HESTA ECEC Award nominations now open ahead of October gala dinner

Nominations for the annual HESTA Early Childhood Education & Care Awards are now open, giving the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector the opportunity to recognise the front-line educators and carers at the very heart of Australia’s early childhood system. 

Operational since 2010, nominations for the prestigious awards can be made by anyone involved in the delivery of ECEC services across three categories, including Advancing Pedagogy and Practice, Individual Leadership and Outstanding Service, with winners sharing in a prize pool of $30,000.

“HESTA is so proud to help celebrate the exceptional work of early childhood educators and help share their inspiring stories,” HESTA CEO Debby Blakey said, adding that in her view, the ECEC sector is “an integral part of communities around the nation.”

“Early childhood educators play a crucial role in shaping the lives of our youngest Australians. They provide a safe and nurturing environment, inspired learning and creativity, and help children develop the skills they need to succeed and thrive. We are so grateful for the work they do each day.” 

An independent judging panel will review nominations, select finalists and choose the winner of each category, each of whom will take home $10,000 – donated by longstanding Awards supporter ME – to be used for personal or professional development or further development of processes or services in the workplace.

“ME is incredibly proud to be supporting these awards to recognise the amazing efforts and achievements of Australia’s early childhood educators and carers. These brilliant people are guiding Australia’s future generations at such an important time for their development and growth, helping children to reach their full potential,” said ME CEO Martine Jager.

Nominations for the Awards will close at midnight AEST on Sunday 25 June 2023. Winners will be announced on Friday 6 October 2023 at a special awards ceremony held in Adelaide as part of the Early Childhood Australia National Conference program.  

To find out more about the awards, please see here.

Image shows HESTA Early Childhood Education & Care Awards 2022 winners L to R: Danelle Brilley, Goodstart Early Learning Glenfield Park; Elizabeth Price, Gloucester Preschool & Early Years Learning Centre and Rachael Sydir, Explore & Develop Penrith.