The event also featured a keynote address by Dr. Red Ruby Scarlett, a highly regarded educator, researcher, and advocate for leadership in Early Childhood Education. Dr. Scarlett’s inspiring talk resonated with attendees, highlighting the importance of collaboration and innovative thinking in addressing sector-wide challenges.
“Support for educational leaders is a critical factor in sustaining a culture of professional learning among staff in early childhood education settings,” Senior Holmesglen Education Lecturer Dr Mary Hughes said.
“It is leaders who have the skills and attributes needed to build a learning community within the context of the setting,” Dr Hughes said.
“Effective leadership in early childhood education involves a collaborative approach with others in the setting. It is important for leaders to know how to have ‘heartfelt’ and ‘hardline’ conversations where necessary, and advocate when required, whether in their interactions with colleagues or parents, families and carers.”
For Dr Hughes, the importance of the emotional aspects of Educational Leadership ‘cannot be overstated’ when it comes to building respect, trust and collegiality within the early childhood context.
“Care and consideration in the workplace are key factors in supporting the wellbeing of staff members,” she said.
Meghan Dougherty, Kindergarten Improvement Advisor for the Department of Education's Early Childhood Improvement Branch shared similar views on how leadership can influence team culture and provide psychologically safe workspaces.
“How do you feel about approaching management about a mistake you made? This is fundamentally important for retention. Communicating a shared vision and how your staff are contributing and looking after their wellbeing is important to minimise wellbeing” she Dougherty said.
The summit underscored the need for systemic solutions to the retention crisis, including better support for leaders, who play a pivotal role in creating sustainable, supportive, and inclusive environments for their teams.
Holmesglen Institute’s In Focus Series aims to bring together industry professionals to address critical issues, share expertise, and develop actionable solutions. This inaugural event marks the start of ongoing collaboration to strengthen the early childhood education and care sector.
