Kalgoorlie-Boulder to host ECEC conference and boost workforce numbers 

The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder will host an upcoming conference and series of skill-building workshops with the aim of attracting and retaining more early childhood education and care (ECEC) professionals in the region.

Along with the conference announcement the City has revealed another round of free professional development opportunities for ECEC staff across the city, as well as Coolgardie and Leonora.

To be held in March the conference will include a series of targeted break-out sessions designed to equip educators with valuable skills and insights, bringing together a dynamic line-up of local and Perth-based experts to explore key topics such as protective behaviours, fostering strong relationships, creating engaging learning environments, and understanding neurodiversity.

In addition to the conference, there will be a series of follow-up professional development workshops, with a focus on leadership and management essentials, and tailored support for family daycare educators.

The city has also secured $25,000 to establish the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Early Childhood Education and Care Educator Awards Program — a new initiative aimed at recognising and retaining outstanding ECEC educators in the community.

Under this program, local ECEC centres can nominate up to 30 educators to receive grants of up to $1000, which can be used to cover accommodation expenses, professional development costs, or to purchase essential equipment for family daycare centres.

Speaking with local media source Kalgoorlie Miner Mayor Glenn Wilson said it was important the city invested in the ECEC sector.

“Our local ECEC services have told us that access to high-quality professional development is key to attracting and keeping great educators in the Goldfields,” he said.

“The upcoming conference and workshops are fantastic opportunities for our educators to build their skills, connect with peers, and feel valued for the incredible work they do.”

The Mayor emphasised the value of ECEC not only for children, but also for the broader economic opportunities of the region. 

“It enables parents to return to work, supports local businesses, and contributes to the overall well-being and development of our youngest residents,” he said.

“We’re proud to back our ECEC educators and celebrate the impact they have on our community.”

Registrations for the 15 March conference, and subsequent workshops (10 – 21 March) close on 3 March, and can be made on the city’s website.

The original coverage of this story is available here.