The Early Education Show

Earlier this year, Liam was interviewed by Lecturer Kathrine Whitty for a video to her Masters students at the Australian Catholic University. It was an opportunity to discuss all things early education, including Liam's professional journey in the sector, and Kath and the ACU were kind enough to share the audio of the interview for the Early Education Show. 

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has been tasked with conducting an inquiry into Australia's early education sector. What are they looking at, why does it matter, and what do we hope it will accomplish? Find the full shownotes at earlyeducationshow.com. 

We're back for a new fortnightly series! This week, we're tackling the Federal Government's Early Years Strategy. What is the context of this new strategy, and what do we think it should come up with?

We've been away for a while - but we couldn't let as big a year as 2022 pass without getting the gang back together. We mostly remember how to podcast, but it's been long enough that Liam managed to forget that a microphone only works when it's... plugged in. Apologies for his terrible sound. He promises to do better in 2023.

It's the final episode of Exploring the NQS - a look at the whole thing, and the journey of exploring it element by element. Thanks for everyone who's listened in.

This week's episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS provides an overview of Quality Area 7: Leadership and service management. From the Guide to the National Quality Standard: Quality Area 7 focuses on effective leadership and governance of the service to establish and maintain quality environments for children's learning and development. Effective leaders establish shared values for the service that reflect the service context and professionalism and set clear direction for the service's continuous improvement. Governance refers to the systems in place to support effective management and operation of the service, consistent with the service's statement of philosophy.

This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 7.2.3 of the National Quality Standard, "Development of professionals". Element description: Educators, co-ordinators and staff members' performance is regularly evaluated and individual plans are in place to support learning and development.

This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 7.2.2 of the National Quality Standard, "Educational leadership". Element description: The educational leader is supported and leads the development and implementation of the educational program and assessment and planning cycle.

This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 7.2.1 of the National Quality Standard, "Continuous improvement". Element description: There is an effective self-assessment and quality improvement process in place.

This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 7.1.3 of the National Quality Standard, "Roles and responsibilities". Element description: Roles and responsibilities are clearly defined, and understood, and support effective decision-making and operation of the service.

This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 7.1.2 of the National Quality Standard, "Management systems". Element description: Systems are in place to manage risk and enable the effective management and operation of a quality service.

This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 7.1.1 of the National Quality Standard, "Service philosophy and purpose". Element description: A statement of philosophy guides all aspects of the service's operations.

This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS provides an overview of Quality Area 6: Collaborative partnerships with families and communities. From the Guide to the National Quality Standard: Quality Area 6 focuses on supportive, respectful relationships with families which are fundamental to achieving quality outcomes for children. Community partnerships that are based on active communication, consultation and collaboration also contribute to children's inclusion, learning and wellbeing.

This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 6.2.3 of the National Quality Standard, "Community engagement". Element description: The service builds relationships and engages with its community.

This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 6.2.2 of the National Quality Standard, "Access and participation". Element description: Effective partnerships support children's access, inclusion and participation in the program.

This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 6.2.1 of the National Quality Standard, "Transitions". Element description: Continuity of learning and transitions for each child are supported by sharing information and clarifying responsibilities.

This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 6.1.3 of the National Quality Standard, "Families are supported". Element description: Current information is available to families about the service and relevant community services and resources to support parenting and family wellbeing.

This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 6.1.2 of the National Quality Standard, "Parent views are respected". Element description: The expertise, culture, values and beliefs of families are respected and families share in decision-making about their child's learning and wellbeing.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 6.1.1 of the National Quality Standard, "Engagement with the service". Element description: Families are supported from enrolment to be involved in the service and contribute to service decisions.

This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS provides an overview of Quality Area 5: Relationships with children. From the Guide to the National Quality Standard: Quality Area 5 of the National Quality Standard focuses on educators developing responsive, warm, trusting and respectful relationships with children that promote their wellbeing, self-esteem, sense of security and belonging. Relationships of this kind encourage children to explore the environment and engage in play and learning.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 5.2.2 of the National Quality Standard, "Self-regulation". Element description: Each child is supported to regulate their own behaviour, respond appropriately to the behaviour of others and communicate effectively to resolve conflicts.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 5.2.1 of the National Quality Standard, "Collaborative learning". Element description: Children are supported to collaborate, learn from and help each other.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 5.1.2 of the National Quality Standard, "Dignity and rights of the child". Element description: The dignity and rights of every child are maintained.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 5.1.1 of the National Quality Standard, "Positive educator to child interactions". Element description: Responsive and meaningful interactions build trusting relationships which engage and support each child to feel secure, confident and included.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS provides an overview of Quality Area 4: Staffing arrangements. From the Guide to the National Quality Standard: Quality Area 4 of the National Quality Standard focuses on the provision of qualified and experienced educators who develop warm, respectful relationships with children, create predictable environments and encourage children's active engagement in the learning program. A collaborative and ethical culture where professional standards guide all aspects of practice is critical to a quality service.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 4.2.2 of the National Quality Standard, "Professional standards". Element description: Professional standards guide practice, interactions and relationships.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 4.2.1 of the National Quality Standard, "Professional collaboration". Element description: Management, educators and staff work with mutual respect and collaboratively, and challenge and learn from each other, recognising each other's strengths and skills.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 4.1.2 of the National Quality Standard, "Continuity of staff". Element description: Every effort is made for children to experience continuity of educators at the service.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 4.1.1 of the National Quality Standard, "Organisation of educators". Element description: The organisation of educators across the service supports children's learning and development.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS provides an overview of Quality Area 3: Physical environment. From the Guide to the National Quality Standard: Quality Area 3 of the National Quality Standard focuses on the physical environment. The physical environment is critical to: contributing to children's wellbeing, creativity and developing independence; providing a diverse range of experiences that promote children's learning and development; keeping children safe; and creating/organising spaces to reduce the risk of injury.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 3.2.3 of the National Quality Standard, "Environmentally responsible". Element description: The service cares for the environment and supports children to become environmentally responsible.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 3.2.2 of the National Quality Standard, "Resources support play-based learning". Element description: Resources, materials and equipment allow for multiple uses, are sufficient in number, and enable every child to engage in play-based learning.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 3.2.1 of the National Quality Standard, "Inclusive environment". Element description: Outdoor and indoor spaces are organised and adapted to support every child's participation and to engage every child in quality experiences in both built and natural environments.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 3.1.2 of the National Quality Standard, "Upkeep". Element description: Premises, furniture and equipment are safe, clean and well maintained.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 3.1.1 of the National Quality Standard, "Fit for purpose". Element description: Outdoor and indoor spaces, buildings, fixtures and fittings are suitable for their purpose, including supporting the access of every child.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS provides an overview of Quality Area 2: Children's health and safety. From the Guide to the National Quality Standard: Quality Area 2 of the National Quality Standard reinforces children's right to experience quality education and care in an environment that provides for their health and safety.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 2.2.3 of the National Quality Standard, "Child protection". Element description: Management, educators and staff are aware of their roles and responsibilities to identify and respond to every child at risk of abuse or neglect.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 2.2.2 of the National Quality Standard, "Incident and emergency management". Element description: Plans to effectively manage incidents and emergencies are developed in consultation with relevant authorities, practised and implemented.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This week's episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 2.2.1 of the National Quality Standard, "Supervision". Element description: At all times, reasonable precautions and adequate supervision ensure children are protected from harm and hazard.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 2.1.3 of the National Quality Standard, "Healthy lifestyle". Element description: Healthy eating and physical activity are promoted and appropriate for each child.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 2.1.2 of the National Quality Standard, "Health practices and procedures". Element description: Effective illness and injury management and hygiene practices are promoted and implemented.

This series was originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This week's episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 2.1.1 of the National Quality Standard, "Wellbeing and comfort". Element description: Each child's wellbeing and comfort is provided for, including appropriate opportunities to meet each child's need for sleep, rest and relaxation.

This series were originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS provides an overview of Quality Area 1: Educational program and practice. From the Guide to the National Quality Standard: Quality Area 1 of the National Quality Standard focuses on ensuring that the educational program and practice of educators are child-centred, stimulating and maximise opportunities for enhancing and extending each child's learning and development.

This series were originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 1.3.3 of the National Quality Standard, "Information for families". Element description: Families are informed about the program and their child's progress.

This series were originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 1.3.2 of the National Quality Standard, "Critical reflection". Element description: Critical reflection on children's learning and development, both as individuals and in groups, drives program planning and implementation.

This series were originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 1.3.1 of the National Quality Standard, "Assessment and planning". Element description: Each child's learning and development is assessed or evaluated as part of an ongoing cycle of observation, analysing learning, documentation, planning, implementation and reflection.

This series were originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 1.2.3 of the National Quality Standard, "Child directed learning". Element description: Each child's agency is promoted, enabling them to make choices and decisions that influence events and their world.

This series were originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 1.2.2 of the National Quality Standard, "Responsive teaching and scaffolding". Element description: Educators respond to children's ideas and play and extend children's learning through open-ended questions, interactions and feedback.

This series were originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 1.2.1 of the National Quality Standard, "Intentional teaching". Element description: Educators are deliberate, purposeful, and thoughtful in their decisions and actions.

This series were originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 1.1.3 of the National Quality Standard, "Program learning opportunities". Element description: All aspects of the program, including routines, are organised in ways that maximise opportunities for each child's learning.

This series were originally released in 2018 and 2019 for subscribers on our Patreon page. The episodes are now available freely for all, but have not been edited. This episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast series Exploring the NQS discusses Element 1.1.2 of the National Quality Standard, "Child-centred". Element description: Each child's current knowledge, strengths, ideas, culture, abilities and interests are the foundation of the program.