Early childhood professionals have been using the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF) since it was introduced in 2009. A commitment to critical reflection and continuous improvement resulted in a comprehensive review of the document in 2016. This seminar supports teachers and educators to continue their in-depth learning and discussion about the VEYLDF.

This seminar will assist you to engage more deeply with the VEYLDF through exploring and understanding the refinements that were made to the VEYLDF in 2016. Content will include:

• a summary of the key changes
• the refined vision
• the explicit links between ‘learning and development’ and ‘health and wellbeing’
• the ways in which children’s learning is shaped by their family, culture and experience
• recognition of Aboriginal cultures and their unique place in Victoria’s heritage and future
• repositioning of the Practice Principles to strengthen the professional learning culture
• the impact on children’s learning and development of family functioning, including significant adversity and hardship, domestic and family violence, trauma and loss
• the importance of high expectations for every child regardless of circumstances
• the links between assessment knowledge and practice, including children’s perspectives on their own learning
• the learning opportunities that occur within everyday routines.

ABOUT THE PRESENTER
Heather Barnes works as an early childhood consultant throughout Australia. Heather’s career has included teaching in kindergartens, higher education and TAFE, and working for the National Childcare Accreditation Council, local government and Gowrie Carlton. She currently presents at conferences, delivers workshops and provides mentoring for individual services. Heather was involved in the original training of Assessors and assisted Regulatory Authorities in several states and territories as part of the National Quality Framework. She is a Life Member of Gowrie Victoria; a member of the Victorian Children’s Council and was awarded an Order of Australia Medal in 2015 for services to early childhood education.

To find out more, download the training brochure here