Beyond the headlines: celebrating educators and the power of positive relationships in early learning

Early childhood education and care (ECEC) has come under intense scrutiny following serious allegations that have rightly prompted urgent review and reform. But amid the headlines, it’s critical not to lose sight of the thousands of educators across Australia who dedicate themselves every day to creating safe, nurturing and life-shaping environments for children.

ECEC educators are more than care providers; they are attachment figures, learning facilitators, early intervention advocates and champions of equity. Through warm, consistent relationships, they help children feel secure, supported and seen. These relationships are not incidental; they are the foundation of child development.

Research consistently highlights the critical role educators play in fostering emotional regulation, social skills, cognitive growth and a sense of belonging. Positive early experiences particularly those shaped by responsive, caring adults are associated with lifelong benefits, including improved mental health, academic outcomes and resilience.

While reviews and reforms are necessary to strengthen systems and uphold community trust, it’s equally important to acknowledge the extraordinary professionalism and impact of educators already working to the highest standards. Stories of dedication, care and innovation exist in every centre, in every town and city across the country.

If anything, these moments demand deeper investment in the sector not just in regulation, but in workforce support, professional learning, wellbeing initiatives and meaningful career pathways. Ensuring educators are valued, empowered and well-equipped is not only a safeguard; it’s how we elevate quality for children and families.

Critically, safe relationships for children depend on safe environments for educators. This means fostering workplace cultures where team members feel respected, included and psychologically secure. When educators are supported to speak up, contribute ideas, and raise concerns without fear, services are better placed to ensure child safety and uphold high standards of practice.

This also means eliminating toxic workplace behaviours, building strong and respectful leadership, and ensuring that wellbeing is not treated as an afterthought, but a core part of quality assurance. Services with a positive organisational culture are better able to retain staff, foster continuity of care, and build the kinds of trusting relationships that underpin children’s learning and development.

Early learning is a profession centred on purpose. It’s a career that changes lives not just for children, but for the educators themselves. For every confronting news report, there are thousands of untold stories of connection, trust and transformation. These are the stories that shape futures.

Now is the time to double down on what works: high-quality relationships, respectful partnerships with families, and a committed, supported workforce. As reforms unfold, the sector and the broader community must continue to attract, retain and celebrate the people who make early learning meaningful.

Let’s build systems that protect children, yes but also honour and invest in the people who support their growth every single day.