Understanding the role of the nominated supervisor: Free webinar series supports ECEC leadership

A new three-part webinar series is now available to support nominated supervisors in early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings to strengthen their knowledge, skills and professional confidence across a complex and critical leadership role.

Nominated supervisors are legally responsible for the day-to-day operation of education and care services, a position that carries significant regulatory, ethical and educational accountability under the National Quality Framework (NQF). They play a key leadership role in ensuring the service meets its obligations under the Education and Care Services National Law and Regulations, while also supporting high-quality outcomes for children, families and educators.

The newly released webinar series explores the nominated supervisor’s role in depth, offering clear guidance on legal responsibilities, regulatory compliance, leadership practice and quality improvement. Delivered in three focused modules, the series has been designed to be both practical and accessible, supporting early childhood professionals across a range of service types and career stages.

Module 1: Legal and regulatory responsibilities

The first module provides an overview of the legal and regulatory obligations of the nominated supervisor, including relevant provisions of the National Law and National Regulations. Participants will gain insights into key areas such as provider approvals, service operations, staffing requirements, notifications and serious incident reporting.

This module reinforces the importance of understanding the nominated supervisor’s role within the broader governance framework of a service. It also clarifies the relationship between nominated supervisors and approved providers, highlighting the need for strong communication, shared accountability and proactive compliance.

Module 2: Leadership and management in ECEC settings

The second module focuses on the leadership dimension of the nominated supervisor role, exploring how effective leadership and management can positively influence team culture, staff retention and professional practice.

Drawing on elements of the National Quality Standard (NQS) – particularly Quality Area 7: Governance and Leadership – this module unpacks how nominated supervisors can support reflective practice, implement service philosophy, manage risk and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Practical strategies for supervision, team support, conflict resolution and role modelling are also shared, supporting nominated supervisors to lead with clarity and purpose.

Module 3: Child safety and educational quality

The final module addresses the nominated supervisor’s critical role in child safety, wellbeing and learning outcomes. With a focus on Quality Areas 1 and 2 of the NQS, this session explores how nominated supervisors can oversee educational programs, uphold child-safe practices and ensure children’s health and safety are prioritised at all times.

Participants will explore risk management strategies, reporting obligations under child protection legislation, and the importance of collaboration with families and external services. The module also examines how nominated supervisors can influence educational practice through curriculum leadership, mentoring and intentional planning.

Professional learning that’s free, flexible and focused

This fee-free* professional learning series is open to eligible participants, offering a flexible, self-paced opportunity for ECEC leaders to strengthen their understanding of the nominated supervisor role.

Each module is underpinned by current legislative frameworks and sector guidance, ensuring that the content is both relevant and aligned with contemporary practice expectations. Whether newly appointed to the role or seeking to refresh knowledge, nominated supervisors will benefit from the practical, scenario-based approach to learning.

As services prepare for 2026, this is a time to consider how this resource can support onboarding processes for existing and new nominated supervisors, or form part of ongoing professional development planning. Ensuring nominated supervisors are well-prepared and confident in their responsibilities not only supports compliance,  it also builds a stronger, more capable leadership pipeline across the ECEC sector.

The series also supports services to meet NQF requirements for educator training, supervision and leadership capability, contributing to broader quality improvement planning and service outcomes.

Access the series and learn more about eligibility here.