Victoria Kirkwood Director of Early Learning and Sarah Herbert Head of Children’s Programs were invited to present the Language for Belonging ELC project at the Western Sydney University (WSU) Parramatta campus as guest presenters at their Pre-Service Teacher conference.
“It was a fantastic opportunity to assist in shaping the knowledge of future generations of Early Childhood and Primary School Teachers attending the conference and share the values and philosophy of our School which we are so passionate about.
The Early Learning Centre works with Early Childhood Academics from the University of Sydney and the University of Western Sydney to build reciprocal professional relationships, maintain access to current research and pedagogy and play a role in enhancing high quality education and practical experience for Tertiary Early Childhood students. We are committed to being part of a professional community, playing a role in striving towards better outcomes for all children in Early Education and Care settings,” shares Sarah.
Throughout May and June, the ELC is hosting students from both the University of Sydney and Western Sydney University as part of its commitment to high-quality education and practical experience in the Early Childhood sector. This initiative supports the next generation of early childhood educators while fostering a culture of shared learning and professional collaboration.
Master of Teaching (Early Childhood) students from the University of Sydney, currently studying the Play and Pedagogy in Early Childhood unit, are visiting the Centre across four Tuesday mornings in May. Attending in small groups, the students are engaging in informal observation sessions, gaining insight into how young children interact with play equipment, learning resources and the environment. These visits are helping bridge theory and practice, offering the students firsthand experience in a high-quality, Exceeding-rated Early Childhood Education setting.
At the same time, two pre-service teachers from Western Sydney University are undertaking in-depth Professional Experience placements from Monday 12 May to Monday 23 June. The students are joining the Jungaa and Bundaluk learning spaces, working under the guidance and supervision of experienced ELC educators. All pre-service teachers hold a verified Working With Children Check and have participated in an induction process prior to commencing their placement.
These professional partnerships reflect IGS’s ongoing commitment to contributing to the broader education community and striving toward better outcomes for all children in Early Education and Care settings.