Supporting you to deliver quality early education

Join over 27,000 early education professionals who benefit from our 1800 support line, training, resource library, consulting and sector expertise. We are a not-for-profit peak body, supporting and advocating for community managed and small providers.

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Membership

Why Join CELA?

CELA has been supporting early education and care professionals for over 45 years. Being a CELA member means that you’ll never have to face a challenge alone. 

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TRAINING

Creating Safer Childhoods Series

Training designed to strengthen your team's focus on child safety, and build trust with families.

Complete all three webinars to earn a certificate to share with families. 

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A MESSAGE FROM OUR PARTNER

Guild extends Workers Compensation insurance offering

Guild Early Learning (GEL) is Workers Compensation specifically developed for childcare, preschool and kindergarten centres in NSW.

To learn more about GEL and how it can help protect your business and staff’s wellbeing, call 1800 810 213 or visit guildinsurance.com.au

By Meg_Anastasi 1 Dec, 2025

Beyond observation: The power of critical reflection and why it matters

Critical reflection is more than looking back. It is a collaborative, equity-focused process that helps educators challenge assumptions, listen deeply to children and families, and make informed changes that strengthen practice.

Meg Anastasi unpacks what critical reflection means in the context of everyday practice and shares practical questions and models to guide your thinking, exploring real examples, from navigating complex play to reimagining end of year celebrations through children’s agency and wellbeing.

By Kate_Montiglio 24 Nov, 2025

Protecting the work of childhood: Our role as the custodians of play

Educators know that play is the ‘work of childhood’ and the foundation of learning. But how do you protect this vital experience when faced with documentation demands and safety anxieties?

Educational Leader Kate Montiglio explores the notion of custodianship and why it is so important that unstructured, imaginative, and exploratory play is protected and celebrated.

By Aline_Majado 17 Nov, 2025

Verifying qualifications: What services need to know

Qualified and capable educators are essential for providing quality early childhood education and care. But verifying the qualifications of potential and current team members can be tricky. 

We provide an essential guide for directors and staff who need to navigate international credentials and Registered Training Organisation (RTO) qualifications. 

Aboriginal flag  Torres Strait Islander flag

Acknowledgement of country
CELA acknowledges all Traditional Custodians across Australia and recognises First Nations Peoples' connection to their lands, skies and waterways. We respect Elders past, present and emerging. Together we work towards a better future for all children, families and communities. 

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Original news and views written by CELA, industry experts and members.

Guild Insurance

CELA’s insurer of choice. Protecting Australian businesses and individuals with tailored insurance products and caring personal service.

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