Early Learning Matters Week: A celebration of our ELC staff

This week is Early Learning Matters Week – a time to celebrate the importance of early learning and the work of early childhood educators.

Blackfriars’ Coordinator of Early Learning Jacqui Ballestrin said the week put the spotlight on the importance of our Early Learning Centre (ELC) educators in the learning journeys of our youngest students.

“Early Learning Matters Week highlights the crucial role early childhood education plays in laying the foundation for lifelong learning, emotional resilience and social competence,” Ms Ballestrin said.

“It reminds us that the first years of life are a period of incredible growth and learning and is a call to recognise and support the educators and programs that nurture our youngest learners.

“As an early childhood educator at Blackfriars, I see firsthand the transformative effects of early learning.”

ELC students, staff and Blackfriars wellbeing dog Albi during Early Learning Matters Week.

Blackfriars ELC encompasses the Reggio Emilia approach to young children’s learning, whereby children are encouraged to explore, investigate and discover through play.

Educators are co-learners, guides and partners in the child’s learning.

Parents are a vital component to the Reggio Emilia philosophy and, as such, are viewed as partners, collaborators and advocates for their children. This approach to puts the natural development of children, as well as close relationships that they share with their environment and educators, at the centre of its philosophy.

Blackfriars ELC staff work tirelessly to build meaningful relationships with students and their families.

“When families are actively involved in their child’s education, it fosters a collaborative environment. This involvement can lead to higher levels of student engagement and success,” Ms Ballestrin said.

“These relationships are fundamental to creating a nurturing and effective early learning environment that promotes the overall wellbeing and development of children.”

Early Learning Matters Week is a time to pay tribute to our dedicated ELC staff.

Principal David Ruggiero paid tribute to Blackfriars’ ELC staff.

“During Early Learning Matters Week, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our incredible ELC staff,” Mr Ruggiero said.

“Your dedication, compassion and tireless efforts lay the foundation for our children’s future. Thank you for creating a nurturing environment where young minds can thrive and families feel supported. Your work truly makes a difference and we are profoundly grateful for all that you do.”

What is Early Learning Matters Week?

Organised by Early Childhood Australia (ECA), Early Learning Matters Week aims to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of early learning in shaping the development and wellbeing of children.

ECA seeks to highlight the significant role that early learning plays in laying the foundation for future success and to emphasise the value of quality early childhood education and care.

Additionally, Early Learning Matters Week aims to bring together early childhood educators, parents, caregivers and community leaders to celebrate and advocate for high-quality early learning, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration in promoting the wellbeing of children and communities.

Source: earlylearningmatters.org.au

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