Sandals Early Childhood Learning & Development Centre Hosts Inaugural Graduation

(Sandals Resorts)- Joy, pride and celebration filled the lush gardens of Sandals Halcyon Beach Resort as the Sandals Early Childhood Learning & Development Centre held its first-ever graduation and transition ceremony in the Mirage Conference Room. This milestone event honoured ten young graduates and marked a year of achievement, vision and community spirit.

Parents, educators and members of the Sandals executive team gathered in support of the young learners, whose bright smiles and beaming pride lit up the room. The event signified not just the completion of a chapter in early learning, but the establishment of a new legacy in early childhood education at Sandals Resorts.

Delivering the keynote address was Mr. Winston Anderson, managing director of Sandals Resorts International for the Eastern Caribbean, who played an instrumental role in the centre’s establishment.

“Standing here today, I am truly overwhelmed by how far the Sandals Early Childhood Learning & Development Centre has come in just one year,” said Mr. Anderson. “This pilot programme was born out of our deep commitment to the wellbeing of our team members and their families. In just twelve months, we have seen these young learners blossom. The sense of community we have built together is nothing short of inspiring.”

The Centre has quickly become a model for early childhood education in the region. With a focus on holistic development, the institution has introduced seasonal holiday camps, sports activities and meaningful cultural engagement, including participation in Saint Lucia’s Junior Jazz and Arts Festival and the Lantern Making Competition, all of which have helped shape students into confident, curious learners rooted in local culture.

Mrs. Lucy Lubrin-Girard, one of the Centre’s founding educators, shared her reflections on the journey.

“As with any new venture, the beginning came with its challenges. But our shared passion for nurturing young minds saw us through. Today, our graduates leave us with a love for learning, resilience and a strong foundation for the years ahead.”

The ceremony was also a moment for heartfelt reflections from parents, who shared their deep appreciation:

Melissa Charles explained “It feels like only yesterday that we brought our little one into the Centre, unsure of what to expect. The transformation we’ve witnessed is remarkable not just academically, but in their confidence and love of discovery.”

“As parents, knowing that our children are safe, cared for and actively learning gives us immense peace of mind. The opportunities they have had from participating in cultural festivals to making new friends have been extraordinary. We cannot wait to see what the future holds.” expressed Tara Lennard Emmanuel.

Annia Ellise-Haynes echoed those sentiments while expressing gratitude to the SECL&DC team “We want to thank the teachers for their patience, creativity and dedication. Our child comes home every day excited to share stories, songs and looks forward to school each morning. The Centre has become like a second home for our family.”

As the inaugural year comes to a close, the Sandals Early Childhood Learning & Development Centre stands as a beacon of excellence and innovation in early education. With plans to expand its programming and strengthen its curriculum, the Centre will continue to enrich the lives of young learners and their families.

This graduation marks more than an academic milestone it marks the beginning of a powerful legacy for early childhood education at Sandals Resorts and across the Eastern Caribbean.