Goodstarters discover next practice on international study tour

Seven of Goodstart’s team members have returned from an international ‘Discovering Next Practice’ professional learning experience in New Zealand, led by Goodstart’s Chief Children’s Officer Cathrine Neilsen-Hewett and Jo Singleton (Goodstart Program Lead - Teaching, Learning and Support). 

For Goodstart, creating better outcomes for children starts with investing in the people who support them every day.

The study tour brought together a group of high-performing Goodstart educators and leaders, recognising their contribution to children, families and communities while providing them with a unique opportunity to explore world-leading early learning practice.

As Australia's largest not-for-profit early learning provider, Goodstart is committed to creating meaningful opportunities for employees to learn, grow and develop throughout their careers. The New Zealand Study Tour is one example of how Goodstart invests in professional learning that extends beyond traditional training and development programs.

The educators selected for the tour were recognised through Goodstart's annual awards program, which celebrates team members who demonstrate outstanding commitment to children, families and colleagues.

While recognition is important, opportunities like the study tour also reflect Goodstart's commitment to nurturing talent and supporting career growth.

Providing employees with access to unique professional learning experiences helps build capability, confidence and leadership skills, while reinforcing the value of ongoing learning across the organisation.

Learning from leading practice

New Zealand is internationally recognised for its innovative approach to early childhood education, with a strong focus on children's agency, relationships, culture and community.

During the tour, participants visited a range of early learning settings, connected with sector experts and explored approaches that support high-quality outcomes for children and families.

Chief Children's Officer Cathrine Neilsen-Hewett said the experience provided a valuable opportunity for educators to deepen their professional knowledge while connecting with leading practice.

“The study tour was an incredible opportunity for some of our most exceptional team members to continue to learn and build on their strong knowledge as early childhood education professionals.” 

The experience encouraged participants to reflect on their own practice, challenge existing thinking and consider new ways of supporting children's learning, development and wellbeing.

A key focus of the experience is ensuring the knowledge, insights and inspiration gained can be shared across Goodstart's network, creating opportunities for teams nationwide to benefit from new ideas and perspectives.

Cathrine said learning alongside international peers plays an important role in strengthening practice across Goodstart.

“Having the opportunity to learn and share knowledge across different cultures and settings is a core part of amplifying quality practice across Goodstart – helping to ensure every child has the best possible start in life.” 

Whether through improved practice, professional conversations or new approaches to teaching and learning, the learnings from the tour will help strengthen outcomes for children, families and communities.

As a not-for-profit organisation, Goodstart's mission is to ensure all children have the best possible start in life. That mission depends on the quality, expertise and passion of its people.

By investing in professional learning opportunities such as the New Zealand Study Tour, Goodstart is helping educators and leaders continue to grow while strengthening the quality of early learning experiences for children.

Because when educators are supported to learn, develop and thrive, children benefit too.

To learn more about a career at Goodstart Early Learning, click here.