The Australian Early Childhood Context

It is essential for all early childhood teachers to have deep knowledge and understanding of the Australian Early Childhood context. This subject provides a comprehensive analysis of the role of government and of relevant research that is indicative of the importance of early childhood education. Contemporary curriculum and legislative documents/frameworks will be examined with particular emphasis on relevant approved learning frameworks and curriculum documents. Teacher Education Students (TES) will be introduced to a wide range of documentation to enhance teaching practice and learning outcomes for students. The aim of this subject is to build TES’ knowledge of the key role Early Childhood provides in contemporary Australian society and build the capacity to transfer this knowledge into practice.

Quick Info

Currently offered by Alphacrucis: Yes
Course code: EDU131
Credit points: 10
Subject coordinator: Michael Parzakonis

Awards offering The Australian Early Childhood Context

This unit is offered as a part of the following awards:

Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary)

Unit Content

Curriculum Objective

Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

ACECQA Curriculum Specification

Demonstrate an understanding of the history of the Australian Early Childhood sector and the broader international development and Christian Education context.

Child development and care: 1.1

Teaching pedagogies:

2.1, 2.2. 2.7

Articulate compliance requirements and legislative responsibilities within the context of early childhood education in Australia, to demonstrate understanding of Educator responsibilities under the National Law and Regulations for application in daily practice.

History and philosophy of early childhood: 5.1

Analyse and discuss how current Australian Frameworks, legislation, policies and procedures contribute to supporting children’s learning outcomes, safety and the quality of Early Childhood Education.

Teaching pedagogies:

2.2

Education and curriculum studies:

3.1, 3.9 History and philosophy of early childhood: 5.3

Early childhood professional practice : 6.4

Identify and discuss the standards and practices which support the achievement of children’s learning outcomes and the promotion of collaborative leadership and teamwork.

Teaching pedagogies:

2.1, 2.2, 2.4, 2.7

Family and community contexts: 4.1

Articulate a historically reflective, professional, and informed approach to teaching in an Early Childhood Education and Care context in Australia within a biblical worldview perspective.

Education and curriculum studies:

3.1, 3.8

Subject Content

Week	Content
1	Histories and philosophies of Early Childhood Education in Australia Importance of History and philosophy in Early Childhood Education Philosophies, theories, and theorists who have shaped theories about children and children’s learning, curriculum development and the role of the teacher. Curriculum Approaches – Froebel, Montessori, Vygotsky, Piaget, Erikson, Steiner, Reggio Emilia, Dewey Christian schooling and impact on Early Childhood internationally and within the Australian context.
2	The Role of the Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments and Providers in Early Childhood Education and Care Early Childhood development and policy in an international context Accessibility – children's participation in early years provision Workforce Curriculum and pedagogy Inspection and regulation Data, Reports and Recommendations – Global report on early childhood and education (ECCE) UNESCO and UNICEF Social Justice in provision of Early Childhood Education and Care in a global context Sustainable Development Goals Historical involvement of Commonwealth Government involvement in Early Childhood Education and Care in Australia Affordability and Funding Provision Planning and Access Workforce Quality and Regulation 2020 National Partnership Agreement The Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) Child Care Subsidy Grants Preschool Programs State and Territory Governments Administration of the National Quality Framework Monitoring and enforcing compliance with National Laws and National Regulations Safety, Health, and Well Being of Children Educational and Developmental Outcomes Continuous Improvement in Education and Care services Providers and Services
3	Defining Early Childhood Education and Care Social, physical, emotional, personal, creative, and cognitive learning in children Approved Learning Framework Roles and Responsibilities in Early Childhood Education and Care: Early Childhood Teachers Early Childhood Educators Educational leaders Support staff – cooks, cleaners. Directors, Coordinators and Managers
4	Benefits of Early Childhood Education and Care Children’s outcomes later in life in health, education, and employment Foundations of lifelong development and learning and trajectories Access for parents and carers to work, train, study and volunteers. Benefits to the Australian economy
5	The National Quality Framework What is the NQF? National Quality Standard Guide to the NQF National Law and Regulations Approved Learning Frameworks
6	Compliance and Standard Requirements in Early Childhood Education and Care in Australia Compliance with Legislation Proactive compliance monitoring by the Regulatory Authority Complaints and Notifications Monitoring compliance as part of quality ratings assessments Investigations following identification of compliance matters. Addressing non-compliance
7	Roles and Responsibilities under the National Law and Regulations Approved Provider Nominated Supervisor Persons with Management or Control Responsible persons Educational Leader Person in day-to-day Charge
8	National Quality Standard Requirements in Early Childhood Education and Care in Australia National Benchmark for Early Childhood Education and Care Quality Area 1 – Educational program and practice Quality Area 2 – Children's health and safety Quality Area 3 – Physical environment Quality Area 4 – Staffing arrangements. Quality Area 5 – Relationships with children Quality Area 6 – Collaborative partnerships with families and communities Quality Area 7 – Governance and leadership
9	Belonging, Being and Becoming – The Approved Learning Framework for Australia (EYLF V2.0) The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia V2.0, 2022. A Vision for Children’s Learning Elements of the Early Years Learning Framework Early Childhood Pedagogy Principles Practices The Early Years Learning Framework Planning Cycle Learning outcomes Glossary of Terms
10	The Australian Professional Standards for Teachers Organisation of the Standards Professional Knowledge Professional Practice Professional Engagement Glossary
11	Collaborative Teamwork and Leadership Strategies and Practices Links to the National Quality Standards Professional and respectful communication Critical team reflection Contribution to curriculum decisions and Quality Improvement Plan Shared responsibility Collaboration and ethical practice Professional knowledge, strengths, and skills -
12	Risk Assessment, Active Supervision and Quality Provision of Early Childhood Education and Care in Australia Links to the National Quality Standards, Legislative requirements, and national regulations Active supervision and teaching strategies Supervision Requirements and approaches to supervision Teamwork and communication Educator to child ratios Qualification requirements Safe sleep and rest Safe transportation of children Excursions Child protection ACECQA Risk Assessment and Management tool

This course may be offered in the following formats

Face to face on site (extensive)

E-learning (online/asynchronous)

E-learning (online/synchronous)

Please consult your course prospectus or enquire about how and when this course will be offered next at Alphacrucis University College.

Assessment Methods

Assessment Overview
Assessment Type	Outcomes	Weighting	Assessment Date
Creative Project	1-5	20% (Item + 800 words)	Week 4
Case Study (Report Analysis – Viva Voce)	1-5	20% (10 minutes)	Week 7
Minor Essay	1,3,4	20% (1000 words)	Week 9
Exam	1-5	40%	Week 12

Prescribed Text

References will include the most current curriculum requirements for schools.