Making the KU Difference
KU Marcia Burgess Award
The KU Marcia Burgess award is a perpetual honour recognising an individual or a team who demonstrate a
strong commitment to vulnerable children and families, or children with additional needs. The award is given
in memory of the late Marcia Burgess.
Kerry Burke
Manager, Child Protection
Kerry Burke’s role as KU’s Child Protection Manager
requires a special commitment to the safety and
wellbeing of children, however Kerry’s passion for
vulnerable children and children’s rights extends far
beyond the expectations of her position.
Kerry builds trusting relationships with those she comes
into contact with, often in difficult circumstances,
resulting in fair outcomes for all. She never loses site of
the rights of children to feel safe and be protected by
adults.
Kerry is generous in sharing her knowledge and expertise,
and supporting staff and families to navigate a complex
and often confronting reporting system. We consistently
receive feedback regarding Kerry’s ability to conduct a
thorough, compassionate and fair investigative process,
and to provide positive and focused support. Kerry is
known and highly respected for her exceptional ability
to diffuse difficult situations.
KU was the first early childhood organisation in Australia to
employ a dedicated Child Protection Manager, and Kerry
has always embraced this commitment with true dedication
and an unwavering effort to support children’s rights. Today
Kerry is recognised as an expert in Child Protection and a
leader in the area of children’s wellbeing.
Through Kerry’s significant contribution as an advocate
for vulnerable children and families within KU services,
she is helping to ensure the legacy and memory of
Marcia Burgess’ work lives on.
In memory of Marcia Burgess
Marcia Burgess was an inspirational early childhood teacher who dedicated her entire
career of more than 50 years to KU, and ensuring that all children were able to access
high quality early childhood education and care.
Whilst Marcia took a quiet approach, it was none-the-less driven by her strong will
and determination. The results of her dreams, vision and advocacy for vulnerable
children, children with additional needs and families have become some of KU’s
greatest achievements.
Marcia retired from KU in October 2006 as the Manager, Special Education and
sadly passed away in June 2007.
She is recognised for her significant contribution to KU, the early childhood sector
and the lives of the thousands of children she touched.
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KU Children’s Services