17 NovConsultation is key to transforming early childhood education
ELAA welcomed yesterday’s release of Transforming early childhood education together: What we heard, What we’re doing by the Victorian Minister for Children and Disability, Lizzie Blandthorn.
“We welcome the government’s report on the outcomes of its consultation with early childhood education stakeholders including families, teachers and educators, service providers, peak bodies, unions and others,” said ELAA Interim CEO, Terri Smith.
“The government’s $14 Billion investment in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) through the Best Start, Best Life reform agenda is a significant reform but its ultimate success will depend on ongoing engagement with early childhood education stakeholders.”
The Transforming early childhood education together report underlines the importance of universal access to two years of play-based early childhood education to the development of children while also acknowledging the importance of high-quality programs.
“Equal access to high quality services is crucial to maximising the impact of early childhood education and it is reassuring to read that the government is keeping that ‘top of mind’ when it comes to rolling out the reforms,” added Ms Smith.
The report also acknowledges the importance of valuing, growing, and developing Victoria’s early childhood education and care workforce. “At ELAA our members are excited about the opportunity to provide extended education but are also mindful that this will place further demands on an already stretched workforce. We are pleased to hear that government is aware of this and committed to working with us to support the further development of the ECEC workforce.”
ELAA is also pleased that the Report recognises that the success of the Reforms hinges on the continued expansion of early childhood education infrastructure across Victoria, although Ms Smith noted “we need to be vigilant about ensuring new services are built where they are most needed, especially in rural and regional areas where ‘childcare deserts’ are more prevalent”.
“Earlier this year, ELAA worked with the Victorian Department of Education to host a series of forums to consult with ELAA member service providers on the shape and direction of the Best Start, Bes Life Reforms and we look forward to continuing this working partnership with the government, our members, and the wider ECEC sector.”
To arrange an interview with Interim CEO, Terri Smith, please contact ELAA’s Communications and Marketing Specialist, James Gardener, at jgardener@elaa.org.au or 0413483182.
ENDS
ELAA is the national peak body for not-for-profit providers of early childhood education and care. Our vision is Excellence and Equity in Early Childhood Education and Care. www.elaa.org.au
