Thriving as Male Educators Conference launches

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Freya Lucas

Aug 14, 2024

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A new professional development event, hosted by Thriving as Male Educators, is aiming to support the men of early childhood education and care (ECEC) to feel empowered, connect with their peers, and build a space where they feel they can thrive.

Male ECEC professionals are somewhat of a rare breed, making up just three per cent of the overall ECEC workforce, and this, conference organiser Ramesh Shrestha explained, can sometimes make for a lonely experience. “I’ve been in the ECEC sector for 7 years,” Ramesh explained, “and I know it’s not just me who can sometimes struggle to make those connections.” That sense of isolation is what drove Mr Shrestha to build a community of men in ECEC, which has now grown to over 200 members, each of whom are committed to fostering a supportive network that encourages personal and professional development. Thriving as Male Educators was founded on the principles of collaboration, inclusivity, and professional growth, and the group provides a platform for male educators to connect, share experiences, and develop their skills. “Through events like the Thriving as Male Educators Conference, we aim to inspire and equip male educators with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in their roles and positively impact the lives of children and communities,” Ramesh said, inviting other men to join in with the vibrant, thriving community of dedicated educators he and other group members have created.

Hosted virtually by TAFE NSW and Thriving as Male Educators, the conference celebrates the achievements of men in early childhood education and care (ECEC) and acknowledges the diverse contributions they make. The conference features speakers with decades of experience in ECEC, focusing on topics such as inclusion, leadership, staff retention, and pedagogy.

Speakers include:

Anthony Semann (Director): Anthony Semann, founder of the Males in Early Childhood Group in 1992, is a seasoned early childhood educator and advocate for equity and social justice. As a founding director of Semann & Slattery, he has significantly contributed to early years education through consulting and research, earning recognition as ECA Advocate of the Year.

Ralph Southall (Director): With 40 years in ECEC, Ralph is a strong advocate for the sector and educators. He has been involved with several committees, including Early Childhood Australia, the Educational Leaders Association, and the Thrive by Five Campaign. He also co-founded DanceAbility Performing Arts Kelete (DAPAK) which provides dance and music therapy to people with disabilities.

Blake Stewart (Early Intervention Key Worker / Lecturer / Consultant): Blake has over 10 years of experience in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Intervention, holding a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and a Graduate Diploma in Health Studies (Occupational Therapy). Awarded the National Excellence in Teaching Award (Early Childhood) in 2019, he now lectures and consults, advocating for inclusivity and early intervention in ECEC.

Adam Angwin (Coaching Lead - NSW South/ACT): Adam has over 13 years in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC). Renowned for his leadership and innovation, Adam has successfully led a center with 12 male educators, earning national recognition for innovation, excellence in service, and outstanding outcomes for children.

Martyn Mills-Bayne (Senior Lecturer): Dr. Martyn Mills-Bayne is a Senior Lecturer at the University of South Australia, known for his leadership in advancing Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC). He leads initiatives like the MENtor Program for Males in ECE and collaborates with the Thrive by Five Dad's Alliance to increase male participation in ECEC, and has been recognized with numerous awards, including the 2016 Student Choice Excellent Teacher Award and a Senior Fellowship with Advance HE.

Robert Benson (ECE Veteran): After 44 years in Early Childhood Education, primarily as a Preschool Director and Teacher, he recently retired, having also served as a TAFE teacher, Consultant, and Area Manager. A pioneer in the field, he was the first male to graduate in Early Childhood Studies from Townsville Teacher’s Training College and worked with organizations like KU Children’s Services, advocating for children's rights and promoting sustainability and nature-based play.

Registrations for the Thriving as Male Educators Conference, which is being offered to the ECEC community at no cost, are now open.

To learn more or to register please visit the website.

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