A Little About Us
The Glen Cairn Co-operative Preschool was conceived in 1968 for a thriving young community by educator and resident Angela Kilby. With help from neighbourhood families, fund-raising was initiated, equipment was built, and toys and books were donated to start the preschool. In September of 1969, the doors opened for a school completely run by parent volunteers. The school is now located in the downstairs of the Glen Cairn Community Centre, adjacent to Glen Cairn Middle School.
GCCP, as it is affectionately known, has been a place for young children to thrive ever since. Long time educators have worked with generations of families, with many GCCP graduates bringing their own children to the school. All children and all families are all welcome here!
Our goal is to broaden each child's learning experience through play, music, art and sensory, and friendships. Children learn to co-operate with others, make friends, understand differences, share thoughts and toys, and take pride in their own accomplishments. Attending preschool can ease the transition to Kindergarten. Our teachers are patient and accommodating with students and parents dealing with the challenges of separation anxiety, language or other learning difficulties, and various special needs.
As a co-operative, the school excels because of the participation and enthusiastic support of our members. Depending on parents' own interests, skills, and abilities, participation can take the form of making playdoh or bringing snacks, participating on our Board of Directors, or volunteering to help on school field trips. You and your child will find a place to belong at GCCP!
Early Childhood Educators
Meet our kind, caring, and creative teaching team, Ainslie and Ashley
Ashley
Hello everyone, I'm Ashley!
I’m a Registered Early Childhood Educator here at the preschool and a Glen Cairn Community Member. I’m a proud Mom to an amazing daughter and a wild bulldog. We love spending time going on adventures and staying active outdoors.
Like Ainslie, I first came across the GCCP as a parent looking for ways to prepare both my daughter and myself for the upcoming start of kindergarten. So I truly understand the important role GCCP plays in children’s lives.
Professionally, I made the switch to Early Childhood Education as a career about 5 years ago ( before that I was in Office Administration and Group Fitness) and absolutely adore it!
I love how we have created an atmosphere at GCCP that encourages and facilitates children to explore, make friendships, get creative and express themselves their way each day :)
Ainslie
My name is Ainslie and I am a registered early childhood educator with over 20 years of teaching experience. I first found my way to the Glen Cairn cooperative preschool as a parent. Years later, I still remember our tour and how warm and welcoming the educators were… and the feeling that we were right where we belonged. It is my hope that you will find the co-op a warm and welcoming place for your child to grow as well.
These first school experiences are so important and I feel fortunate to be part of it.
I believe in creating an inclusive environment and meeting each child exactly where they are.
I am passionate about play-based learning and I look forward to getting to know our child!
In my personal life, I have a wonderful husband of 17 years and counting. I am a proud mom of two wonderful school-age children (and one sweet black cat.) I love to get creative in my spare time and I love to bring my creativity to the classroom whenever I can!