2020 Victorian Early Years Award nominations now open

Nominations for the Victorian Early Years Award, a staple of the early childhood sector in Victoria for the past 15 years, are now open, with families, early childhood professionals and early years organisations encouraged to recognise the outstanding work of early years professionals in improving the lives of young children by nominating an individual or organisation.

Victorian Minister for Education James Merlino opened the nominations last week, asking for the community’s support in recognising, rewarding and celebrating individuals and organisations, and highlighting those taking action to improve outcomes within the early years sector.

In 2020, the awards celebrate the achievements and commitment of early childhood professionals across seven award categories, including improving access and participation, supporting parents and promoting children’s health and wellbeing, as well as the prestigious Early Childhood Teacher of the Year.

Award winners receive up to $15,000 to further develop and share the lessons of their exceptional work in kindergartens, schools, local councils, maternal child and health services and other early years organisations across the state.

Nominations for the awards close on Monday 6 July, with finalists announced in September ahead of the awards ceremony expected to be held in November.