By Marcus Priaulx
Lavina and Jeffrey Dynevor surround themselves with the joy and love of children all day, every day.
At work they read to them, play games, paint, sing, dance, tell stories, listen to what the children have to say…
On the weekends they take groups of youngsters camping, fishing or to football, rodeo or whatever else is on.
The Cherbourg State School “Parents of the Month” for October also ensure their boys Triston, 11, and Blake, 5, go to class every day and become educated.
This comes after Lavina and Jeffrey failed to do well at school themselves but are now progressing through their studies to become teachers
They are each group leaders at the Gundoo Day Care Centre after doing certificates at TAFE.
Lavina has now completed her Diploma In Early Childhood and is studying at university; Jeffrey is about to do the same diploma.
However it took them some years to realise how important education is to providing them with a happier, fulfilling life.
Lavina left Murgon State High School in Year 10 to help care for her sisters but her mother ensured she read a lot of books.
“She knew the importance of education,” Lavina said.
Jeffrey finished Year 12 at the same school, went to class everyday but did not complete all his assessments.
On leaving he completed his painting apprenticeship before doing other various jobs.
Both he and Lavina came to Gundoo as volunteers three and five years ago respectively.
Lavina was then hired in 2007 and asked to do a traineeship; she is now a qualified trainer and assessor.
Jeffrey started three years ago and would like to see more men in the childcare industry.
“We can see our children grow up and put them on the right track,” he said.
“It doesn’t matter who it is; your son, your nephew… We need more positive role models.”
“And education,” he and Lavina chorused.
Now they have their qualifications they feel they are in the perfect job.
“We’re like part of the children’s family and that gives us a good feeling,” Jeffrey said.
“When they see us in the street they wave and a few run into our homes when they go past with their parents.
“It’s our way, part of our culture.”
Lavina said she and her husband loved children but urged all parents to ensure their youngsters became educated.
“Just send your children to school every day,” she said.
“Education is the key that opens the door to a big wide world. I never ever thought I’d be going to university but I am through education and the support of my family.
“I’ve seen the struggle of people; adults who can’t read. Education provides the skills that can lead to a happier life.
“It allows children to grow to be what they want to be.”
