Online event will see ECEC gather to improve cultural safety for First Nations children

Hundreds of representatives from across the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector in NSW are expected to attend an online event tomorrow with the aim of improving cultural safety for First Nations children and families. 

The event will be the first time that ECEC services will come together for the Cultural Safety Framework project, to inform the sector about the project consultations that are about to take place.

The Cultural Safety Framework project is aligned to the Department’s Aboriginal Children’s Early Childhood Education Strategy 2021-2025, First Steps.

“We have worked closely with the Early Childhood Education Aboriginal Advisory Group to co-design the First Steps strategy, which aims to improve the participation and educational outcomes of Aboriginal children across the early childhood sector,” a Departmental spokesperson said.

Representatives from within the Department’s early childhood education and care services, and members of the Early Childhood Education Aboriginal Advisory Group will provide information about the development of the Cultural Safety Framework project and its importance to the First Steps Strategy, current case studies of culturally responsive practice in early childhood settings, and information on the sector consultations that are about to take place and how participants can get involved.

“A consultative approach to the development and implementation of a Cultural Safety Framework for the sector, will be critical for its success. The consultations that are about to take place will provide a great opportunity for early childhood education and care services, and community stakeholders, to have input into the development of the framework,” the spokesperson said.

“In partnership with families, early childhood education services play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of children and preparing children for primary and secondary education. A Cultural Safety Framework in early childhood will increase participation and safety of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families, as well as enhance educational outcomes.”

More information and registration for the Cultural Safety Framework Webinar can be found here.