As more parents in Malta work full-time, the demand for trustworthy childcare that provides safety, fun, and quality early education has continued to rise. For many, this decision is based on more than convenience, but also takes into consideration finding a place where their little ones feel genuinely valued and nurtured. Over the last seven years, Dawra Durella has become a go-to for countless families, establishing itself as one of Malta’s leading childcare centres, now with locations in Naxxar, Attard, and Pembroke.

General Manager Dorianne Buhagiar, who has spent over a decade in various roles across childcare, oversees the daily operations, ensuring that Dawra Durella’s values and standards are maintained across each location. Reflecting on the centres’ success, she believes this is primarily rooted in a simple yet powerful approach of seeing each child as an individual.

Dawra Durella Childcare Centre, Pembroke

“Our carers ensure every child is seen as an individual, with their own unique needs and personalities,” Dorianne shares. “Parents trust us because they know we’re here to listen, to understand, and to genuinely care. We treat these children as if they were our own, and that makes a big difference.”

In fact, when the time comes for the children to move on, the parting is bittersweet. “Some of these kids have been with us for three years,” she adds. “It’s always hard to say goodbye, but it’s incredibly rewarding to see them move forward, happy and confident. We’re always proud to have played such an important role in their early development.”

Each Dawra Durella centre is purpose-built for childcare, ensuring every detail supports a child-friendly atmosphere. From the moment you walk in, the thoughtfully chosen colours and décor are chosen to instil a sense of warmth and comfort, while each area within the open plan is carefully designed for different activities, whether it’s sleeping, eating, music, play, and more. These open spaces encourage children to explore freely and spark creativity.

To keep children inspired, Dawra Durella regularly transforms its spaces. “We adapt the areas around our centres based on evolving themes and the children’s interests,” Dorianne explains. “One week, an area might be a hair salon, and the next, it’s a shop or a fire station. By changing the environment, we fuel their imagination and make learning an ongoing adventure.”

Dawra Durella Childcare Centre, Attard

This approach to creativity is part of Dawra Durella’s commitment to the Emergent Curriculum, a teaching philosophy that shapes activities around the evolving interests and developmental needs of each child. Children remain with the same carer throughout the year, allowing a personalised understanding of what inspires each child. “We observe what each child is drawn to, and we build on that,” says Dorianne. “If a child is interested in a specific activity, we use it as a springboard for skills they’re ready to learn next.”

In support of this growth, Dawra Durella creates portfolios for each child, documenting milestones, interests, and next developmental steps. “These portfolios serve as a guide for parents as well, helping them reinforce what their kids are learning here in ways they can try at home,” Dorianne adds. “It’s a collaborative process that keeps parents in the loop and builds on the themes we explore with the children each week.”

Naturally, in order to provide the highest quality care, Dawra Durella recognises the importance of recruiting and retaining the best carers. For the General Manager, finding the right fit extends beyond just qualifications, but finding carers who genuinely connect with children and whose values align with the centre’s.

Dawra Durella Childcare Centre, Naxxar

“We always invite potential recruits into the centre to see them in action with the kids,” she explains. “We observe how they interact and gauge if they’ll be a good fit with our team culture.” Once on board, new carers undergo a three-month training period with the centre manager and senior carers, allowing them to ease into the Dawra Durella approach.

Supporting staff development has also been key to maintaining quality. “We’re always happy to sponsor additional training or courses for our carers to advance their skills,” says Dorianne. Following initial orientation, the centre holds regular meetings where managers and carers discuss what’s working, where improvements could be made, and any additional training needs. “If a group needs expertise on a specific topic, we bring in guest speakers to address it.”

Dorianne Buhagiar, General Manager

Dorianne believes this inclusive approach, where everyone’s voice is heard, has fostered a cohesive team environment. “By continuously refining our practices together, we make sure everyone is heading in the same direction, which is ultimately for the children’s benefit.”

Likewise, the Dawra Durella team are also keen on creating an inclusive environment for parents, so they feel included and part of their child’s journey. Carers communicate with parents regularly, keeping them informed about their child’s progress and any emerging interests or challenges. “We want parents to feel they’re part of this experience,” says Dorianne. “Our team keeps a close eye on each child’s development, sharing moments parents might not witness firsthand.”

To deepen this connection, Dawra Durella also organises regular activities so parents can actively join in the fun. Twice a year, the centre hosts gatherings where parents get a firsthand look at their children’s interactions and play, strengthening the community feel. “When parents have concerns—especially those new to parenthood—we’re here to guide them,” Dorianne adds. “Our expertise is available to give them peace of mind, so they know they’re never alone.”

Dawra Durella is now setting its sights on offering parents greater flexibility through a 24/7 service, making it even easier for working families to find support whenever they need it. And as the centre grows, so does its commitment to building a true community with parents. “This isn’t just about babysitting,” notes Dorianne. “We want parents to feel engaged in their child’s development. So, if parents are eager to learn more about us, we invite them to reach out and learn more about Dawra Durella and our services.”