Meet the
Bug-A-Lugs
team

In 2012, when Bug-A-Lugs Indoor Play Centre was facing closure, Jules stepped in with a clear purpose: to keep alive the joy her own family had experienced there. She became the proud owner in December of that year, and what began as a space for parties and casual play soon grew into something much more. By 2013, Bug-A-Lugs expanded to offer school-aged childcare in Kyneton and just a year later, the Outside School Hours Care Program in Woodend was launched. Based at Woodend Primary School, the program now supports children from four local schools for before and after school care, and up to sixteen schools during our popular holiday program. The COVID era brought its challenges, including the permanent closure of the original play centre. But this also marked a turning point. In 2022, Bug-A-Lugs Kyneton underwent a major internal and external renovation to transform the space into a more beautiful, welcoming, and comfortable environment—designed with children’s needs, growth, and happiness at its heart. Jules is a proud mother of six and grandmother of two and her commitment to children’s wellbeing is at the core of everything we do. For her, this work isn’t just a profession—it’s a calling. She’s deeply invested in helping every child grow, thrive, and feel valued. Under Jules’s leadership, Bug-A-Lugs has become more than a childcare service. It’s a warm, inclusive space with the most passionate educators, where children flourish, families connect, and community grows.

I’m thrilled to be part of the Bug-A-Lugs community Kindergarten program for 2026! Having had my son, Stuart, attend the OSHC program since 2021, and getting to know all the amazing educators as a result, it’s exciting to now be part of the family. I initially began my teaching career in Health, Physical Education and English at secondary schools in Darwin and Brisbane, before moving back to Victoria. I taught at Gisborne Montessori while completing further study, during which I spent time on placement in the Kindergarten rooms at Nido Early School in Woodend, and Goodstart here in Kyneton. Forming relationships with and planning learning experiences for the children made me realise I am just a big kid at heart, and I loved every minute of it. I then became the Prep, Grade 1 and Grade 2 teacher at Hepburn Primary School for 4 years. I am passionate about creating a nurturing, play-based environment that blends early learning with school-readiness. My focus is on helping every child feel confident, valued, and inspired to explore. Through curiosity, connection, and meaningful learning experiences, I aim to build strong foundations that prepare each child for a smooth and successful transition to school. Outside of teaching, I love spending time with my family, reading, baking, and caring for my ever-growing collection of houseplants - which I’m still learning to keep alive!