WA Early Childhood Learning and Development Sector Awards highlight leadership, inclusion and quality practice across early learning

The 2026 WA Early Childhood Learning and Development (ECLD) Sector Awards have recognised outstanding educators, leaders and services across Western Australia, celebrating the depth of expertise and commitment within the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector. Delivered by Child Australia, the awards highlight practice that reflects the principles of the National Quality Framework (NQF) and demonstrates the sector’s ongoing commitment to quality, inclusion and continuous improvement.

Now in its fourth year, the awards continue to play a significant role in elevating professional recognition across the ECEC workforce, a workforce that underpins children’s development, family wellbeing and community strength across the state.

Child Australia’s Executive Director, Practice & Impact Danielle James, reflected on the success of the event “These awards shine a light on the professionalism and dedication of educators and leaders who make a profound difference in children’s lives every day,. Their work reflects the values of quality, inclusion and collaboration that sit at the heart of early learning in Western Australia.”

Recognising educator excellence

Elizabeth Lowe from Brockman House was named Outstanding Early Childhood Educator, acknowledged for building respectful, trusting relationships with children, families and colleagues. Her practice demonstrates a consistent focus on listening to children’s voices, supporting families through challenges and fostering a positive and collaborative team culture. 

Roslyn Humbles of Sunnyside Family Day Care received the Family Choice - Outstanding Early Childhood Educator Award, reflecting strong connections with families and a commitment to supporting children’s wellbeing in a regional context. 

Leadership and high-quality service delivery

Shelley Carlen from Majorie Mann Lawley Day Care was recognised with the Excellence in Leadership Award for a people-focused approach that has strengthened educator capability and workplace culture. Leadership initiatives, including distributed leadership and educator wellbeing programs, have contributed to sustained improvement and engagement across the service. 

Tall Tree Early Learning Mullaloo received the Service Excellence in Partnerships with Families, Communities and School Award, highlighting a strong commitment to collaborative partnerships that support children’s development and family engagement. 

Nature’s Atelier was awarded Excellence in Best Practice, recognising a holistic and child-centred approach supported by thoughtfully designed learning environments and a focus on ongoing professional growth. 

Supporting children’s development and inclusion

Rose Nowers Early Learning Centre was recognised for Excellence in Supporting Child Development, reflecting an interdisciplinary approach that integrates allied health expertise into everyday learning experiences. This approach supports individual learning styles and strengthens outcomes for children, families and the broader community. 

Tayla Day received the Outstanding Commitment to Reconciliation and Cultural Responsiveness Award, acknowledging leadership in embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives and supporting meaningful cultural competence within the service. 

Majorie Mann Lawley Daycare Centre was awarded Excellence in Outdoor Learning, recognising a curriculum that prioritises children’s connection with the natural environment and supports creativity, inquiry and independent thinking. 

Elevating sector practice

The 2026 WA ECLD Sector Awards highlight the breadth of expertise across Western Australia’s early learning sector, from leadership and pedagogy to inclusion, cultural responsiveness and community partnerships. Collectively, the award recipients demonstrate how intentional teaching, strong relationships and reflective practice contribute to positive outcomes for children and families.

By celebrating these achievements, Child Australia continues to champion the professionalism and capability of the ECEC workforce and reinforce the importance of high‑quality early learning in shaping children’s lifelong development.

The 2026 WA ECLD Sector Awards would not be possible without the support of its partners and sponsors, the Department of Communities, REED WA, Uplyft, Goodstart, CTAS Education, The Gowrie WA, Carewest, 1Place, and Australia Child Care Career Options Pty Ltd.