Three stories of male leadership and influence in ECEC

This month, the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) has profiled three male educators making an impact across early childhood education and care (ECEC). From international research to leadership in outside school hours care (OSHC) and building family connections, their experiences highlight the diverse ways men are contributing to quality, inclusion and community in the sector.

International perspectives shaping practice

Alex, an early childhood teacher in a long day care service, combines academic study with global research to reimagine practice. Currently undertaking a Master of Early Childhood at Macquarie University, Alex has immersed himself in critical reflection on pedagogy, children’s rights and the profession.

A pivotal moment came during his undergraduate studies at the University of Newcastle, when he visited the Infant-toddler Centres and Preschools of Reggio Emilia. More recently, he was awarded the 2024 NSW Premier’s Teachers Scholarship for Early Childhood, enabling research in the United Kingdom and Sweden on the Original Learning Approach (OLA) developed by Suzanne Axelsson.

Exploring OLA alongside Playwork principles sharpened his understanding of how cultural values, policy and history influence education systems. These approaches emphasise play, wonder, relationships and deep learning, ideas Alex has applied by creating open-ended, sensory-rich, socially responsive environments.

“Pedagogical documentation is not just a record,” he reflects, “it is a tool for reflection, dialogue and ethical responsibility.” His work demonstrates how international perspectives can inform equitable, sustainable practice in Australian ECEC.

Leading with purpose in OSHC

Joel, program manager at an OSHC service, has worked across Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales for almost a decade. His leadership is rooted in empathy, trust and adaptability, underpinned by the Playwork philosophy that children lead their own play.

Introduced to Playwork during the COVID-19 pandemic, Joel says it gave him both a language and a framework for what he had always valued. The principles now guide his leadership, from supporting educators’ professional growth to fostering inclusive, wellbeing-focused cultures.

He emphasises that the strength of an OSHC program lies not just in resources or routines, but in the sense of connection and safety for both children and staff. “When educators feel valued and supported, everything else follows,” he says.

As a male leader in OSHC, Joel also sees his role as modelling respectful, values-led leadership and encouraging a diverse future workforce.

Building community through the Fatherhood Group

Tyler, an educator in a long day care service, founded the Fatherhood Group to strengthen connections between fathers in his community. Inspired by his own reflections on the value of honest, supportive conversations, he created a space for fathers to share experiences and challenges.

Initially meeting monthly at the kindergarten, the group discussed prompts such as “Tell us one thing you love about yourself.” Over time, the gatherings led to deeper connections, with families arranging camping trips, building friendships and rethinking parenting approaches.

The initiative has since expanded to include park playdates and even a fathers’ band performing at the kindergarten’s music festival. Service leaders have noted its tangible impact, with fathers engaging more at drop-off and pick-up, and children benefiting from stronger community ties.

Tyler says the experience has been transformative, deepening his understanding of fatherhood and the kind of presence children need: emotional availability, playfulness and connection.

These stories illustrate the depth and diversity of male educators’ contributions in ECEC. Through research, leadership and community-building, Alex, Joel and Tyler are not only enhancing outcomes for children but also modelling the sector’s commitment to equity, inclusion and quality.

Read their full inspirational stories here.