Early Learning Matters Week concludes with Parliament House wrap-up event

Early Learning Matters Week, which was acknowledged from 5 – 9 August 2024, wrapped up with a special event at Parliament House on Thursday 15 August.

 

Early Childhood Australia (ECA) and the Co-Chairs of the Parliamentary Friends of Early Childhood celebrated the conclusion of the all important week of advocacy and celebration with an event highlighting the theme of learning through play, along with the ‘pivotal moment’ in recognising the value of early childhood education and care with a Federally backed 15 per cent wage increase.

 

 A video collated about the week and presented at the wrap-up event featured 11 MPs visiting services and engaging with children, educators and families, and sharing their messages of support for the sector. 

 

“At Early Childhood Australia we believe that early learning matters every day of the year, and we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on the wonderful work of early childhood teachers and educators,” ECA CEO Samantha Page said. 

 

“The purpose of celebrating Early Learning Matters Week every year is to invite policymakers and MPs to be a part of the early childhood sector, show their support and recognise the importance of high-quality early childhood education and care in the lives of young children and their families. This year we have seen a record level of engagement and a very welcome announcement on wage increases for educators.”

 

The announcement of the wage increase during Early Learning Matters Week, she continued, “further underscores the importance of valuing and supporting the early childhood sector.”

 

Co-Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Early Childhood Senator Marielle Smith agreed, saying “the work of early childhood educators isn’t just life-changing, it’s nation-building.”

 

The event was supported by KU Children’s Services and the LEGO Group, and had a special focus on the role of play in enhancing children’s learning. 

 

“KU is delighted to be at Parliament House today alongside ECA and the LEGO Group to shine a light on the importance of children learning through play and to celebrate the important work of the professional teachers and educators who work in the sector,” KU Children’s Services CEO Christine Legg said. 

 

“Play-based learning is the basis of our pedagogy and is the foundation on which KU was established 129 years ago. Through play, children are supported to develop relationships, communication and social skills, learn to hypothesise, experiment, gain independence and confidence.” 

 

The wrap-up event concluded with a renewed commitment to advocating for play-based learning and ensuring that every child benefits from high-quality early childhood education around the country. 

 

Learn more about Early Learning Matters Week here.