The NSW Department of Education’s ECE Connect Online returns this month, with a range of informative sessions designed to continue to support and promote the early education and care sector. More than 6000 participants from across the state have already signed up to attend the free webinars, which will include a bumper series of 13 sessions on a range of topics launching Monday November 20.
The return of the online series aims to continue the conversation on improving quality early learning following a successful On the Road tour across NSW.
The department travelled to 10 locations across NSW and met with over 500 educators and service providers to listen to their experiences, feedback and ideas.
Attendees were able to discuss key topics such as workforce, health and development and 100 public preschools, as well as hear about department-led programs and initiatives and regulatory updates.
Acting Deputy Secretary of Early Childhood Outcomes, Mark Barraket, welcomed these invaluable opportunities to openly consult and collaborate with the sector. “ECE Connect allows us to reach early childhood education and care (ECEC) professionals from metro, regional and rural areas and gives them the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue about the sector that they would otherwise not have,” he said.
“The success of our face-to-face sessions in Blacktown, Dubbo, Bourke, Moree, Tamworth, Port Macquarie, Lismore, Nowra, Cessnock and Fairfield reaffirms our commitment to engage with and support the early childhood education and care sector.
“Attendees who were surveyed about the event found the sessions helpful and informative, and embraced the opportunity to engage with the department and fellow colleagues in the local sector.
“This shows it is crucial that we create a platform where professionals can come together, share insights and discuss ways to enhance the quality of education for our youngest learners.”
Representatives from within the department’s ECEC directorate, along with expert speakers, will share their insights on a range of topics including information on health and development checks, exploring risk in ECEC settings, Start Strong and emergency management.
The first webinar will focus on regulatory changes that have come into effect including safe sleep practices, approval process and safe arrival of children, and provide guidance on how to implement those changes.
