Early Childhood Team Form a Community of Practice

Box Hill Institute’s Early Childhood and Education and Care team has launched its Community of Practice consisting of Box Hill Institute staff and representatives from six early childhood and kindergarten providers. The group has been established to strengthen the sector through collaboration, innovation and education. 

In the Community of Practise meeting, chaired by Early Childhood Education and Care Coordinator Janine Johnston and Kerryn Puckey, a range of topics were discussed including teaching strategies; professional development and micro-credentialling; the impact of COVID-19 on the sector and how centres have adapted; preparing students for employment; and the use of apps to communicate to parents. 

Janine said the Community of Practice, in partnership with industry, will allow Box Hill Institute to be at the forefront of innovation and leadership in early childhood vocational education. She said, “Box Hill Institute’s strong industry connections provides students the confidence that their training is up-to-date, relevant and meeting industry standards, and that it supports to create meaningful pathways to employment.”

Following the meeting, Michelle Bartlett, Director of Greythorn Early Childhood Centre and Kindergarten shared her experience on the partnership and wrote in to say, “We have partnered with Box Hill Institute consistently over many years and will continue to do so. They provide excellent support to their students, and always listen to feedback we have to offer regarding their students and their progress. The variety of ways students can access training makes learning very achievable.” 

After the first meeting, Box Hill Institute was approached by another six early childhood services who are also keen to join the Community of Practice and work together to create best outcomes for our students and the early childhood profession.