Kim Whiteside is an early childhood teacher whose career has come full circle. After completing her studies in early childhood education, she began her teaching career in primary school settings. She later moved into middle years education, teaching students across Years 5–8 and undertaking a range of curriculum leadership roles.
In 2021, Kim returned to her early childhood roots when she joined Yalingbu Yirramboi- The Royal Children’s Hospital School Kindergarten. Since then, she has worked alongside young children and their families as they navigate serious illness, treatment, and extended hospital stays. Her work focuses on preserving childhood experiences, fostering connection and belonging, and creating responsive, play-based learning opportunities within a complex hospital environment.
Drawing on her experience across early childhood, primary, lower secondary, and curriculum leadership roles, Kim is passionate about advocating for the unique role of hospital kindergarten programs and sharing practical strategies that support children's wellbeing, participation, identity, and continued connection to learning during treatment.