Blackfriars ELC staff celebrated during Early Learning Matters Week

David Ruggiero, Principal of Blackfriars, a Catholic school in Adelaide, has paid tribute to the early learning centre (ELC) staff of his school community during Early Learning Matters Week saying their dedication, compassion and tireless efforts lay the foundation for the future of the children they educate and care for. 

 

Early Learning Matters Week, held 5 to 9 August in 2024, is a time to celebrate the importance of early learning and the work of early childhood educators, as well as to unite early childhood educators, parents, caregivers, and community leaders from all corners of Australia to celebrate and advocate for high-quality early learning, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration in promoting the well-being of children and communities.

 

“During Early Learning Matters Week, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our incredible ELC staff,” Mr Ruggiero said.

 

“Thank you for creating a nurturing environment where young minds can thrive and families feel supported. Your work truly makes a difference and we are profoundly grateful for all that you do.”

 

Blackfriars’ Coordinator of Early Learning Jacqui Ballestrin said the week put the spotlight on the importance of the work of the ELC educators in the learning journeys of the schools youngest students.

 

“Early Learning Matters Week highlights the crucial role early childhood education plays in laying the foundation for lifelong learning, emotional resilience and social competence,” Ms Ballestrin said.

 

“It reminds us that the first years of life are a period of incredible growth and learning and is a call to recognise and support the educators and programs that nurture our youngest learners.”

 

Blackfriars ELC encompasses the Reggio Emilia approach to young children’s learning, with children encouraged to explore, investigate and discover through play, and with educators considered as co-learners, guides and partners in the child’s learning.

 

Parents are a vital component to this philosophy and, as such, are viewed as partners, collaborators and advocates for their children. This approach puts the natural development of children, as well as close relationships that they share with their environment and educators, at the centre of its philosophy.

 

“When families are actively involved in their child’s education, it fosters a collaborative environment. This involvement can lead to higher levels of student engagement and success,” Ms Ballestrin said.

 

“These relationships are fundamental to creating a nurturing and effective early learning environment that promotes the overall wellbeing and development of children.”

 

To learn more about Early Learning Matters Week please see here.