Good Start Early Learning at Tuggerah has been announced as one of nine national finalists in the HESTA Early Childhood Education and Care Awards.
Nominated in the Advancing Pedagogy and Practice category, the centre was acknowledged for its innovative inter-ability program which fosters inclusivity, social skills, and empathy through interactions between neurodiverse individuals and children.
Overall, the program was found to have positively impacted children, families, educators, neurodivergent participants, and the wider community, fostering a culture of inclusion and support.
“Being recognised in the 2024 HESTA Early Childhood Education and Care Awards is an amazing accolade for the power that authentic community partnerships can play in early childhood education and care,” centre director Tearne Martin said.
“It is recognition for the whole team at Good Start Tuggerah and our community partners at AMPEY for being brave and pushing the boundaries to develop a program that truly advocates for understanding, compassion, inclusion and equity for all.”
The awards, which have been running since 2010, recognise the front-line educators and carers at the very heart of Australia’s early childhood education system.
HESTA CEO Debby Blakey congratulated the finalists for their exceptional commitment to the early childhood and education sector and for their impact on children, families and the community.
“Congratulations to all the finalists on their remarkable achievements,” Blakey said.
“Their dedication, passion, and innovative practices are truly inspiring.
“The work they do to educate, care and develop our future generation is of immense importance for children, families and the broader community.
“From building confident young leaders to improving outcomes for First Nations children and families, each finalist has excelled.
“HESTA is a proud partner of the sector, and we’re thrilled to champion these amazing educators and carers for their vital role in society.”
An independent judging panel comprising sector representatives reviewed many outstanding nominations to select finalists across the Advancing Pedagogy and Practice, Outstanding Service, and Individual Leadership categories.
Long-time awards sponsor ME (a subsidiary of Bank of Queensland – BOQ) has provided a total of $30,000 in prize money, which will be split equally between the three winners and used for professional or team development or to improve workplace services or processes.
BOQ Group Executive of Retail Banking Greg Boyle congratulated and thanked this year’s finalists.
“A big congratulations to this year’s finalists,” Boyle said.
“On behalf of ME, I extend my thanks for your dedication, passion, and hard work in guiding and nurturing Australia’s future generations.”
HESTA will announce the winners at a dinner in Brisbane on Thursday, September 19.