Early childhood educators across the region recently came together for the Ararat Best Start Workshop Series, a professional development initiative designed to strengthen the local early learning workforce delivered by Federation University.
The recent face-to-face session was attended by six Early Childhood professionals, including early childhood teachers, educators and students interested in building their skills for the future of early learning. Manager of the Early Childhood Improvement Branch Central Highlands Area, Kim Jarvis was also in attendance to support the group on the day.
Also developed by Fed Uni, the program is funded through the Victorian Department of Education's Innovation Grants Program and will continue supporting local educators and services through to the end of 2026.
The Best Start Workshop Series provides free professional development opportunities for educators working across the early childhood sector. With a strong focus on Best Start in Pre-Prep roles, the workshops provide practical strategies and tools that educators can apply immediately in their everyday practice.
Ararat Rural City Council CEO Dr Tim Harrison said the workshop series were an important investment in the region's early childhood workforce.
"The Ararat Best Start Workshop Series is giving local teachers and educators practical tools, new ideas and the confidence to adapt to changes across the sector while continuing to deliver the best possible outcomes for children and families," said Dr Harrison. "To make sure the program reflects the local workforce needs, Council is pleased to help facilitate this program locally on the ground."
The next face-to-face session in the Ararat Best Start Workshop Series will be announced soon, and additional participants are encouraged to register. Additional participants are encouraged to register now for access to the whole online course content and the rest of the face-to-face sessions.
