29 MarELAA speaks at Sparkways annual conference
Last week, Sparkways hosted their annual Staff Conference for over 400 members of their teaching team and employees. The theme of the day was ‘Respect and Reconciliation’ and was hosted at the Lakeside Banquet and Convention Centre.
The day consisted of two professional development breakout sessions. These were operated by Reconciliation Australia, VAEAI (Victorian Aboriginal Education Association Inc), and ECO Learning Network. The focus of connecting children’s learning to the land, animals and waters and incorporating culturally safe practises were benefited by the interactive and reflective nature of each session.
ELAA’s Director of Advocacy and Member Solutions, Megan O’Connell, gave a Sector Update to the attendees. Megan discussed State and Federal Government investment into the Early Years, how ELAA is advocating for and supporting the workforce, and the importance of quality Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC). Megan’s presentation included a review of the current state of the ECEC sector, where it is projected to go, and what can be achieved through ELAA’s advocacy and support of the sector.
