Gold Coast early learning group invests in future educators through ELEVATE Leadership Program

Sanctuary Early Learning Adventure has officially launched the second year of its ELEVATE Future Leaders Program, an initiative designed to mentor and develop the next generation of early childhood leaders across its centres.

The program, which launched earlier this month, provides structured leadership development, mentorship and coaching for educators looking to grow into leadership roles within the early childhood sector.

Now entering its second year, the ELEVATE program reflects Sanctuary’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the quality of early learning environments by investing in the people who shape them every day.

Founder and Owner Lauren Hall said the initiative is ultimately about creating the best possible outcomes for children and families.

“ELEVATE is designed to grow and develop the incredible educators and leaders within our centres,” Lauren said.

“When leaders grow, centres thrive. And when centres are thriving and performing at their best, children flourish.”

The 2026 cohort includes 24 educators from Sanctuary centres across Queensland, participating across three leadership development pathways designed to support different stages of leadership growth.

The program is structured across three tiers:

·       Emerging – supporting educators who are beginning their leadership journey

·       Exploring – developing educators who are stepping into leadership responsibilities

·       Extending – strengthening the capability of experienced leaders as they deepen their impact within teams and centres.

Participants across the program focus on strengthening their leadership capability, emotional intelligence, operational excellence and their ability to build high-performing, nurturing teams.

Lauren explains that investing in leadership has a direct impact on the experience families and children receive each day.

“Research and our experience both tell us that strong leadership creates more consistent educators, stronger team culture, better communication and higher quality learning environments,” she said.

“Ultimately, this leads to better outcomes for children and stronger partnerships with families.”

As part of the program, the Exploring and Extending cohorts will come together on 17 September for a one-day leadership conference and dinner, designed to celebrate learning, deepen connections and reflect on the leadership journey.

Sanctuary Early Learning Adventure operates multiple early learning centres across Queensland and is known for its strong focus on relationships, community connection and child-led learning environments.

As the ELEVATE program enters its second year, Sanctuary continues to invest in developing confident leaders who support thriving teams and nurturing environments for children.

“This is part of our long-term commitment to the families who place their trust in us every day,” Lauren said.

Through initiatives like ELEVATE, Sanctuary continues to invest in building a strong and sustainable early childhood workforce while creating environments where both educators and children can thrive.

Learn more about Sanctuary Early Learning Adventure via their website.