ECMS Beyond Tomorrow Conference | Selmar Institute of Education

Professional development in early childhood education is something that we are passionate advocates of, and the ECMS Beyond Tomorrow Conference is an excellent example of what childcare services can do as a team to continue to build on their knowledge and skills and stay up to date in the industry.

It all took place on August 17 and featured a program of early childhood experts, leadership and management gurus and inspiring speakers. Plus, this year Selmar and Practical Outcomes came together across two tables at the Beyond Tomorrow Trade Fair.

This year the conference theme was ‘Exceeding Expectations’, focusing on ratings under the National Quality Standard and what is required to create a service that delivers high quality care, effective processes and offers meaningful engagement opportunities for children, families and the community.

Rachael Robertson author of “Leading on the edge” book was the keynote speaker and not only shared her fantastic experience managing a diverse group of up to 120 people but provided real insights on the highs and lows and ups and downs of being an authentic leader. She touched on how early childhood educators can lead without a title and make a difference within the centres.

Jenny Wing, General Manager of Therapeutic Services, member of Australian Childhood Foundation shared her vision and reseach into why early childhood educators play a key role in providing stable and predictable relationships. She shared how we can help vulnerable and traumatised children learn through play.

For us, training educators to have the know-how to provide nothing less than the best early childhood education is of paramount importance and it was exciting to be part of an event with likeminded values.

Along with plenty of incredibly valuable learning for educators from a range of services and experience levels, there was fun to be had too! We rewarded a Gold Class educator with a Gold Class experience, with Belima from Bulldogs Childcare Centre in Footscray taking out the prize!

The ECMS Beyond Tomorrow conference and its attendees were a testament to the enthusiasm of the members of the early childhood sector. When it comes to this meaningful industry, educators, centre owners and directors are all vital to the positive outcomes for young children and attending conferences such as this help you stay engaged and in the know.

If you didn’t make it this year, put the ECMS Beyond Tomorrow conference on your must-attend list for 2019. For more information visit www.ecms.org.au/2018-beyond-tomorrow-conference.