Children and staff at Columba Cottage were in birthday mode on February, 13, recognising a decade since the Centre first opened.

Columba Cottage at St Columba Anglican School started with humble beginnings, opening in 2009 with only one baby room and rapidly grown over the years.

Jenna Lindsay, assistant director at the Cottage said she has witnessed the expansion of the centre which now operates with over 40 members of staff during the week.

“It’s been a fantastic ten years at the Cottage with plenty of milestones to celebrate, such as the refurbishment of our outdoor learning spaces, introducing our Out of School Hours Care programme and an Allied Health room,” Ms Lindsay said.

Over the past ten years the Cottage has evolved and now offers one of the most unique pre-kinder programs in the Port Macquarie region.

“We offer a great transition to school program," she said.

"We are located on the grounds of St Columba Anglican School so we make plenty of visits to make the transition to Primary School a seamless and comfortable one."

Director of Columba Cottage, Susanna Christie, has seen the number of Centre graduates increase yearly and the birthday marks a milestone achievement.

“We graduate 60 to 70 Prekinders every year. Many of our children start with us in the Koala babies’ room and stay with us until graduation. It’s very special,” Ms Christie said.

As the Cottage celebrates the past ten years they continue to look forward to what the next few years will bring for the Centre.

“Moving into the future we want to continue to see happy families with children who are highly engaged in quality early childhood programs, and to continue to strengthen our partnerships within the community,” Ms Lindsay said.

While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox from the Port Macquarie News. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, SIGN UP HERE.