Making news this fortnight...

Ensuring First Nations children are school ready

The Australian Government is working with First Nations communities to ensure children are ready for school. The Connected Beginnings program will support 16,400 First Nations children in meeting the learning and development milestones necessary to achieve a positive transition to school. Learn more.

AJEC special issue on leadership in ECEC

This special issue of Australasian Journal of Early Childhood (AJEC) provides an opportunity to explore and investigate the nature of quality leadership in the ECEC sector. AJEC is inviting conceptual papers that critique and theorise leadership strategies, approaches and practices. Read more here.

Survey results to help shape future of education

Nearly 25,000 teachers, parents, guardians and students have taken part in a national survey to help shape a better and fairer education system. The survey responses are being considered by the Expert Panel review into the next National School Reform Agreement (NSRA). Explore more.

Early Learning Matters Week concludes

ECA has concluded national Early Learning Matters Week celebrations at Parliament House in Canberra. The event showcased the theme for Early Learning Matters Week 2023—learning through connection—and officially launched the Parliamentary Friends of Early Childhood for the 47th Parliament. Read more.

New guide to belonging and connectedness in ECEC

ECA, in collaboration with the Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO), has launched a practice guide focused on nurturing a sense of belonging and connectedness in ECEC. The guide explores evidence-based strategies for authentic connections, culturally safe environments, and empowering children’s agency. Learn more.

ECA responds to former educator’s charges

Early Childhood Australia (ECA) has released a statement responding to reports of a former educator who has been charged with offences against children. Read through the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) policy on providing a child safe environment. View ECA's statement.

Upcoming calendar days

Explore relevant upcoming calendar dates to consider acknowledging in your service: Red Nose Day (11 August); National Science Week (12–20 August); Book Week (19–25 August); Daffodil Day (31 August).

Reconciliation in Children’s Education and Care: Taking the first steps

This course is suitable for all educators looking to build their confidence in taking the first steps or next steps in embedding reconciliation in an approved education and care setting. This is a foundation course for educators new to the sector or embarking on a formal early childhood qualification. Sign up here.

Child Safe Organisations

This Everyday Learning Series title unpacks each of the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations with real-world examples to show the application of principles within early childhood education and care practice. Purchase your copy today.

Building capacity to thrive

Explore practical approaches for building resilient, inclusive and thriving learning communities. Watch the Be You Virtual Conference 2023 recordings now available on the Be You website.

New on The Spoke

Discover the impact of 'professional love' in early childhood education through emotional connections. This article explores the transformative power of nurturing relationships between educators and children, and how they foster a supportive and enriching learning environment that shapes young minds with love and care. Read here.

Meet our international virtual keynote speaker

Joining us virtually, Richard Louv will be an international keynote speaker at the 2023 ECA National Conference. Richard Louv speaks worldwide on nature-deficit disorder, the importance of children’s exposure to nature for their health, and the need for environmental protection. Book your ticket now!

First Year at School

Starting school is an important milestone for both parents and children. Add the First Year at School guidebook to your toolbox to break down those challenges and expectations of starting school, and start the year feeling prepared. Shop now.