EYL Networx

EYL Networx EYL Networx is a fellowship of Early years leaders to network and share knowledge on all things ECEC

11/03/2026

WOW. We did not expect that response! 🥳

Thank you to everyone who commented, shared and reached out — it's clear this is exactly what our community needed.

So we're making it even easier — here's the direct link to download your free copy of Issue 1 of The Director's Brief. Just click, download and save it somewhere handy. 📎

And if you haven't already — comment below and we'll add you to our free list so you never miss a future issue, resource or update from Networx. All free. Always. 💛

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DwxZCluZ82MLn1rCFmUXrfJSyEWK3MRV/view?usp=sharing

WOW. We did not expect that response! 🥳Thank you to everyone who commented, shared and reached out — it's clear this is ...
10/03/2026

WOW. We did not expect that response! 🥳

Thank you to everyone who commented, shared and reached out — it's clear this is exactly what our community needed.

So we're making it even easier — here's the direct link to download your free copy of Issue 1 of The Director's Brief. Just click, download and save it somewhere handy. 📎

➡️ https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DwxZCluZ82MLn1rCFmUXrfJSyEWK3MRV/view?usp=sharing

And if you haven't already — comment below and we'll add you to our free list so you never miss a future issue, resource or update from Networx. All free. Always. 💛



Directors — this one’s for you. 💛

We know the last six months have been A LOT. New laws. New registers. New training requirements. Award changes. State-specific obligations. It’s been relentless.

So we did the hard work for you.
📋 Introducing Issue 1 of The Director’s Brief — Networx’s brand new newsletter built specifically for centre leaders who need to stay across every change without spending hours trawling government websites.
This edition covers EVERYTHING from September 2025 to now:
🔴 The Paramount Consideration — now enforceable law
📱 Personal device ban — what it means for your team
📝 The National Educator Register — your obligations
🎓 Mandatory Geccko training — 27 August deadline is real
💰 New Award structure & WRP Phase 2
👨‍👩‍👧 CCS 3-day guarantee
🗺️ Full state-by-state breakdown — NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, WA, TAS/ACT/NT
Plus a printable Director’s Action Checklist. ✅

⬇️ COMMENT “SEND IT” BELOW and we’ll send you your free copy — plus add you to our free list so you never miss a future issue, resource or update from Networx.

All completely free. Always.

👀 Stay tuned too — we’ll be announcing our upcoming Networx meeting soon where we’ll be unpacking all of this together. You won’t want to miss it.

To all the incredible women in ECEC, the ones who arrive early, stay late, and give everything in between — happy Intern...
08/03/2026

To all the incredible women in ECEC, the ones who arrive early, stay late, and give everything in between — happy International Women’s Day! 🌸 What you do every single day is extraordinary, even when it doesn’t feel like it. You are shaping little humans, supporting families, and changing lives in ways you’ll never fully see. We are so lucky to have you. Today is yours, own it! 💛✨

𝑾𝒆 𝑯𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝑶𝒏𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑾𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅’𝒔 𝑩𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝑬𝒂𝒓𝒍𝒚 𝑳𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑭𝒓𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌𝒔. 𝑺𝒐 𝑾𝒉𝒚 𝑨𝒓𝒆𝒏’𝒕 𝑾𝒆 𝑼𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑰𝒕?I’ve spent years in early childhood...
08/03/2026

𝑾𝒆 𝑯𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝑶𝒏𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑾𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅’𝒔 𝑩𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝑬𝒂𝒓𝒍𝒚 𝑳𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑭𝒓𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌𝒔. 𝑺𝒐 𝑾𝒉𝒚 𝑨𝒓𝒆𝒏’𝒕 𝑾𝒆 𝑼𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑰𝒕?

I’ve spent years in early childhood education as a teacher on the floor, a director, an educational leader and a consultant. And the same problem follows me everywhere.
We have the EYLF but we’re not really using it.

Not because educators don’t care. They do, deeply. Not because the framework isn’t good. It is, genuinely world-class. But somewhere between the language of Belonging, Being and Becoming and a room full of two year olds on a Tuesday morning, something breaks down.

I’ve sat with educators who can recite the five Learning Outcomes word for word and still plan for product over process like it’s 1995. I’ve seen “intentional teaching” interpreted as sitting children down for a structured lesson, completely missing the point.

This isn’t a criticism of those educators. It’s a failure of the system around them.
Here’s what nobody wants to say out loud: the resources don’t exist. Not EYLF-specific ones. Educators are handed the document and left to build their own planning tools, observation templates, and ways of translating outcomes into lived experience. So they do it, because they’re capable, committed professionals.
But they’re doing it alone, after a full day on the floor, with no dedicated support.
Compare that to registered school teachers. Curriculum-aligned scope and sequences, lesson templates, professionally developed resources that map directly to what they teach. The infrastructure exists. The scaffolding is built in.

Early childhood educators have the EYLF. And a blank page.

Creating resources used to be a skill explicitly taught in our qualifications. That focus has largely disappeared. We’ve trained educators to understand the theory without equipping them with the practical craft to enact it.

The 2022 V2.0 is a stronger document than it’s predecessor, however a better document alone won’t close the gap. What will? EYLF-specific resources educators can actually use. Qualifications that rebuild practical curriculum craft. Sustained, coaching-based professional learning, not one-off PD days.

School teachers don’t build their curriculum from scratch every week. Neither should we.
We owe that investment to educators. And we owe the outcomes to children.

𝘐’𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐’𝘮 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘴𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. 𝘈𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘦𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘨𝘢𝘱 𝘪𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨?

🌟 Join Us for a Transformative Workshop Experience QA1 Reimagining Documentation 🌟EYL Networx and Joondalup Early Learni...
11/04/2025

🌟 Join Us for a Transformative Workshop Experience QA1 Reimagining Documentation 🌟

EYL Networx and Joondalup Early Learning are thrilled to invite you to our upcoming sector workshop, where we embark on a journey to reimagine our curriculum and environment. Dive deep into the heart of early childhood education and discover innovative tools to transform your pedagogy, documentation, and planning cycle.

🍃 TRANSFORM PEDAGOGY
Inspire your heart, head, and practice. Explore fresh insights and engage in critical reflection to align your priorities with meaningful pedagogy.

🍃 TRANSFORM DOCUMENTATION
Reignite your passion for documentation with purpose and joy. Break free from the myths that burden educators and focus on impactful documentation that truly supports children’s learning.

🍃 TRANSFORM THE PLANNING CYCLE
Experience the power of slow pedagogy and inspired environments. Learn how to craft a curriculum that maximizes children’s learning and development opportunities.

Guided by the NQS QA1, this workshop is designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools to create an inspired educational program and practice.

📅 Date:May 21
🕒 Time:6:30 PM
📍 Location:ECU Joondalup, Building 12, Joondalup Early Learning Centre

Tickets are limited, so be sure to book early to secure your spot! To book, simply email:

[email protected]
With the names of the attendees.

Embedding the ECA Code of Ethics in Early Childhood Education: Practical Strategies for EducatorsAs early childhood educ...
12/11/2024

Embedding the ECA Code of Ethics in Early Childhood Education: Practical Strategies for Educators

As early childhood educators, we play a pivotal role in shaping the environment in which young children learn and develop. One essential cornerstone of our profession is the Early Childhood Australia (ECA) Code of Ethics, which provides a framework for ethical practice in our field. Here are some practical strategies for how you can embed the Code into your own settings:

1. Foster Collaborative Planning

Collaboration is at the heart of the Code. Encourage your team to hold regular curriculum planning sessions where every educator’s voice is valued. Facilitate open discussions where diverse perspectives are welcomed. By creating a collaborative environment, you promote mutual respect and harness the collective expertise of your team.

2. Prioritise Professional Development

Ongoing professional development is essential for ethical practice. Organise workshops focused on various aspects of the ECA Code, such as cultural competence, advocacy, and respectful relationships. These opportunities not only enhance staff skills but also ensure that everyone is aligned in their understanding of ethical principles.

3. Implement Reflective Practices

Promote a culture of reflection among your staff. Encourage educators to keep reflective journals where they can discuss their experiences, challenges, and learnings related to the Code of Ethics. Reflection fosters self-awareness and encourages educators to think critically about their practice.

4. Embrace and Celebrate Diversity

Recognising and valuing the diverse backgrounds of children and families is fundamental to the Code. Organise cultural events and activities that celebrate the various cultures represented in your community. These initiatives create an inclusive environment where all children and families feel welcome and valued.

5. Establish Open Communication Channels

Effective communication is key to building strong relationships. Implement an open-door policy that allows staff, families, and children to voice their thoughts and ideas freely. Regularly encourage feedback and discussions, creating a transparent and supportive atmosphere.

6. Develop a Peer Mentoring Program

Establishing a peer mentoring program can greatly enhance professional growth among your staff. Pair experienced educators with newer team members to share knowledge and insights regarding ethical practice. This fosters a sense of community and support, making it easier for everyone to align with the Code.

7. Actively Involve Families

Engaging families in their children's education is not just beneficial; it’s essential. Seek families’ input and feedback on programs and policies. Create opportunities for family involvement, allowing them to contribute their perspectives and expertise, thereby reinforcing the importance of strong partnerships.

8. Create an Ethical Decision-Making Framework

Developing a framework to guide ethical decision-making can be invaluable. Provide staff with resources or guidelines to help them navigate challenges they may face in their practice. This framework should be rooted in the principles of the ECA Code and serve as a reference point for making informed decisions.

Conclusion

Embedding the ECA Code of Ethics in our practice is not just a requirement—it is an opportunity to enhance the quality of care and education we provide. By fostering collaboration, prioritising professional development, embracing diversity, and maintaining open communication, we can create a supportive and ethical environment for both educators and children.

As we strive to uphold the values outlined in the Code, we are not only bettering our professional practice but also making a positive impact on the lives of the children and families we serve. Let’s continue to share our experiences and support one another in fostering ethical practices in early childhood education.

Feel free to reach out if you would like to discuss any of these strategies further or share your own experiences in embedding the ECA Code of Ethics. Together, we can enhance our impact as educators!

** **

Join Us at the EYL Networx 🌼Forum at ECU Joondalup for Early Intervention in Partnerships with Families and CommunitiesW...
27/10/2024

Join Us at the EYL Networx 🌼Forum at ECU Joondalup for Early Intervention in Partnerships with Families and Communities

We invite you to come along to the upcoming EYL Networx Forum, where we’ll be discussing the vital role of early intervention in our sector. Discover how JELC's integrated model of early intervention and parenting support can significantly benefit our community!

This forum will bring together allied health professionals and early childhood education and care (ECEC) specialists who will share valuable insights and strategies on fostering strong partnerships with families and communities. You’ll have the opportunity to hear firsthand about the positive impacts our approach can have on child development and family well-being.

Don't miss this chance to see how collaboration and integrated services can make a difference! Join us in exploring best practices and innovative solutions that support our children and their families.

We look forward to seeing you there and working together to enhance the future of our community!

To register click below

The Importance of Holistic Early Childhood Education and Care CentresIn Australia, the early years of a child's life are...
27/10/2024

The Importance of Holistic Early Childhood Education and Care Centres

In Australia, the early years of a child's life are formative, laying the foundation for their future development, learning, and socialisation. Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) centres play a critical role not just in the education of young children but also in providing holistic services that support families and communities. As research increasingly supports the impact of early education on child outcomes, it becomes clear that ECEC centres must serve as community hubs, offering inclusive family and parenting support systems that help all children reach their potential and be prepared for school.

The Holistic Approach to Early Childhood

Holistic education recognises that children develop cognitively, emotionally, socially, and physically. A comprehensive ECEC centre goes beyond simply providing academic readiness; it also focuses on emotional well-being, social competence, and physical health. This multifaceted approach is essential because:

1. Comprehensive Development:Children who receive holistic support in ECEC centres show improved outcomes across various domains. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW, 2020), children who attend high-quality early childhood programs demonstrate enhanced cognitive and social skills, which contribute to improved long-term learning outcomes.

2. Whole Family Support:ECEC centres that offer family support services enable parents to engage more deeply in their children's learning. Research from the Australian Government Department of Education, Skills and Employment (2021) emphasizes that family engagement in educational settings directly correlates with children's academic success.

3. Community Engagement:ECEC centres positioned as community hubs can facilitate collaborations among local organisations, schools, and health services. The Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth (ARACY, 2017) highlights that community engagement strengthens the capacity of ECEC services to address the diverse needs of families and improve children's educational experiences.

The Case for Inclusion

Inclusive ECEC centres recognise and value the diversity of families and children. They strive to eliminate barriers to access and participation by providing tailored support for various needs. Benefits of such an inclusive approach are well-documented, with findings stating that:

Equitable Opportunities:The Australian Government (2019) asserts that inclusive early childhood services increase access to quality education for disadvantaged groups, including children with disabilities and those from low-income backgrounds. This access enables these children to thrive alongside their peers, promoting social cohesion.

Richer Learning Environments:Mixed-ability classrooms foster empathy and understanding among children, preparing them for future interactions in a diverse society. The Victorian Government (2021) indicates that inclusive practices in early childhood settings enhance children's social skills and support emotional development.

ECEC Centres as Community Pillars

For ECEC centres to genuinely serve as community pillars, they must prioritise the integration of services that go beyond child care and education. Strategies include:

1. Parent Support Programs:Offering resources such as parenting classes, counseling, and peer support groups can empower families and enhance parenting skills. The Australian Parenting Website (2023) provides a wealth of resources designed to support parents and caregivers.

2. Health and Wellness Services: Collaborating with local health organizations to provide screenings, immunizations, and physical health resources ensures that children's health needs are met holistically. The Health and Wellbeing of Young Australians report by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2020) underscores the importance of holistic health services in ECEC settings.

3. Transition-to-School Programs:Preparing children for the transition to formal schooling through curricula designed to build critical social and emotional skills is vital. The Australian Government’s National Quality Framework (2018) emphasizes that well-structured transition programs are integral to the success of children entering school.

The evidence is compelling: ECEC centres that offer holistic services are not merely facilities for child minding ; they are vital community resources that play a pivotal role in shaping the futures of children and their families. By embracing an inclusive, multi-faceted approach to education and support, these centres ensure that all children are given the tools they need to thrive. As we invest in the next generation, let us champion the role of ECEC centres at the heart of our communities, fostering environments where every child can reach their potential and be ready for school.

References

- Australian Government. (2019). Inclusive early childhood education and care: A guidance document for services.Retrieved from https://www.education.gov.au/inclusive-early-childhood-education-and-care-guidance-document

- Australian Government Department of Education, Skills and Employment. (2021). Family engagement in early childhood.Retrieved from https://www.education.gov.au/family-engagement-early-childhood

- Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2020). Australia's children: Their health and wellbeing 2020. Retrieved from https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/children-youth/australias-children-2020/summary

- Australian Parenting Website. (2023). Parenting resources. Retrieved from https://www.parenting.com.au

- Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth. (2017). The role of early childhood services in supporting families.Retrieved from https://www.aracy.org.au/publications-resources

- National Quality Framework. (2018). Transition to school: A guide for early childhood services. Retrieved from https://www.acecqa.gov.au/nqf/about/transition-to-school

- Victorian Government. (2021). Inclusive education in early childhood.Retrieved from https://www.education.vic.gov.au/children/inclusive-education-early-childhood

🎓🌟 An exhilarating day for the EYL Networx team at the ECLD Conference today! Diving deep into every aspect of early chi...
06/05/2024

🎓🌟 An exhilarating day for the EYL Networx team at the ECLD Conference today! Diving deep into every aspect of early childhood development, our committed team got engrossed in enlightening discussions and overflows of knowledge.

From understanding cognitive growth to social-emotional evolution, the richness of play, celebrating neurodiversity, and the art of creating engaging environments – it was a perfect blend of learning, ideating and fine-tuning our perception towards childhood education. 🧠🏫

Our team, with a bright spark in their eyes, eagerly soaked up all this wisdom, determined to share them with the rest of our network. We're thrilled at the prospect of enriching our collective practices with this wealth of insights, ensuring a more holistic and comprehensive approach towards nurturing our young learners.

We can't wait to further research and share these learning experiences in our network, so we start to infuse all these learnings into our approach in teaching and caring for our children. Stay tuned for more exciting updates as we put our new knowledge into action! 🎈

🌟 Join us for a magical evening of FREE learning and networking at the Early Childhood Professionals Twilight Night! 🌙In...
02/05/2024

🌟 Join us for a magical evening of FREE learning and networking at the Early Childhood Professionals Twilight Night! 🌙

Indulge in delicious nibbles and Prosecco as we delve into the impacts of EYLF v2 on leadership in early childhood settings. This free event is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow professionals, share insights, and enhance your knowledge in the field.

Date: 29 May 2024
Time: 6:30pm
Location: ECU Joondalup, JELC Building 12
Message us to book!

Don't miss out on this FREE enriching experience! Come join us for an evening of discovery and camaraderie. See you there! 🧀🥂🌠

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