G8 Education establishes Education Advisory Committee to engage with experts

G8 Education has established a ‘think tank’ style Education Advisory Committee of sector experts to continue to drive innovation and quality across its national network. 

The committee, G8 Education Board Member Dr Julie Cogin explained, will allow the G8 Education team to exchange insights with recognised experts in the field of early childhood education and care (ECEC) and beyond, exposing them to cutting edge research and ideas.   

“We aim to create a think tank environment so that researchers can integrate their discoveries into learning centres to accelerate joint education goals,” she added, outlining the commitment of the Board to disseminating the learnings from the group to advance the quality of early childhood education across not only its network, but the profession as a whole. 

The committee met for the first time last month, with G8 Education’s Head of Early Learning and Education Ali Evans, Education Manager Innovative and Partnerships Dr Mia Christensen, and Dr Cogin being joined by Professor Sue Grieshaber, Catharine Hydon and Associate Professor Sonia White.

“I forward to working with the Committee to enact the G8 strategic plan which includes providing innovative and high-quality early childhood education to support children and families to achieve their potential,” Professor Grieshaber said. 

One of the programs of work will be the exploration of the role of technologies in a child’s development and how they can be used to enhance cognitive and social abilities.

“Our thought leaders will provide insights and feedback to ensure our Education Strategy is contemporary and reflective of current innovation and trends in the early childhood sector,” Ms Evans said.

“I believe it is crucial to have an external critical thinking lens in providing feedback on our strategy to ensure we continue to provide transformative early learning programs.” 

The Education Advisory Committee will be meeting throughout the year to progress projects and initiatives. Learn more on the G8 Education website.