Some would say that there has never been a better time to become a degree qualified early childhood teacher (ECT). There’s a broad range of courses on offer to meet increased demand due to the sector’s growing needs for preschool teachers, but how do you choose the right course and what are the benefits of […]
On Wednesday 11 September Future Tracks, a social enterprise committed to attracting and supporting the next generation of teachers and leaders in early childhood education, released their research report on Upskilling in early childhood education. The report provides interesting insights into the barriers and opportunities to grow the ECEC workforce. The report was commissioned to […]
Educators need education. The focus on both entry level and ongoing professional development is a fundamental requirement of participation in the National Quality Framework and, more generally, one of the hallmarks of a true profession in the modern world. But sometimes it’s easier said than done. Time, money, confidence, employment, location and awareness can all […]
National Child Protection Week, 1–7 September This year for Child Protection Week we are able to share not just what’s going on, but also why it’s being communicated the way it is. If you’ve wondered why lighthouses feature so prominently in the Week’s promotional campaign, read on! The 2019 National Child Protection Week (often called […]
Has anyone recently asked you to look at things from a different point of view? Maybe you’ve been invited to think outside the box? How about turning your frown upside down? It’s occasionally unsettling, but more often refreshing and engaging, to change the way you view everyday activities. Even more so when you can apply […]
As we move steadily past winter’s halfway mark, in many parts of Australia the days are not only longer but also sunnier and much more inviting for outdoor activities. In previous articles, Amplify has looked at different aspects of winter for early childhood education. This story gathers inspiration and resources for an artform that, while […]
Darren Brisbane is the author of many inspiring and insightful Amplify stories, often sharing lessons learned at the expense of his own preconceptions. This story about how he took a complete turnaround on templates for children’s art activities is another example of his candid style. While Darren works with school-aged children, this article will appeal […]
Annie O’Sullivan returns to Amplify with a wonderful (and wonder-full) contemplation on intentional teaching, play-based learning, mathematics, sciences, and puddles. Not sure how all of that comes together? Read on! Annie’s story covers theory and practice around connections with children and makes use of the puddles that naturally occur in many children’s services and schools […]
Annie O’Sullivan is an early childhood educator and mentor of 30 years experience who now shares her knowledge, with a colleague, as the Early Years Education Specialists. Annie lectures part time at Wollongong University and recently graduated from Macquarie University with a Master of Early Childhood. In today’s story, Annie celebrates her experience of embracing risky […]
Beth Sebesfi is an early childhood teacher and mother of three daughters aged 5, 3 and not-yet-1. From time to time she shares with us the professional insights arising from her personal experiences with children at work and home. Today’s story is a reflection on the impact of seeing children through a lens of ‘cuteness’. […]
