the only one of its kind dedicated to family day care, recognising family day care educators who combine small business ownership with their dedication to supporting children’s learning and development in a natural home-based environment.
This year, Valerie Hume, who is registered with Armidale and District Family Day Care, has been announced as the winner of the Tamworth & North West Region Educator Award.
Family Day Care Australia Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Paterson, congratulated Valerie on this achievement:
“Educators like Valerie demonstrate an incredible level of dedication and care that makes family day care such a valued choice for families. Her commitment to providing a nurturing and enriching early learning environment reflects the very best of what family day care has to offer.”
Each year, the Excellence in Family Day Care Awards shine a spotlight on the vital role family day care educators play in the lives of more than 71,000 children across the country.
“This year, we received close to 5,000 nominations from families, services, and community members. This overwhelming response shows the importance of family day care and the impact it has on children and families across Australia,” said Mr Paterson.
As a Regional Award Winner, Valerie is now in the running to be named a National Finalist for the 2025 Educator of the Year Award.
“I am very proud of my Family Day Care service and am thrilled to be recognised for what is my passion,” said Val.
“Having been an educator for going on 22 years, I’ve been so fortunate to have helped so many children learn and grow and become confident little individuals who can do anything they set their minds to.”
To view the full list of winners, visit www.familydaycare.com.au/awards/winners.
Four National Educator Finalists will be announced on 16 September 2025, with FDCA’s Educator of the Year Winner being announced on 25 October at the FDCA 2025 National Conference Gala Dinner in Melbourne.
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