G8 takes centre leaders and support office team on NZ study tour

A select group of centre leaders and support office staff from G8 Education recently went on a study tour of New Zealand, facilitated in partnership with Childspace Early Learning.

Chosen in recognition for their excellence in pedagogy and practice, the group travelled to Wellington for the provider’s inaugural international study tour, attending workshops and centre visits during which they explored topics including authentic relationships, rituals, wellbeing and leadership.  

“The study tour group has returned home to their centres inspired, and well informed to share their learning with their teams,” G8 Education’s Head of Early Learning and Education, Ali Evans said. 

“Toni and Robin Christie from Childspace were so generous with their time and knowledge, and really reinforced the importance of being truly present with children and designing responsive and contextual learning environments.”  

Ms Evans outlined G8’s plans to strengthen the partnership between Childspace and the provider, hinting at a reciprocal relationship which would see New Zealand practitioners visiting Australia, as well as ways for G8 to share the takeaways from these exchanges more broadly across the network and embed key learnings.

Speaking on behalf of Childspace Ms Christie said it was a joy to spend time with such a passionate cohort, and to share ideas about leadership, curriculum, rituals, risk, resilience, loose parts, environment design, settling and building relationships with families.

Dr Mia Christensen, Education Manager Innovation and Partnerships at G8 Education, said she particularly enjoyed exploring the notion of co-creating learning environments with children that are an ‘irresistible invitation’ for all those engaging in the space – both children and adults alike. 

The concept of “rituals, not routines” struck a chord with Area Manager Sharon Askew, while centre manager Charnna Matijevic said building her confidence in understanding risky play in the early childhood setting and how to embed it safely within her centre was a standout moment. 

“I was provided with so much research, knowledge, information and references to unpack with my team and implement it confidently,” she added. 

Learn more about the professional development opportunities offered by Childspace here.