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What is ARACY and how can The Nest support early childhood services
The Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth (ARACY) has shaped the national conversation on child and youth wellbeing for more than two decades. Its flagship Nest Wellbeing Framework is increasingly used by organisations to align strategy, measure outcomes and strengthen collaboration.
2026-01-28 08:00:55
by Fiona Alston
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Is induction the answer to keeping early career teachers in the profession
Induction of early career teachers (ECTs), the structured support provided in the early years after qualification, has long been promoted as a key strategy for improving teacher retention. As Australia continues to grapple with workforce shortages and a high turnover of novice teachers, the question of whether induction can genuinely improve retention is gaining renewed attention from researchers and educators alike.
2026-01-28 07:45:21
by Fiona Alston
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Ratios versus environments: Why ECEC quality reform must treat staffing and space as one system
Educator-to-child ratios are one of the most visible signals of quality in early childhood education and care (ECEC). They set expectations for supervision, safety and responsiveness. They also shape what educators can realistically deliver across a long day: sustained interactions, intentional teaching, inclusion, documentation and partnerships with families.
2026-01-28 07:30:13
by Fiona Alston
Quality
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Active zones and mini-retreats: Designing preschools that support neurodivergent children
Inclusive preschool and long day care environments play a central role in children’s engagement, wellbeing and smooth transitions into school. Emerging research suggests that when environments are designed to reduce sensory stress and increase children’s choice, participation improves, not only for neurodivergent children, but for every child.
2026-01-27 08:15:49
by Fiona Alston
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Australia Day Honours 2026: Two early childhood leaders recognised nationally
Two long-time contributors to early childhood education have been recognised in the Australia Day 2026 Honours List, highlighting the national impact of work that often happens quietly, in services, research settings and community organisations.
2026-01-27 07:00:00
by Fiona Alston
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Victorian Parliament releases key paper on child safety and reform in ECEC
2026-01-23 09:52:28
by Fiona Alston
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Australia Day Honours 2026: Two early childhood leaders recognised nationally
2026-01-27 07:00:00
by Fiona Alston
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CEO Annie Bryce steps down from leading Edge Early Learning
2026-01-27 07:15:02
by Fiona Alston
